The Lady Elks Varsity Softball team recently concluded their trip to Pigeon Forge, participating in the highly competitive Cal Ripken Spring Training Event. The Lady Elks showcased their prowess on the field, securing a perfect 3-0 record during the tournament.

The journey continued on Friday with the Lady Elks entering the day with a 1-0 record. They faced off against Jefferson County High School from Tennessee and delivered an impressive performance, defeating their opponents with a commanding score of 7-0.

Leading the charge for the Lady Elks were standout players such as Senior Ardyn Hopf, who went 2 for 2 with 2 home runs and 4 RBIs, Senior Hayley Arnold contributing with a triple, Senior Allison McGuire also hitting a triple, and Junior Sloane Stilwell adding a home run and 2 RBIs to the team's tally. Senior Ally Middleton showcased her pitching prowess with an outstanding performance, recording 15 strikeouts and allowing just 1 hit, securing the win on the mound for the Lady Elks.

On Saturday, the Lady Elks continued their winning streak by defeating Western Brown High School from Ohio with a final score of 12-6. Senior Ardyn Hopf delivered a stellar performance, going 4 for 4 and hitting for the cycle, showcasing her versatility and skill at the plate. The Lady Elks' offense was firing on all cylinders, with 8 different players contributing to a total of 15 hits and 7 players securing RBIs. Senior Hayley Arnold and Senior Ally Middleton led the pitching efforts, with Arnold recording 7 strikeouts for the win and Middleton earning the save with 5 strikeouts.

The JV team beat Salem, OH 20-4 on Friday and lost to Marcellus, NY varsity team 8-4 on Saturday. The JV team went 1-2 at the event.

As the Lady Elks return home, they are set to continue their season with determination and confidence. Weather permitting, both the Varsity and Junior Varsity teams will be back in action this week. The Junior Varsity team is scheduled to play Beavercreek at home on Monday, April 1st at 5 pm. On Tuesday, April 2nd, the Varsity team will host Kings at 5 pm, while the Junior Varsity team will travel to Kings for a 5 pm game.

The Lady Elks' impressive performance at the Cal Ripken Spring Training Event serves as a testament to their dedication, teamwork, and skill on the softball diamond, promising an exciting season ahead for players and fans alike.