The Augustana softball team split its doubleheader on Saturday against CCIW foe Elmhurst, moving the Vikings’ overall record to 15-7 on the season and 2-2 in conference play.
Augie, led by sophomore infielder Alyssa Klahn’s two hits and four RBIs, recorded a 12-2 win over Elmhurst in the first contest of the day. Elmhurst responded and came out victorious in the second game by a score of 5-2.
“The first game we came out very strong, and everyone in the lineup was hitting,” Klahn said. “But, the second game, Elmhurst threw a pitcher that had a different style than the first, and we were unable to make all the adjustments we needed to. All of our pitchers in both games did phenomenally, but Elmhurst made a better adjustment in the second game, which allowed them to take the win.”
After a disappointing season last year, only winning 14 of 36 contests, Klahn is pleased with how the season has transpired thus far. With 16 games still remaining in the regular season, the Vikings have already passed last season’s win total.
“This has been an exciting season so far,” Klahn said. “Every single girl on the team is giving 100 percent during practice, along with doing extra work outside of practices. We have such a strong team, but the best part about this team is that we have fun. The team makes it easy to relax, laugh, and have fun while playing, which has helped our performance.”
One negative of the season, however, has been the inconsistent weather. The Viking’s doubleheader against Monmouth on Sunday was postponed due to inclement weather.
Aside from cancellations and postponements,  the colder than normal temperatures have made it difficult for the team to get into a consistent routine.
“Even though the weather hasn’t been the best so far, our team is definitely showing its strength by being able to practice and play through this freezing weather,” sophomore outfielder Dina Falk said. “It has been difficult at times, but we have handled the cold very well by staying focused and going into each practice and game with a great mentality.”
As Augie heads into the heart of the CCIW portion of its schedule, Falk is hoping to see more consistency from her and her teammates, which she believes can propel them to a deep postseason run.
“I hope to see our team keep playing with the same intensity we have now, and keep doing things the way we have so far,” she said. “If we do that, I think we can reach our goal of winning the CCIW tournament.”
Augustana will host a doubleheader against Millikin at Carver Field on Wednesday. The Vikings will then be on the road to play doubleheaders at Carthage on Saturday and Carroll on Sunday.
 
Photo above: First-year Molly Wrenn steps up to bat for the Vikings. Wrenn got two runs for Augustana in their game against Elmhurst. Photo by Tony Dzik.