The softball team won 6-1 over the American River College Beavers in their last regular season game on Thursday.
Sophomore outfielder Imani Black said the team played a good all-around game.
“Today’s game went really good,” Black said. “We played as a team, we got our outs and were able to collect hits altogether.”
It was sophomore day, which featured a post-game ceremony that celebrated all of the sophomore players for their contributions to the team.
Head coach Kristy Schroeder said it was good to see the sophomores be recognized for all the work they have put in this season.
“You always want to celebrate the people who come and play hard for you and love the game,” Schroeder said. “So it was a nice day to focus on the sophomores.”
The Hawks offense got on the board early with an RBI single from sophomore catcher Alexis Hoke.
In the third inning, the Hawks took advantage of defensive miscues from the Beavers. Sophomore utility player Ashley Garcia stole home, and Hoke came around to score on a throwing error after stealing third.
The Hawks added on in the fifth inning when sophomore Imani Black hit a two-run home run.
Black said the win was important because the team had not been playing as well recently.
“It felt really good because we’ve been struggling lately,” Black said. “It felt good to have a team win and pull together.”
Hawks sophomore starting pitcher Xotchi Atayde threw a complete game, only giving up one run and striking out two.
Atayde said the defense behind her was strong and that the team had good energy throughout the game.
“They all really had my back today, and it was super fun to see everyone getting excited over little plays,” Atayde said.
The Hawks finished the regular season with a record of 23-16 and now look to the playoffs.
Schroeder said playing with high energy and enthusiasm is key heading into the playoffs.
“Hopefully, we’ll come out and play with some fun energy because that’s when we play the best,” Schroeder said.
The Hawks’ next game is the first round of the playoffs at Cabrillo College. The first game will be on Friday at 2 p.m. and the second game will be on Saturday at 12 p.m.