The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater softball team hosted a doubleheader against Augustana April 7.
The Warhawks opened the day with a 5-3 win, breaking the game open with a four-run third inning that proved to be the difference. In game two, Whitewater battled into extra innings but ultimately came up short 6-5.
(Charlie Clark)
Head coach Brenda Volk credited her team’s energy as a key factor throughout both games, especially in challenging weather conditions.
“I thought our energy was pretty good today, especially as we got going,” Volk said. “It’s tough to play in these conditions when it gets cold, but they have good confidence on the plate and swing the bats well.”
Whitewater’s offense capitalized on opportunities early in game one, applying pressure to Augustana’s defense and taking advantage of key moments to build a lead they would not give up.
At the top of the lineup, Bella Eggert helped set the tone. The center fielder consistently worked to get on base and adjust to different pitching throughout the doubleheader.
“It definitely took some time to adjust,” Eggert said. “The second pitcher had more pace on the pitch, which is great because that’s a speed we’re going to see in conference, so it was good to get the chance to adjust to that.”
Defensively, Whitewater made several key plays throughout the day, including strong infield work that helped limit Augustana’s momentum. Freshman infielder Grace Grabowy contributed on both sides of the ball, recording an RBI while also making key plays at third base.
“I think knowing my teammates were doing their job helped me stay locked in,” Grabowy said.
Game two shifted into a back-and-forth battle, with both teams trading runs before heading into extra innings. Despite the cold conditions, Whitewater stayed competitive, continuing to put runners on base and make plays defensively to extend the game. The game came down to a ball that could not be fielded, as Augustana hit an eventual game-winning home run in the top of the eighth.
The conditions added another layer to the challenge, forcing players to stay mentally engaged throughout both contests.
“It takes a lot of mental toughness,” Eggert said.
Whitewater’s approach at the plate remained aggressive throughout the doubleheader, focusing on attacking pitches while maintaining discipline.
“We want a ‘yes, yes’ mindset. You are ready to swing every pitch until you are not,” Eggert said.
The defense emphasized limiting mistakes and maintaining communication, especially during tight moments late in games.
Through both contests, Whitewater relied on energy and team chemistry, staying competitive across all innings.
The Warhawks will look to build on that effort as the season continues, carrying momentum from a strong game one performance and the resilience shown in game two.
Whitewater is back in action April 15 when they host UW-Stevens Point.
