State Bound! ADM Softball Powers Past Winterset

The ADM Softball team secured their place in the state tournament for the fourth consecutive year with a decisive 6-0 victory over Winterset on Tuesday evening at the ADM High School field.

The game remained tightly contested through the first five innings, with both teams battling to break the scoreless deadlock. ADM's Kaylee Smith nearly put her team ahead early in the first inning with a deep hit that was caught at the fence by Winterset's Natalie Smith, denying a potential three-run homer.  In the top of the fifth inning, Winterset threatened with the bases loaded, but ADM's defense held firm. A sharp hit by Karlee Akers seemed destined to score Molly Breeding, but a heads-up play by ADM's Olivia Wyant and Ellis Smith at third base resulted in a crucial force out, extinguishing the Huskies' scoring opportunity.  The Tigers finally broke the stalemate in the bottom of the fifth inning when Aleah Johnson led off with a double and later scored on a clutch RBI single by Cameran Smith, giving ADM a 1-0 lead.

ADM's offense exploded in the sixth inning, adding five more runs to secure the victory. Ellis Smith's leadoff walk and subsequent stolen bases set the stage for Johnson's RBI single, extending ADM's lead to 2-0. Aniston Tollari then delivered a decisive blow with a two-run home run, highlighting her power and pushing the Tigers' lead to 4-0. Cameran Smith drew a walk, setting the stage for Lauren Hagedorn, who launched her 12th home run of the season, a two-run shot that capped ADM's scoring at 6-0.

On the pitching mound, ADM's Lauren Hagedorn was outstanding, pitching a complete game shutout. She allowed only one hit, walked three batters, and struck out eight, stifling Winterset's offense and setting the tone for ADM's victory.

With the win, ADM claims the Class 4A Region 4 Championship and advances to the state tournament in Fort Dodge, beginning next Monday. The Tigers' journey continues as they aim to build on their success and compete for the state title.

STATE TOURNAMENT CENTRAL

ADM will face Fort Dodge on Monday, July 22nd at Harlan Rogers Sports Complex in Fort Dodge staring at 5:15 pm.  The game will be played at Iowa Central Field.  For a complete bracket visitng the following site:  State Brackets

State Shirts - Order By Noon on Wednesday, July 17th at: https://t.co/QtXEbRkxwO

Ticket Prices - $15 (includes parking) and must be purchased online only at: https://www.gobound.com/ia/ighsau/softball/2023-24/tickets

For. complete details on the IGHSAU state softball tournament - visit: https://www.ighsau.org/news/2024-softball-tournament-central/