One step away from elusive softball title

by Peter Jakey—Managing Editor

A couple of five-run inning rallies and crisp defense propelled the Huron softball team to the Division 4 state title game.

The Lady Hurons (33-6) defeated Fowler 11-1 in five innings in Friday’s state semifinal and now are matched up with the 2013 state champs, Kalamazoo Christian, the team that downed the Hurons in last year’s state semifinals, 2-0.

Morgan Hall was 3-for-3 and drove in three, while Cassie Brege was 2-for-3 with three RBI.

“It feels so unreal,” said Brege, when asked what she thinks about playing in the title game. “We made it to this point last year. To get over that hurdle, it’s the best feeling.”

“I though we played great defense and then we started hitting,” said Huron coach Karl Grambau, who gets his second title shot. The first was 10 years ago with the “Cardiac Kids.”

The Hurons got bunts down, ran the bases hard, and when Eagle starter Sydney Feldpausch became wild, they were patient at the plate.

Rogers City outhit Fowler, 11-5.

“It was a real good day for Huron softball,” said Grambau.

The Hurons already are guaranteed at least a state runner-up trophy, but this year’s team wants to become the first to bring home the state title trophy. This will be the program’s third title game since 2001.

“The girls are all playing so well right now,” said Grambau. “It’s been a true team effort.”

Kalamazoo Christian won its semifinal game, 6-1, over Vestaburg.

Game time Saturday is 5:30 p.m. at Secchia Stadium at Michigan State University.