Mendon Softball Team Advances to State Finals with Strong Pitching and Defense

EAST LANSING — As the Mendon softball team prepares for their state finals appearance, five senior players are set to conclude their high school careers. This group has already made history as the most successful in Mendon's history, and they aim to add one more victory to their impressive record. For these seniors, there’s no better way to wrap up their time than at the MHSAA state finals, marking their fourth consecutive year competing at Secchia Stadium on the Michigan State University campus.

On Friday, Mendon triumphed over Hillman with a close score of 2-1, showcasing exceptional pitching and defensive skills. The Hornets, who are the defending state champions and ranked first in the final Michigan High School Softball Coaches Association poll, are now on the hunt for back-to-back titles. "I'm honestly super grateful to play in a state title game again... But I'm happy we were able to get to this point again," shared senior second baseman Brooke Gerth.

The game started positively for Mendon, with Jadyn Samson reaching base on an error and later scoring on an RBI single from Cienna Nightingale. This initial run proved crucial as the teams battled through the first three innings without further scoring. Despite a challenging offensive performance, with Hillman’s Gretchen Weiland striking out 14 Hornet batters, Mendon managed to extend their lead in the fourth inning when Nightingale tripled and scored on a groundout by Sabrina Monroy.

Mendon’s pitcher, Rowan Allen, delivered an impressive performance, striking out eight hitters and allowing only one unearned run. As the game approached its climax, Allen remained focused, stating, "I really don't think of who is up to bat... I want to throw my best stuff to everyone." Her calm demeanor under pressure helped secure the win as she fanned two of the last three batters.

Mendon’s co-coach, Mike Smith, expressed confidence in his team, particularly in Allen’s abilities, calling her "the best pitcher in D4." The Hornets are set to face Brown City, who defeated Fowler 7-1, in the state final at 5:30 p.m. on Saturday. With their sights set on another championship, Smith declared, "We're gonna try to do it again," while Allen emphasized the team's eagerness to compete. "I'm just so happy I could end it here with this group. It's a surreal feeling," she noted.