Mars Hill downed by SWU

Mars Hill downed by SWU
February 26, 2025

MARS HILL, N.C. - The Mars Hill softball team (7-9) was defeated by Southern Wesleyan (11-1) in both games of their Wednesday doubleheader, falling by scores of 8-3 and 12-4.

GAME ONE: SWU 8, MHU 3

In the first game, Mars Hill struck early, taking a 3-0 lead in the first inning thanks to a three-run homer from Maia Sholter.
 
However, Southern Wesleyan quickly responded, scoring five runs in the second inning, highlighted by a three-run homer from Olivia Haag. The Southern Wesleyan offense continued to roll, adding more runs in the third and sixth innings to secure the win.
 
Olivia Haag, who was strong both at the plate and in the circle, allowed just three runs while striking out seven.
 
GAME TWO: SWU 12, MHU 4 - 5 Innings
 
In the second game, Southern Wesleyan's offense exploded with 12 runs.
 
After jumping to a 2-0 lead in the first inning, the Warriors broke open the game in the fourth with five runs, including home runs from Avery Mercer and Abby Schreiner, and key singles from Amberley Way and Madison Truett. They added another five-run inning in the fifth, with Mercer delivering another two-run homer and Megan Ware contributing a RBI single.
 
Mars Hill did mount a rally, with Brooke Hanson hitting a solo home run in the third and the team adding three runs in the fifth with hits from Farley Park, Hanson, and a sacrifice fly from Camryn Sterling.
 
However, Southern Wesleyan's consistent offense and Chloe Smith's strong pitching performance, where she struck out eight and allowed just three hits in five innings, kept Mars Hill from mounting a comeback.
Southern Wesleyan's offense was led by Mercer, who drove in five RBIs and went 3-for-4 with two home runs in the second game.
 
The Lions return to Ponder Field on Friday, February 28 when they host UNC Pembroke. First pitch is set for 1 p.m.