The 16u Tier 3 State Champions. Back row: Coach Travis Richert, Brooklyn Sturm, Brenna Pabst, Becca Kuck, Courtlyn Runck, Jalivia Richert, Coach Dustin Hauschild. Front row: Kyliey Hauschild, Jaeli Richert, Astrid Ramirez, Rachel Beadell, Alyssa Ulrich (not pictured: Madyson Digmann). Photo contributed.

Fall Ball State Softball Champions

During the final weekend of September local softball team, Springfield 16u, participated in the Fall Ball State Softball Tournament, clinching the title of 16u Tier 3 State Champions. Playing in Minnetrista, the team beat Cottage Grove (5-3) in the quarter finals, St. Anthony (2-1) in the semifinals, and Spring Lake Park (5-2) in the championship game. 

Coach Travis Richert spoke of his team after the tournament saying, “These girls are a very dedicated group. The girls and parents devote many weekends to playing softball. Most girls work on their pitching and batting in the off season. We have two girls from Minnesota Valley Luthern who play with us. They are a great addition to our team.” Over the past season, the girls improved greatly in their defense and pitching. 

“The girls had three double plays this weekend. These girls know the game and what to do in different situations. They’ve always been a good hitting team,” said Richert. 

The coach is very  impressed with how the team has handled close games and stressful situations. “All of these girls are very coachable and catch on to advice quickly. This group will be fun to watch in the future,” concluded Richert. 

Springfield Advance-Press

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