The Pella High School softball team achieved a stunning victory by defeating the defending state champion Carlisle in a regional semifinal on March 15, 2024. The match, which ended with a score of 1-0, showcased the team’s resilience and skill, as highlighted during the live coverage on 92.1 KRLS.
In the decisive game, Emma Eekhoff led the charge for Pella, hitting a leadoff home run that proved to be the only run the team needed. Eekhoff also excelled as the pitcher, delivering a complete game shutout where she limited Carlisle to just four hits, striking out five batters and walking one. Her performance was complemented by a strong defensive effort, particularly from catcher Lucy Carlson, who made a significant impact by throwing out two potential base stealers in the first inning.
Eekhoff reflected on the emotional weight of the game, stating, “I have played with a lot of these Carlisle girls for a really long time, so I knew going into tonight it was going to be an emotional night for me either way. I’m just really proud of us, I’m proud of the team and I’m so proud of my defense for backing me up the whole night. It’s mixed emotions right now, but overall happy. I’m happy to have a couple more days with the team at least.”
With this victory, Pella improved its season record to 21-12 and will host Gilbert in the regional final on Tuesday night. Gilbert also pulled off an upset, defeating Grinnell 9-3 in their semifinal matchup.
On the baseball side, Pella’s team, ranked second, opened their postseason with an emphatic 8-0 victory over Keokuk. The Dutch scored in each of the first four innings, dominating the game from start to finish. Nathan Carey shone in this match, going two-for-two with a double and a triple among six extra-base hits for the team. Carey also excelled on the mound, pitching 5.2 innings while allowing just two hits and striking out an impressive 12 batters.
Pella’s baseball team now holds a record of 25-6 and will face Fairfield in the district final on Monday night. The first pitch is scheduled for 19:00, with pregame coverage beginning at 18:45 on the KRLS2 stream and Pella Dutch Live.
As both teams look to build on their successes, the community eagerly anticipates what lies ahead in the playoffs.