Lincoln Trail Softball Goes 9-0 at Fast Pitch Dreams Spring Classic
The Lincoln Trail College Softball team delivered an incredible performance at the Fast Pitch Dreams Spring Classic in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, going 9-0 over five days of competition. The team showed outstanding chemistry, strong defense, and dominant pitching throughout the week.
"We have great team chemistry," said Head Coach Erica Arnold. "The players work well together and hold each other accountable. They are an extremely coachable group!"
Coach Arnold emphasized how the week served as key preparation for the spring season. "When our players returned from winter break, we discussed our schedule and how we would need to stay locked in for the whole week. They really did a great job of that. They understood what we were there for and came to play every day."
Game Recaps
Monday, March 4
Game 1: Lincoln Trail 6, Monroe Community College 0
The Statesmen used a big fourth inning to pull ahead, scoring four runs behind timely hits from Kyndal Brewer, Kaydence Woodsmall, and Lexi Grindstaff. On the mound, Elise Lampert threw a complete-game shutout with eight strikeouts, setting the tone for the week.
Game 2: Lincoln Trail 13, Fayetteville Technical Community College 1
Lincoln Trail came out hot with seven runs in the first inning, led by Jaycee Phillips' three-run double. The team also stole 13 bases, showing their speed and aggressiveness on the bases. Brewer pitched effectively, keeping Fayetteville from mounting any momentum.
"Everyone on the team contributed in some way," Coach Arnold noted. "Our pitching staff did a phenomenal job on the mound. Defense was on point and our offense executed well."
Tuesday, March 5
Game 3: Lincoln Trail 11, Lackawanna College 2
A strong six-run fourth inning gave Lincoln Trail control of the game. Elahna Perry had a multi-hit game, and Lampert remained steady in the circle to shut down any comeback attempts.
Game 4: Lincoln Trail 11, Frederick Community College 3
Trailing early, the Statesmen rallied behind a big fifth inning, scoring five runs. Brewer kept the game in control from the mound as the offense surged ahead to seal another win.
Wednesday, March 6
Game 5: Lincoln Trail 1, Southern Maine Community College 0
This defensive battle saw Lincoln Trail score early and hold strong. Brewer pitched five shutout innings, and Lampert closed the final two. The game ended on a perfectly executed double play, showcasing the team's defensive sharpness.
"Our goal this season is to take things day by day," Coach Arnold said. "We want to continue to get better every day."
Note: Game 6 was canceled due to rain.
Thursday, March 7
Game 7: Lincoln Trail 8, Schoolcraft College 0
The offense sparked with five runs in the second inning, including a three-run single by Woodsmall and a solo home run by Bailey Duke. Lampert pitched another strong outing, keeping Schoolcraft scoreless throughout.
Game 8: Lincoln Trail 8, Lackawanna College 1
Woodsmall and Baleigh Adams each had two RBIs. Brewer struck out nine batters, delivering one of her strongest performances of the week while the offense kept applying pressure.
Friday, March 8
Game 9: Lincoln Trail 3, Delta College 2
Lincoln Trail pushed ahead with a three-run fourth inning, and Lampert pitched a complete game with eight strikeouts, keeping the team in control from start to finish.
Game 10: Lincoln Trail 7, Harford Community College 0
The team closed out the week with a shutout victory. Brewer was dominant on the mound once again, and also added two RBIs at the plate. Grindstaff led the offense with three hits.
"I'm so proud of our players," said Coach Arnold. "They played hard and played for each other. I think our players really enjoyed their time in Myrtle Beach. We also had so many families there supporting our players. We were so thankful for that!"
Photos in this release were taken by Beth Luckett.