The Bridgeport High School softball season came to an end Tuesday evening as the Lady Indians fell 12-4 to Herbert Hoover, the second in the best-of-three series which determined the Class AA Region II championship team.

 

Played at the Huskies’ home field in Clendenin, the game started off favorably for BHS. Emily Riggs hit a homer in the first, also bringing in leadoff hitter Taylor Smith who took a base on error. Kate Stanley thereafter smacked a double, driving in a run and giving the Indians an early 3-0 lead.

 

It was then that the Huskies switched up their pitcher, putting in Delani Buckner, who had tossed the night before, picking up Herbert Hoover’s first win over BHS in the series.

 

“We started off fast scoring three runs, but defense committed to many errors, allowing them some easy runs and tying the game,” said Assistant Coach Chuck Carr. “The girls fought hard, but (the Huskies) just had too much fire power.”

 

Down 11-3 in the fourth, the Indians scored when Smith hit a single and drove in Lauren Riffle. Riffle and Payton Merica had also hit singles; Merica being left on base.

 

Carr said Herbert Hoover hit extremely well and credited Buckner as being one of the best freshman pitchers in the state.

 

“My hat’s off to them - and we wish them well,” he said.

 

Pitching Tuesday and most of the season was senior Abby Strait, who according to Coach Larry "Rabbit" Snider has done an outstanding job for the Indians. 

 

The Huskies advance to the state tournament in Vienna. The Indians end their season with a 22-5 record.

 

Carr said he is proud of BHS and particularly wanted to recognize this year’s seniors, Smith, Strait, Hannah Clark and Alex Busdeker.

 

“Even though the last two games didn’t turn out the way we wanted, that doesn’t define their years at Bridgeport High School,” he said.

 

“What I want to reflect on is that over their four years, they have a combined record of 75 wins and 16 losses. That’s the best record for any senior class.”

 

Carr also offered a shout out to the Herbert Hoover administration for recognizing BHS and the student body for the work they did to assist in flood relief efforts last summer.

 

Editor's Note: File photos (from top) of team, Abby Strait with Emily Riggs and Taylor Smith are by Ben Queen Photography.