ABERDEEN, S.D. — McCook Central/Montrose capped a memorable season with a runner-up finish Saturday, highlighting a strong showing by area programs at the South Dakota Class B State Softball Tournament.
The Fighting Cougars advanced to the championship game before falling to top-seeded Castlewood 9-2 at the Players Softball Complex. McCook Central/Montrose finished its season at 22-3 after reaching the state title game in its first state tournament appearance.
The Cougars struck first when Ella DeKnikker scored in the opening inning, but Castlewood answered immediately and broke the game open with a six-run third inning. Mya Morrison, Ashtyn DeKnikker and Josalyn Traupel each recorded hits for McCook Central/Montrose, while Zaidee Huls pitched a complete game in the loss.
Castlewood collected 13 hits and secured its second Class B championship in four seasons.
Hanson placed fourth after a 7-0 loss to Gayville-Volin in the third-place game. Gayville-Volin pitcher Jolie Westrum threw a four-hit shutout, while Hanson’s Jacey Schoenrock struck out 11 batters despite taking the loss. Jozlynn Tegethoff, Schoenrock, Rylee Furgeson and Tenly Slaba accounted for the Beavers’ four hits.
Freeman/Marion/Freeman Academy claimed the consolation championship with a 9-3 victory over Redfield in the fifth-place game. Harli Ross struck out 13 batters and tossed a complete game for FMFA. Claire Loofbourrow drove in two runs with a double, while Aubree Tschetter added two hits. Elizabeth Piehl, Samantha Fransen and Remington Weier each contributed an RBI.
Avon closed its tournament with a dominant 13-3 win over Florence/Henry in the seventh-place game. Kaydence Metzger, Rilyn Thury and Pria Sesler each drove in three runs as the Pirates rolled to the victory. Metzger also earned the win in the circle, allowing three runs while striking out eight.
Elsewhere in state tournament action, Dakota Valley captured the Class A championship with a 9-6 win over Elk Point-Jefferson, securing the program’s first state softball title. In Class AA, Sioux Falls Jefferson completed a perfect 23-0 season by defeating Sioux Falls Washington 11-0 in five innings for its second consecutive state championship.