Thunder Fall To Hibbing, Split With Rainy River

Chris Shevich-NSO

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May 3

Wes Vork-NSO

Two days after being eliminated from the Minnesota College Athletic Conference State Softball Tournament the Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College women’s softball team split a pair of games with Rainy River Community College in International Falls.

On Monday the Thunder lost both games of a doubleheader to Hibbing Community College which eliminated them from post season play. On Tuesday the Thunder dropped the opener 14-13 and then bounced back to win 20-11 in the night cap.

“Needless to say it was a very long day,” said Thunder coach Kerry Rodd. “The two teams just pounded the ball and the games lasted a long time.”

The Thunder set a school record for most hits in a double header with 38 and they also bashed out two home runs and nine doubles on the day.

“I think it was just a lot of kids deciding to come out and have some fun,” Rodd commented. “Both teams were loose, but still focused.”

In particular the Thunder got incredible performances from a pair of sophomores, Lisa Muehlberger of Duluth Central and Carlton’s Holly Nelson.

“Lisa went 8-for-10 with seven RBIs, a homer and three doubles,” explained Rodd. “Holly was 7-for-9 with a homer and three doubles and nine RBI’s.”

The dynamic duo was nearly automatic in the two games. Game one saw the Thunder leading 13-11 heading into the bottom of the seventh, but they were unable to hang on for the win. Game two saw Kalee Harp start on the mound for the Thunder, and picking up the win, while Katie Youngberg of Moose Lake-Willow River notched the save.

FDLTCC will finish the season today with a double header at Mesabi Range Community College in Virginia.

Wes Vork can be reached at wes@northlandsportsonline.com