MEEKER | The Meeker Recreation Center 8-10 softball team opened its season with a pair of close contests, falling 4-1 to Rifle in international tiebreaker play before dropping another 4-1 decision to New Castle at home Monday night.
In the season opener against Rifle, Meeker battled to a 1-1 tie through four innings before time expired and the teams moved to the international tiebreaker format. Rifle capitalized on its opportunity in extra innings to score three runs and secure the win.
“ I thought we played well for our first game, the girls had fun and showed a lot of hustle,” head coach Colt Walker said after the opener. “Girls played well together as a team.”
Walker said the close game provided valuable experience for the young squad.
“Both teams played hard. Rifle was able to get a few more hits in extra innings. It was a good experience for us to be in a tight competitive game,” he said.
Following the game, Walker praised the team’s attitude and effort.
“After the game we talked about all the good things we did and we thanked all the girls for their good sportsmanship and hustle,” he said.
Meeker returned to the field Monday night against New Castle and again showed improvement despite another 4-1 loss.
“We hit the ball better tonight. I thought we made some good plays in the field,” Walker said. “The girls played great and showed a lot of hustle and effort.”
Walker said he has been encouraged by the way the players have supported one another through the first two games.
“We’ve been very happy with the girls’ effort and sportsmanship so far. They do a great job lifting each other up,” he said.
While wins and losses are secondary at the recreational level, Walker said the team’s primary goal remains steady improvement.
“We really are just trying to get better each and every time we step on the field,” he said. “We hope to learn something new and to keep improving.”
Meeker will look to continue that progress this week as it prepares for a road game against Glenwood June 25.
“Emphasis this week will be to continue learning the game and having fun,” Walker said. “We hope to get better at all phases and grow as a team.”
With two games under its belt, the 8-10 softball team will continue focusing on learning and development as it prepares for a road contest against Glenwood.
Meeker’s #14 Ravae Metz stands on second base during the Meeker Recreation Center 8-10 softball team’s season opener against Rifle. Meeker battled to a 1-1 tie through regulation before falling 4-1 in international tiebreaker play. JARED HENDERSON PHOTO
