Tigers take aim at regional title

HILLMAN, Mich. — Last Saturday, the Hillman Tigers softball team pulled off a huge upset, taking down No. 9. Johannesburg-Lewiston 5–1 to win their first district title since 2015. This Saturday, the Tigers will head to Indian River to see if they can punch their ticket to states. In order to advance, they have to win two games.

The first step is to take down the Central Lake Trojans in a regional semifinal match. Last Saturday in districts, the Trojans outscored their opponents 22-4. However, the Trojans’ bats will be put to the test as they’ll have to deal with pitcher Nicole Barbeau. Against Johannesburg-Lewiston, she allowed one run on one hit while striking out six batters. Overall, there’s a lot of confidence in this Tigers team as they look for their first regional crown since 2015.

“I’m ready, I’m not really nervous,” said Barbeau. “I’m very confident that we can pull it off. We’ve been practicing really hard and I think we’re going to do well.”

“There’s a certain level where all the teams will be playing at,” said head coach Ken Rundell. “Any given day, anything can happen. If we can stick to our mental game plan, I think we can have a great chance.”

First pitch for Saturday’s regional semifinal game is set for 10 a.m. The winner of this game will play in the afternoon against the winner of Rogers City vs. St. Ignace for a regional title.