Seniors Claire Cianek and Berryl Pappas helped make sure the Brandon softball team headed into spring break on a winning note.
However, the Blackhawks had to battle weather elements more suited for the frozen tundra of Lambeau Field than the grassy tundra of Brandon High School.
Despite the chilly and windy weather, the Blackhawks swept the visiting Oxford Wildcats in an April 16 doubleheader, winning the opener 9-2 and the nightcap 12-2.
Brandon’s record heading into the break is 11-1 overall and 4-0 in Flint Metro League play. Coach Don Peters attributes the fast start to ‘hard work, a good attitude and some talented players, as well as a little bit of luck.?
‘I knew we had a good team this year, but it’s still a little bit better than I thought,? Peters said.
In the opener, Brandon spotted Oxford a 2-0 lead heading into the bottom of the fourth. The Wildcats had scored their pair of runs in the top of the inning, but their lead would be short-lived, as the Blackhawks scored seven runs in the bottom of the fourth to take a decisive advantage.
Cianek went three-for-four with two RBI and a run scored, while Pappas went two-for-three with two RBI and two runs scored. Freshman Jill Perry also scored two runs for Brandon. Sophomore pitcher Jackie Wojtkowicz struck out nine to pick up the win for the Blackhawks.
In the nightcap, the Blackhawks spread out their offense evenly, scoring one run in the first inning, three in the second, one in the third, four in the fourth and three in the fifth.
Senior Courtney Wright went three-for-four for Brandon with three RBI and a run scored. Cianek went two-for-four with three RBI and two runs scored, while Pappas went two-for-four with two runs scored and senior Michelle Hojnacki went three-for-four with two RBI and two runs scored. Nicole Flood picked up the win for Brandon on the mound.
Peters said Cianek’s play has improved significantly from last year. ‘She’s just hit the heck out of the ball, played good defense and shown great leadership,? Peters said. ‘She’s made that big jump from her junior year to her senior year.?
Brandon returns to action May 3-4 in the North Star Tourney at Liberty Park in Sterling Heights.