New Clarkston head softball Coach Don Peters did not exactly know what he was getting himself into when he took over the Wolves program.
So far, his team has shown him they are willing to fight for a victory, evidenced by Clarkston’s 3-1 win over North Farmington in 13 innings on April 18. The Wolves also demonstrated their inexperience last week going 1-3 at the Farmington Mercy Tournament on April 16.
‘I think we are a little ahead of schedule. Our success is based on improving each game,? said Peters.
Sarah Burger pitched all 13 innings of the victory over North Farmington, striking out eight and allowing no earned runs.
Clarkston emerged victorious from the marathon game against North Farmington with a flurry of hitting in the top of the 13th. The length of the game forced the two teams to reschedule the second game of what was supposed to be a double header.
Amber Giroux led off the 13th with a single, followed by a single by Caitlyn Morris. Bailey Mellen then drove in Giroux on a fielder’s choice. Jenna Beno completed Clarkston’s rally with a RBI single, knocking in Morris. Giroux stood out for Clarkston collecting three hits and scoring twice. Katy Kleinedler also had a good day in the batter’s box with two hits and a run scored.
‘They did an excellent job of baserunning. They are learning to become an aggressive team,? said Peters.
Burger was also the winning pitcher for Clarkston in the team’s lone win, a 9-3 victory over Milan, at the Farmington Mercy Tournament. Clarkston lost 9-3 to Mercy, 9-0 to Allen Park and 7-5 to Grosse Pointe during tournament play. Katie Smith was a standout offensively throughout the day’s action collecting six hits in Clarkston’s four games.
Next up for the Wolves is their first home game of the season on April 20 against Kettering. The team will then head to the Richmond Tournament on April 23.
‘Richmond is a hot spot for softball,? said Peters, who added many top teams from around the state, such as Richmond, Regina and Farmington Hills Harrison, will be in attendance.
Peters is also looking forward to coaching against one of his daughters who is currently on the Richmond coaching staff.