The Laurel Bears 18U softball team traveled to Hastings, , for the 2025 18U Class D State Softball Tournament held from July 11-13.
The team faced tough competition but demonstrated resilience throughout the weekend.
In their first game on July 11, the Bears won 10-7 against Wausa.
Laurel was held scoreless in the first inning, while Wausa managed to score one run in the bottom of the first. However, the Bears’ offense erupted in the second inning, putting up nine runs.
Wausa rallied back with six runs in their half of the second, but the Bears' defense held firm, preventing any further runs. Laurel added more runs and claimed the win with a final score of 10-7.
Later in the day, the Bears picked up an 8-6 victory over Verdigre.
Both teams started strong offensively, with Verdigre scoring four runs in the top of the first inning. The Bears responded with three runs of their own in the bottom of the inning. Laurel’s defense, backed by solid pitching, shut down Verdigre's offense, allowing just two more runs through the remainder of the game. The Bears' offense added five more runs, securing an 8-6 victory.
On July 12, Laurel faced a tough challenge from Meridian falling by the score of 5-0, a team that would go on to win the state championship.
Meridian jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the first inning and added two more runs throughout the game. Despite a valiant effort, the Bears were unable to overcome the deficit, falling 5-0.
Later in the evening, the Bears found themselves in an elimination game against the defending 2024 Class D State Champions, Crofton and suffered an 8-7 loss to close their season.
The first two innings were a pitching and defensive battle, with both teams going scoreless.
Crofton then exploded for five runs in the top of the third inning, but the Bears responded with two runs of their own in the bottom of the frame.
Crofton added three more runs in the top of the fourth, putting Laurel behind 8-2 as the time limit neared. The Bears came out swinging, scoring five runs and closing the gap, but ultimately fell short, losing 8-7.
Despite the tough losses, the Bears showed incredible growth throughout the tournament.
Coach Brian Gould praised the team for their determination and growth, particularly given that many of the players are still developing in their softball careers. He also expressed pride in their effort and is optimistic about the team’s future, looking forward to more successes ahead.
