BGSU Club Softball delivered an exciting and promising weekend at the Indy Invitational Tournament, finishing with a 2-3 record that showcased the team's depth, offensive power, and resilience against tough competition.

The Falcons opened the tournament with a statement win over Loyola University, fueled by clutch performances from the bottom of the lineup. Audrey Collins, Casey Marousch, and Richardson combined for six RBIs in the 9–1 victory, while Marousch dominated in the circle with seven strikeouts over five innings.

Despite back-to-back losses against University of Illinois and Michigan State, the team's bats never cooled off. Against Illinois—ranked #3 nationally—BGSU mounted a late surge with a six-run fifth inning led by Rachel Ebert and Lauren Shaver. In a high-scoring battle with Michigan State, the Falcons racked up 13 hits, including a two-run homer by Sammy Gingras, and held a lead into the fifth inning before falling just short in a 15–11 shootout.

With the conclusion of pool play on Saturday, Lauren Shaver was recognized as the MVP by the team for her outstanding leadership at the plate with 5 RBIs and 5 hits as well as some great plays in the outfield including her diving for a foul ball catch.

Sunday brought another strong showing as BGSU bounced back with a 10–5 win over Central Michigan to begin single-elimination bracket play. The bottom of the order again came through in a big way, combining for half the team's hits and several key runs. Kylie Gibson went a perfect 4-for-4, while Sadie Schulke threw a complete game without allowing a single earned run.

The tournament closed in dramatic fashion with a walk-off loss to Purdue—the top-ranked team in the tournament—but not without fireworks from the Falcons. Sammy Gingras had a monster game at the plate, going 3-for-4 with two doubles and a go-ahead home run in the seventh. Sammy's clutch performance at the plate alongside her amazing plays in the field at third base earned her the teams vote for MVP of the day. Despite the narrow 7–6 loss, the team's effort and energy never wavered.

Sophomore Kendal Sufka captured the team's mindset best:

"I don't think this weekend could have gone any better for a new season with so many new teammates. Compared to last year's season, I can already feel a different dynamic and the competitiveness that we are going to bring and have a high-winning season!" She went on to compliment the team's resilience and determination in the games against #3 ranked nationally University of Illinois and Purdue the #1 seed in the tournament and reiterates her excitement for the upcoming season.

While the final record for the weekend may not tell the whole story, this weekend's performance was a clear sign that BGSU Club Softball is a force to be reckoned with. From powerful hitting up and down the lineup to confident pitching performances and clean defensive play, the Falcons have built a strong foundation early in the season.

With chemistry building and confidence growing, the Falcons leave Indy with momentum—and a sense that this season could be something special.

The Falcons will travel to Michigan State University on October 12th for their next series. Be sure to follow BGSU Club Softball on their Instagram @bgclubsoftball for more information on upcoming games and events.

Let's go Falcons!