LIVONIA, MICH. – Madonna University softball is in the thick of the NAIA National Championship Opening Round, having secured a two-seed in the Sioux Center bracket, hosted by Northwestern College (Iowa). Their opening game was on Monday, May 13th, at 4:30 pm against Grand View University (Iowa), which the Crusaders won 6-3.
The Madonna Crusaders entered the tournament boasting a 48-3 record and riding a 27-game winning streak. Leading the charge on the mound is three-time WHAC Pitcher of the Year, Maeson Schlaud. Schlaud's dominance is evident in her 31-2 record and 1.06 ERA. At the plate, the Crusaders are fueled by junior Alissa Gauthier, who maintains a .433 batting average, and junior catcher Mackenzie Ming, who leads the team with 10 home runs.
Competition in the Sioux Center bracket is fierce. The Crusaders are battling against Saint Xavier University (Ill.) and Bellevue University (Neb.) alongside Northwestern College and Grand View University. All five teams boast impressive records and national recognition, making for an exciting and challenging tournament atmosphere.
The NAIA National Championship continues through May 16th. Follow Madonna University Athletics for updates on the team's progress in the tournament.
