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Todd Halcomb's squad reached a new level of achievement in its 5-1 triumph over the tradition-rich Vikings in Game One, jumping out to a quick lead and riding the strong right arm of Sara Mead to victory. It is believed to be St. Charles' first victory in 25 years against Swan Valley.

"Rachel Lichon led the offensive attack and we made things happen by putting pressure on their defense," commented Coach Halcomb. "We still need to work on not putting ourselves in bad situations by our mistakes, but we made some clutch plays when we had to. Felicia Reinke led the defensive charge for us."

Lichon had a pair of hits, a stolen base and scored twice as the Lady Bulldogs scored twice in the first, twice in the second and once in the third to race out to a 5-0 advantage. Meanwhile, Mead scattered five hits, struck out six and did not walk a batter to keep Swan Valley at bay. The only run allowed by Mead was unearned.

Reinke knocked in a run with a triple and scored once to aid the 'Dawg cause. Jade Tribfelner also had a hit for St. Charles.

Reinke took the loss on the mound in Game Two, yielding all seven Viking hits in 3 2/3 innings of work. Kaleigh Bashans hurled the final 3 1/3 innings without allowing a hit. Neither 'Dawg pitcher received much support from the defense as St. Charles committed five errors in the nightcap.

Mead socked a double while Lichon and Reinke each singled to account for all of the hits by the Lady Bulldogs. Swan Valley scored three times in the opening frame, and after St. Charles narrowed the deficit to 3-1 with a run in the third, the Vikings put the game away with four in the fourth.

"We needed more consistency with the gloves, but I'm very proud of the girls on how hard they played and the desire they showed," concluded Halcomb.

The split with the always-tough Vikings brings St. Charles' overall record to 2-1.