Softball finishes fifth at the Western Collegiate Softball Association Championship

October 15, 2024

VICTORIA – The University of Victoria Vikes women's softball team capped off a strong season with a fifth-place finish at the Western Collegiate Softball Association (WCSA) Championship, held October 5-6 in Calgary, Alberta.

This year's WCSA was a fierce battleground, with the top six teams separated by just two wins.

The Vikes wrapped up the regular season boasting a record of 13-11-1. As they headed into the tournament, they were up against a challenging pool that included the reigning WCSA champions, the University of British Columbia Okanagan (UBCO), the University of Saskatchewan (U of S), and the University of Lethbridge. UBCO and U of S eventually clinched the gold and silver medals, making the Vikes' journey to the final a demanding one.

However, the young Vikes squad, featuring ten first- and second-year athletes finished on a strong note, ending the tournament with two wins highlighted by stellar offensive performances. Pitcher Sophie Hepner was equally impressive, delivering a standout performance on the mound.

"Following the COVID-impacted recruiting classes, we are back on track to grow the program," said head coach Lori Zehr. "This younger team has much talent and is positioned to excel in future years. There is terrific skill, speed, and power on the team! We have been working diligently on our team and program culture over the past two years."

Several individual Vikes players were recognized for their exceptional efforts throughout the tournament. First baseman Dani Boudreau earned the prestigious Gold Glove award and was named a WCSA First Team All-Star, alongside catcher Kristen Bertelsen. Left fielder Sydney Apel Cruz also received accolades, being named to the Second Team All-Star roster.

Taylor Poole earned the WCSA leadership award for her standout leadership throughout the season.

“This year the competition between all the teams was incredibly close, I haven’t seen it like this in the three years I’ve been on the team,” said Poole. “I think this season has been a really great learning experience for all of us. Coming into the 2024 season we had quite a few freshmen, so to see how much we improved and worked well together as a newish team has been amazing. I’m really looking forward to building on what we were able to accomplish this season.”

WSCA AWARD WINNERS

WCSA Gold Glove – Dani Boudreau

WCSA First Team All Star – Kristen Bertelsen (catcher); Dani Boudreau (first base)

WCSA Second Team All Star – Sydney Apelo Cruz (left field)

Leadership award – Taylor Poole

All Academics (achieving a minimum 80% GPA with a full course load)– Alex Buckham, Brooke Frasch, Clare Johnston, Payton Regier, and Sophie Hepner.