Testing the Storm: Chemeketa Battles Top-Ranked Lower Columbia in Kelso
Standing Tall: Deloe and Bennett Go the Distance in Friday Doubleheader
Longview, Wash. — Facing one of the most formidable lineups in the NWAC, the Chemeketa Storm softball team battled through a difficult doubleheader on Friday at Heerensperger Field, ultimately falling to Lower Columbia by final scores of 9-0 and 4-0.
Against a Red Devils squad boasting a 31-2 record, the Storm were forced into defensive battles from the first pitch of the opener. While the results weren't what the team hoped for, the squad continues to show resilience as they work toward refining their approach against elite regional competition.
Final: Lower Columbia 9, Chemeketa 0
The opener proved to be a challenging start as the Lower Columbia offense jumped out to an early lead. The Red Devils capitalized on a four-run first inning, punctuated by a two-run homer from Danika Hallom.
Chemeketa starter Addison Bennett showed significant grit throughout the afternoon, battling through 128 pitches to keep the Storm in the game against a relentless lineup. However, Lower Columbia's Zoey Hughes provided a masterclass in the circle, throwing a no-hitter against the Storm to stifle the offense. Despite the scoreboard, the Storm remained disciplined at the plate, drawing three walks and refusing to go down without a fight.
Game 2: Deloe Stands Tall
Final: Lower Columbia 4, Chemeketa 0
The nightcap saw a much tighter contest as Laney Deloe took the circle for the Storm. Deloe proved to be a workhorse, tossing a complete game and navigating through a deep Lower Columbia lineup for six innings.
The Storm offense found more success in the second game, tallying four hits. Layni Noonkester led the effort with a sharp double, while Meagan Trissell showcased her prowess at the plate, going 2-for-3 to spark Chemeketa's momentum. Ava Woods also contributed a base hit, marking a positive shift in offensive production compared to the opener.
Lower Columbia's Ava Eib proved difficult to solve, however, holding the Storm scoreless. Chemeketa's defense remained active, highlighted by the team's ability to prevent the game from spiraling despite the Red Devils' consistent pressure.
Weekend Takeaways
| Athlete | Performance | Impact |
| Meagan Trissell | 2-for-3 (Game 2) | Provided the offensive spark in the nightcap. |
| Laney Deloe | 6.0 IP (Game 2) | Kept the Storm within reach in a hard-fought complete game. |
| Layni Noonkester | 2B (Game 2) | Continued her steady presence at the top of the lineup. |
| Addison Bennett | 128 Pitches (Game 1) | Showed unwavering resilience against the top team in the region. |
Looking Ahead
"These are the games that teach you the most about your character," the coaching staff noted following the doubleheader. "Lower Columbia is playing elite softball, and we saw firsthand the level we need to reach to compete for a championship. We'll regroup, focus on our plate discipline, and get ready for the next one."
The Storm will use this experience as a building block, focusing on defensive consistency and tightening their approach at the plate as they head into the next stretch of NWAC play.
Photo Credit: The Athlete Studio Instagram: @TheAthlete_Studio