Columbia, Mo. - In an electrifying non-conference showdown hosted by the Stephens College Softball team against the Graceland University Yellowjackets, the Stars split the series 1-1 on the day. The highlight of the day came in the second game, as Head Coach Clint Poulsen clinched his inaugural Collegiate Head Coaching victory.

Poulsen, reflecting on the milestone, emphasized the win's importance for team morale, stating, "This victory is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our players. Individual achievements pale in comparison to the success of the team as a whole."

The first game saw the Yellowjackets take an early lead, notching one run in the opening inning and extending it with three more runs in the fifth. Despite a late surge from the Stars, highlighted by runs from Anabel Throckmorton, Gillian Hale, and Clara Pyle in the bottom of the sixth, the Yellowjackets ultimately secured a 7-3 victory.

However, the Stars came roaring back in the second game, seizing an early advantage in the second inning with key hits from Lyndsey Hood and Avery Throckmorton. Capitalizing on defensive errors from the Yellowjackets and aggressive baserunning, the Stars surged to a 2-0 lead and never looked back. Behind a stellar pitching performance from Elise Kendrick, who allowed only one earned run over seven innings while striking out five batters, the Stars maintained their lead with solid defensive play.

The game reached a thrilling conclusion as Lyndsey Hood made a game-saving catch in the bottom of the seventh, diving towards the left field fence to secure the final out and seal the victory for the Stars.

Looking ahead, the Stars aim to build on their momentum in another double-header series against the Yellowjackets scheduled for Sunday, Feb. 25th, at Rock Bridge High School. Game times are set for noon and 2 p.m., as the Stars seek to continue their winning ways.