BonnerSprings.com

The Bonner Springs softball team was a force to be reckoned with Saturday at the Turner Invitational.

The Bravettes battled their way into the championship game before falling to St. James Academy, 8-6.

The title-game loss came after the Bravettes pummeled Washington in the first round, 16-1, and then battled past Ottawa, 4-2, in a 14-inning semifinal thriller.

“The girls did such an awesome job this weekend,” BSHS coach Kara Wardlow said. “The Ottawa game was some awesome softball. Execution was key. The girls gave it their all, and it all paid off in the end. I am so proud of the girls. They are giving their heart and soul to this game and I couldn’t be happier with the way we are playing right now.”

The Bravettes’ bats were popping early against Washington, and they provided plenty of support for pitcher Kelly Chastain who was dominant in throwing a one-hitter.

Geena Harris tossed all 14 innings against Ottawa and consistently kept the Cyclones off balance while putting her team in position to ultimately win.

Breanna Tendick and Cassady Holloway sparked the offense during the first two games as Tendick pounded six hits in 10 at-bats and Holloway went 4-for-10 with two sacrifice bunts, a double and a triple.

Chastain returned to the mound for the title game, but she was unable to replicate her success against Washington. The Thunder struck quickly and took the lead. Harris entered in relief during the third inning and minimized the damage the rest of the way. Chelsea Parr sparked the Bravettes’ rally by going 3-for-4 at the plate, but Bonner Springs was unable to climb all the way back and ultimately came up two runs short.

Bonner Springs (9-9) was scheduled to close out the regular season Monday with a doubleheader against Basehor-Linwood. The games were rained out and have been moved to 4:30 p.m. Friday at BSHS.

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