Softball Wins Season Opener in Missouri

BRANSON, Mo. – Doane Softball opened the 2026 season with a 4-1 victory over UHSP on Thursday (Feb. 6) at a neutral-site matchup in Branson, Missouri, using a four-run burst across the third and fourth innings and a strong pitching effort to secure the season-opening win.

After UHSP scratched out an unearned run in the top of the first, Doane responded in the bottom of the third to take control. Milannie Gonzalez continued her big day at the plate by reaching base and eventually scoring when Natalie Ascencio doubled to left center to tie the game. Moments later, Addison Parsons lined a single through the left side to plate Ascencio, pushing the Tigers in front, 2-1.

Doane added two more in the fourth, taking advantage of pressure on the bases. Jaiden Papik sparked the inning and later came around during a string of stolen bases, while Lilly Lewis stole home to extend the lead. Gonzalez then delivered again with an RBI single through the left side to make it 4-1.

In the circle, Ascencio earned the win in her first appearance of the season, allowing just one unearned run while working five innings. Lauren Dick closed the door with two scoreless innings to pick up the save as the Tigers limited UHSP to six hits and stranded eight runners.

Offensively, Doane finished with nine hits and six stolen bases. Gonzalez led the way, going 3-for-4 with an RBI and a run scored, while Papik went 2-for-4 and swiped three bases. Parsons added two hits and an RBI, and Ascencio helped her own cause with a double, RBI, and a run scored.

Doane improves to 1-0 with the win.

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