RCTC Softball Opens Spring Trip With Pair of Losses but Show Flashes of Potential

The Rochester Community and Technical College Yellowjackets opened their spring trip with a pair of challenging matchups, falling 10–2 to Central Community College and 12–4 to Iowa Lakes. Although the results weren't what the team hoped for, both games offered encouraging moments from a young roster still settling into the rhythm of early‑season play.

Game 1: Central Community College 10, RCTC 2

In their opening contest, the Yellowjackets faced a sharp Central squad that jumped out quickly with four first‑inning runs. RCTC responded in the second when Jayda Bednarek worked her way on base and eventually came around to score, giving the Jackets early life. Bednarek's energy set a tone; she later added a stolen base while finishing 1‑for‑2 with a walk.

Pitcher Zoey Clark handled the full workload in the circle, throwing all five innings. Despite allowing 10 runs—only four of them earned—Clark showed poise, striking out three and battling through 34 batters. Defensive miscues (three RCTC errors) extended several innings, but Clark continued to compete.

Offensively, RCTC collected four hits. Ivette Mendoza delivered the team's only extra‑base hit, a double that plated a run in the sixth. Cason Forbrook added another RBI with a solid 1‑for‑2 performance, while Ella Bergan chipped in the remaining hit. Though the Jackets threatened in spurts, Central's pitcher kept momentum on her side, scattering four hits across six innings.

Game 2: Iowa Lakes Community College 12, RCTC 4

Game two presented another tough test as Iowa Lakes' offense ignited for 12 runs, fueled by an eight‑run third inning. RCTC starter Alyssa Knudson fought through traffic all game, facing 28 batters in just three innings. Despite challenges with control—10 walks and two wild pitches—Knudson also surrendered just six hits.

Offensively, RCTC found more rhythm in this matchup despite tallying only two hits. The team made the most of its opportunities, especially in the fifth inning when they pushed across three runs. Zoey Clark had three RBIs, including RCTC's first run in the fourth. Cason Forbrook added the other RBI with a timely hit, and Ella Bergan contributed on the basepaths with a stolen base.

Defensively, the Jackets cleaned things up, committing just one error. Reliever Clark returned to the circle for two innings, allowing only one hit and no earned runs, helping stabilize the latter portion of the game.

Iowa Lakes capitalized on free bases—drawing 10 walks—and used speed and situational hitting to control the tempo. Still, RCTC's late‑game energy and ability to manufacture runs showcased progress.

RCTC will be back on the field Tuesday, taking on Schoolcraft College and Cuyahoga CC as the Spring Trip continues on through Friday.