It is a quieter week for Saint Mary’s athletics as the department shifts its focus fully into the spring sports season.
BASEBALL HEADS TO ILLINOIS
The Saint Mary’s baseball team (6-5) wrapped up a busy stretch in Florida last week, playing eight games during its annual spring break trip. The Cardinals finished the week with a 4-4 record, earning wins over Trine, Wartburg, Concordia Chicago, and Illinois College.
Next up, the Cardinals travel to Decatur, Ill., for three games this weekend. Saint Mary’s opens play on Saturday, March 14, against host Millikin at 10:00 a.m. before taking on Marian later that day. The trip concludes Sunday with a 10:00 a.m. matchup against Dubuque.
SOFTBALL TAKES BREAK BEFORE CONFERENCE PLAY
The Saint Mary’s softball team (14-2) currently sits fourth in the nation after competing against some of the country’s top programs at the invite-only NFCA Lead Off Classic in Columbus, Ga. The Cardinals posted a strong 4-2 showing during the weekend but fell short of claiming the tournament title after dropping their opening matchup of bracket play.
Following the demanding tournament schedule, Saint Mary’s will have a brief break before returning to action. The Cardinals open conference play at home on April 1 with a doubleheader against St. Catherine.
TENNIS RETURNS TO ACTION
After time away from competition, the Saint Mary’s tennis teams return to the courts this weekend. The Cardinals travel to Owatonna, Minn., on Saturday, March 14, to face St. Olaf in an 11:30 a.m. matchup.
The women’s team will then host No. 19 Gustavus Adolphus on Sunday at 1:30 p.m. at the Winona Tennis Center.
WOMEN’S BASKETBALL SEASON CONCLUDES AT NCAA TOURNAMENT
For the first time in a decade, the Saint Mary’s women’s basketball team earned a berth in the NCAA Division III Women’s Basketball Tournament, receiving the final at-large selection. The Cardinals faced Wisconsin Lutheran in the opening round in Oshkosh, Wis., where their season came to an end with a 65-47 loss.
Despite the early exit, the Cardinals capped off a historic season that included several individual honors. Freshman Ayla Olson was named MIAC Rookie of the Year, marking the second consecutive season a Saint Mary’s player earned the award after Brianna Nusbaum received the honor last year. Nusbaum was also named All-Conference this season, while teammate Kali Olson earned All-Conference recognition as well.
While this week’s schedule may appear lighter, the action will soon pick up as Saint Mary’s prepares for a busy spring slate.
Go Cardinals!
