REDDING, Calif. - The NCU softball team opened their season on Friday at the Simpson University Tournament, going 1-2 with a key 6-2 victory over the hosts, currently ranked No. 10 in the NAIA. It was the highest ranked opponent that the Beacons have ever defeated.
NCU opened the day with an 8-4 loss to Hope International University. The Beacons jumped out to a 4-1 lead, fueled by a two-RBI double by senior Addy Hoskins, but the Royals chipped away to claim the victory.
No. 14 Biola University was next and the Eagles walked away with an 8-2 win. Taylor Medley had an RBI double in the game for the Beacons.
In their final game Parker Bonife (pictured) hit a two-run homer in the top of the first inning and the Beacons never trailed. Bonife and Jill Suratt each went 2-for-4 in the game and Janeive Boyles went 1-for-1 with two RBI.
Katie Walker threw four innings in relief, allowing just one earned run to secure the victory. Boyles came in to pitch the final two innings and grabbed the save, allowing no runs and recording two strikeouts.
The Simpson tournament will continue on Saturday.