Berryman’s blasts help Hawks split with Raiders

COLUMBUS, Neb. – Maggie Berryman (Norfolk, Neb.) picked up right where she left off from last season on Saturday, guiding the Hawks to a series split with Central Community College in Columbus, Neb.

The Hawks (1-1) fell in the first game, 10-6, before taking the second, 13-8.

Northeast led Central for the first three innings in the season opener, but a nine-run sixth inning proved to be costly for the Hawks.

Berryman went 2-for-3, with a home run, a triple, two RBI, a run and a walk. Chantel Julian (Roseville, Calif.) added a double and two RBI.

Kierra Stewart (Dodge, Neb.) was saddled with the loss after tossing five innings, allowing four earned runs off four hits, while striking out seven batters and walking one.

"Kierra pitched a great Game One," head coach Iris Woodhead said. "We need to do a better job of converting outs given to us and be ready to step into the game and compete."

The Hawks managed to salvage the series after Berryman hit a two-run home run in the first inning. In the fourth inning, Berryman laced a single that ultimately scored two runners that gave Northeast a 6-3 lead. Jacqueline Denning (Sacramento, Calif.) and Reagen Reicks (Charter Oak, Iowa) hit back-to-back home runs that sealed the win for Northeast.

Berryman went 4-for-5 with a home run, a double, seven RBI and two runs. Alyssa Turner (Columbus, Neb.) went 5-for-5 with a run, while Denning was 1-for-4 with a home run, three RBI, a run and a walk.

Freshman Sydney Schmitz (Nebraska City, Neb.) picked up the win after tossing six innings, allowing five earned runs off seven hits, while striking out six and walking two.

"Sydney did a great job for us," Woodhead added. "The hitters settled into their shoes much better and did a fantastic job of getting on base and executing with runners on base. Overall, a fantastic team win for us."

The Hawks take on Western Nebraska Community College at 2 p.m. Saturday, followed by a 4 p.m. battle with North Platte Community College at 4 p.m. in North Platte, Neb.

For all news related to Northeast Community College athletics, visit northeasthawks.com for complete coverage. Fans can also follow the Hawks on Twitter @NortheastHawks for game-day coverage.