Yellowjackets Drop Conference Doubleheader at Grand View

DES MOINES, Iowa — The Graceland University softball team fell in both games of a Heart of America Athletic Conference doubleheader to Grand View on Thursday, dropping contests by scores of 6-0 and 8-0. The Yellowjackets move to 6-21 overall and 1-3 in conference play, while Grand View improves to 15-6 overall and 3-0 in the HAAC.

In the opener, Graceland totaled five hits but was unable to push across a run, leaving seven runners on base. Hallie Chamberlin and Makenzie Leake each recorded multi-hit performances, while Josie McCuddin added a base hit from the shortstop position.

Grand View established early control with a three-run first inning, highlighted by a two-run home run, and added insurance runs in the third and fifth innings. In the circle, Kaylee Henry worked four innings, allowing five runs (four earned), while Leake provided relief, limiting further damage over the final two frames.

Graceland's pitching staff induced 10 flyouts and limited walks, but defensive miscues and extra-base hits allowed Grand View to extend innings. The Yellowjackets also recorded five hits and drew two walks, but were held scoreless due to 14 strikeouts by Viking pitching.

In game two, the Yellowjackets were held to one hit, a single from Makenzie Leake, as Grand View completed the sweep with an 8-0 run-rule victory. The Vikings broke the game open with a seven-run stretch across the third and fourth innings, including a grand slam that extended the lead.

Graceland managed limited baserunners, recording one hit and one walk, while striking out five times. McKenna Kelley took the loss in the circle, allowing eight runs (seven earned) over four innings, with Kaylee Henry providing relief.

"We need to be more consistent in our at-bats and execute situationally," head coach Todd Verwers said. "Our pitching competed, but we have to clean up defensive execution and find ways to manufacture runs."

Graceland returns to Lamoni for its 2026 home opener on Sunday, March 22, hosting Benedictine (Kan.) in a doubleheader beginning at 12 p.m. CDT, followed by game two at 2 p.m. CDT at North Park in Lamoni, Iowa.

For more information on Graceland softball and all Graceland athletics, visit GUjackets.com.