PETER PETROFF
Special to the Independent Tribune
HARRISBURG â On Tuesday afternoon, the Hickory Ridge softball team defeated Porter Ridge, 3-0, to claim the Southwestern 4A Conference title, its first regular-season championship since 2017.
With the win, Hickory Ridge (11-2, 9-0 SWC) is guaranteed a spot in the state tournament. Meanwhile, Porter Ridge (8-3, 7-2 SWC) had already locked up at least second place but will be looking to secure a potential wild card berth in the playoffs.
Todd Maulden/Special to the Independent Tribune
The clear highlight of the shutout victory for the Raginâ Bulls was sophomore pitcher Anna Dew, who threw 14 strikeouts in six innings and only allowed one hit. The Pirates were only able to bat more than four times in an inning just once in the entire game. It was Dewâs sixth shutout of the season.