Phoenix Country Day only had one practice to prepare for its opener against North Pointe Prep and it showed as they took the opening loss 18-9 Wednesday.

Led by senior Audrey LeClair, who started the game at shortstop, PCDS was unable to overcome a rough first inning.

LeClair knows the big stage and knows what it takes to win as she has committed to play D-1 softball at Michigan next year.

LeClair and fellow senior Allison Hunter combined to go 5 for 6 with Hunter singling twice and LeClair adding a single, triple and a double.

 

 

As the Eagles look forward to the rest of the season, they know they need to work on their game.

“Finish the game strong and work on the little details,” said Hunter, who is in her first full year as the starting pitcher.

Hunter gave up six runs in the first inning but PCDS closed the gap to 6-4 in the second inning.

From there the game was all North Pointe Prep.

With basketball just ending, the team did not have a lot of time to prepare for this home opener. Most of the players played basketball.

“I just want to get rid of their nerves,” said coach Diane  Rodman. “We came off one day of practice and I think we did a good job as I had half the team missing until yesterday and most of these girls had their first live at bats today.

Even in the middle of the game, Rodman looked for opportunities to coach.

PCDS still has hopes for a brighter future.

When asked what the end goal of this is, LeClair didn't hesitate. "Playoffs.''

Phoenix Country Day’s next game is next Wednesday against Arizona Lutheran Academy.