Softball Recap: Ferndale Comes Up Short

Ferndale extended their losing streak (dating back to last season) to ten on Wednesday, dropping them down to 0-7. They lost 21-0 to the Berlin Brothersvalley Mountaineers. The result was an unpleasant reminder to the Yellow Jackets of the 10-0 loss they experienced in the pair's previous head-to-head fixture back in May of 2025.

As for Berlin Brothersvalley, the victory keeps them at an undefeated 8-0. The wins came thanks in part to their pitching effort, having only surrendered 2.3 runs on average this season.

For Berlin Brothersvalley's part, Elena Ritchey made a splash no matter where she played. She struck out six batters over three innings while giving up no earned runs off one hit (and only one walk). Ritchey has been consistent recently: she hasn't given up more than one walk in four consecutive appearances. She was also big at the plate, going 3-for-4 with four RBI, two runs, and one double.

In other batting news, Berlin Brothersvalley got a massive performance out of Elsie Barna, who went 3-for-4 with one home run, three RBI, and two runs. Audra Handke also deserves some recognition as she hit her first triple of the season.

Coming up, Ferndale will welcome Blacklick Valley at 4:15 p.m. on Thursday. The Vikings will aim to continue their three-game streak of scoring more runs each contest than the last. As for Berlin Brothersvalley, they will venture away from home to face off against Meyersdale at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday. The Mountaineers' pitchers better be ready for this one: the Red Raiders have averaged an impressive 8.5 runs per game this season.