Henderson, NV - In a thrilling conclusion to their fourth game of the 2025 Coyote Kickoff Classic, the College of Southern Nevada (CSN) Coyotes clinched a narrow victory over South Mountain Community College with a final score of 11-10. The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, featuring a multitude of runs, a combined total of 17 errors, and a showcase of resilience by the Coyotes, who improved their tournament record to 2-2.
The early morning game began with CSN taking a quick lead in the bottom of the first inning after a series of defensive mishaps by South Mountain allowed Chloe Makinney to score on an error after a single by Athena Tonga'onevai. However, the lead was short-lived as South Mountain answered back in the second inning, bringing three runners home to take a 3-1 lead, courtesy of a clutch double by Eva Harrison.
The Coyotes responded with a vengeance in the bottom of the second, unleashing a six-run barrage that was highlighted by a two-RBI double from Athena Tonga'onevai and a series of aggressive base running, including steals by Camryn Hunkins and Mariela Rodriguez. The Coyotes capitalized on a mix of hits and fielding errors by South Mountain to surge ahead with a 7-3 lead.
The third inning saw CSN extend their lead further, adding two more runs, including a triple by Jrew-Marie Mina that drove in Chaleah Workman. However, South Mountain was not ready to back down, scoring three runs in the top of the third to cut the deficit. This inning was marked by a home run from Sadie Sua, bringing the score to a tight 9-6.
The middle innings cooled down as both teams' pitchers found their rhythms. Mckenna Cahoon started on the mound for CSN but struggled early, eventually being relieved by Bryn Connors, who steadied the ship with a solid outing, earning the win with her effective relief pitching.
In a dramatic sixth inning, CSN added two crucial runs. Jimena Barraza-Caro and Mindy Ward, who pinch-hit effectively, utilized wild pitches and fielding errors to push the lead to 11-6. These runs proved to be vital, as South Mountain launched a comeback in the seventh inning, scoring four runs, including another home run by Sadie Su'a. The rally brought the score to a nail-biting 11-10.
In the final moments of the game, CSN called upon London Lamb to close out the game. Demonstrating nerves of steel, Lamb secured the save, striking out two batters and stranding a South Mountain runner to seal the victory for the Coyotes.
The game was a hard-fought contest with CSN accumulating 12 hits, led by multiple-hit games from Camryn Hunkins, Athena Tonga'onevai, and Jrew-Marie Mina. Despite the defensive struggles, the Coyotes' offense made up for it by taking advantage of every opportunity provided by South Mountain's seven errors.
This victory was a testament to the Coyotes' resilience and ability to perform under pressure. The team's ability to bounce back from early deficits and close out tight games was on full display, providing a significant confidence boost as they continue in the tournament.
Looking ahead, the Coyotes will focus on tightening their defense and maintaining their aggressive approach at the plate. With this win, CSN has set the stage for a strong finish in the Coyote Kickoff Classic, aiming to carry the momentum from today's thrilling victory into their upcoming games.
Today's game was a showcase of collegiate softball at its most exciting — unpredictable, action-packed, and full of teachable moments. The CSN Coyotes have demonstrated that they are a team with the heart and grit necessary to compete at a high level, and they will look to build on this performance.
