Henderson, NV - In the concluding matchup of the 2025 Coyote Kickoff Classic for the College of Southern Nevada (CSN) Coyotes experienced a heart-wrenching defeat against Spoon River College, ending the tournament with a 2-3 record. The final showdown at Henderson, NV, proved to be a battle of endurance and strategy, concluding with a score of 6-4 after nine intense innings.
From the start, the game was closely contested. CSN took an early lead, scoring in the first two innings. Camryn Hunkins ignited the offense with a leadoff single, later scoring due to a fielding error by Spoon River's shortstop. The Coyotes extended their lead in the second inning when Marlene Saldate drove in Mattingly Mauzey with a sharp single, setting the tone for what appeared to be a promising start for CSN.
However, Spoon River responded in the third inning. Karsyn Skaggs's double, followed by Erin Pulliam's single and CJ Troxell's timely hit, brought in their first run, showcasing the resilience of the Spoon River lineup. The game tightened further as Spoon River added two more runs in the sixth, capitalizing on a few pivotal hits and a passed ball that allowed runners to advance and score.
CSN did not let up; they countered in the bottom of the fifth with a run to tie the game at 3-3. Justice Lavin and Marlene Saldate orchestrated this effort, with Saldate doubling and later scoring on a hit-by-pitch that brought in Blakelee Christian from third. The tension continued to build as both teams' defenses stiffened, leading to a scoreless seventh inning and setting the stage for extra innings.
In the top of the eighth, Spoon River edged ahead with a run batted in by Erin Pulliam. Not to be outdone, CSN answered back in the bottom of the eighth to level the score once more. Chloe Makinney's single drove in Chaleah Workman, who had started the inning on second base due to extra innings rules, tying the game at 4-4.
The decisive moment came in the top of the ninth when Spoon River managed to secure two runs. Kate Oyler's hit drove in the lead runner, and a critical error by CSN's pitcher allowed an additional unearned run, pushing Spoon River ahead 6-4. Despite a valiant effort in the bottom of the ninth, including singles by Camryn Hunkins and Jrew-Marie Mina, CSN could not capitalize with runners in scoring position, ultimately stranding the potential tying runs on base.
Pitching was a pivotal aspect of the game, with CSN using a committee approach. London Lamb started strong but was relieved by Aniya Edwards as Spoon River began to rally. Bryn Connors and Mckenna Cahoon also took the mound, with Cahoon being tagged with the loss after Spoon River's late-game surge. Olivia Young clinched the win for Spoon River, providing crucial relief in the ninth to shut down CSN's comeback attempt.
Offensively, CSN showed resilience and the ability to create opportunities. Camryn Hunkins and Marlene Saldate were notable performers, each collecting multiple hits and playing key roles in CSN's scoring efforts. However, Spoon River's ability to execute in clutch situations, combined with a few costly errors by CSN, ultimately led to the Coyotes' downfall.
This game was emblematic of the tournament for CSN, filled with highs and lows, demonstrating both the potential and areas for improvement within the team. The Coyotes showed flashes of brilliance throughout the Coyote Kickoff Classic, battling against strong teams and learning valuable lessons that will undoubtedly benefit them as they continue their season.
Despite the loss, the spirit and determination of the CSN Coyotes remain undimmed. As they move forward, the team will focus on refining their strategies, tightening their defense, and continuing to build on their offensive capabilities. With the end of the tournament, CSN looks to the remainder of the season with optimism and a renewed focus on growth and development, ready to face future challenges with the same tenacity and resilience displayed during the Coyote Kickoff Classic.
