Castlewood claims historic second Class B softball title

Top-seeded Castlewood has secured its second Class B softball state championship, defeating second-seeded McCook Central/Montrose 9-2 on Saturday afternoon. The victory at the Players Softball Complex in Aberdeen cements Castlewood’s status as the first programme to win multiple titles in the four-year history of the class, as sanctioned by the South Dakota High School Activities Association.

The Warriors, who finished the season with a 21-4 record, overcame an early deficit to dominate the contest. McCook Central/Montrose, making its Class B tournament debut, took an early lead when Ella DeKnikker scored on an error and a passed ball before the first out was recorded. However, Castlewood quickly stabilised the game, tying the score in the bottom of the first inning before seizing control in the third.

Castlewood’s offence exploded for six runs in the third inning, capitalising on five extra-base hits, two singles, and a hit-by-pitch. The team recorded 13 total hits, eight of which were for extra bases, overwhelming the McCook Central/Montrose pitching staff. The Fighting Cougars managed only one additional run in the fifth inning, finishing their season with a 22-3 record.

Castlewood pitcher Claire Horn earned the win despite surrendering seven walks, recording nine strikeouts to limit the opposition’s scoring opportunities. The Warriors’ offence was led by Cydni Kudrna, who went 4-for-4 with a double, a triple, three runs scored, and one run batted in. Teammate Sophia Kudrna also contributed significantly with a double and a triple.

For McCook Central/Montrose, pitcher Zaidee Huls pitched a complete game but took the loss. The team’s hitting was led by Mya Morrison, Ashtyn DeKnikker, and Josalyn Traupel, who each recorded one hit. The result marks the third appearance for Castlewood in the Class B title game since the division’s inception, having also won the inaugural championship in 2023.

In other championship bracket action, Freeman/Marion/Freeman Academy defeated Redfield 9-3 to secure fifth place. Castlewood’s victory solidifies its dominance in the newly established Class B structure, having appeared in the title game in three of the four sanctioned seasons.