The Benilde-St. Margaret’s softball team has solidified their spot in the state tournament. The team secured its place in the state bracket after earning a win over De La Salle with a score of 5-2. The win capped off the regular season filled with determination, teamwork, and standout performances.

The Red Knights finished the regular season with a record of 12-12, showcasing strong pitching, an immense amount of dedication, and love for the sport. The team is led by senior and junior captains Brooklyn Riley, Maddie Murry, Eleanor Porisch, and Mallory Held, who have helped create a supportive and passionate team. “For sections, we really got into a routine and, in a non-superstitious way, stuck to what worked for us. We have been practicing and playing a tough schedule all year, which has been preparing us for this upcoming week at state,” junior Eleanor Porisch said.

The state tournament will take place at Casewell Park for the quarter and semi-finals, and then at Jane Sage Cowles Stadium for the Championship game. BSM will face off against Chisago Lakes at 12:30 pm on June 3rd for the quarter-final game. The Red Knights have high hopes of advancing far into the tournament. “We are the 7th seed, however, all of the teams above us are very similar, and I feel confident we will have no trouble competing against them,” Porisch said.

As they prepare for their biggest challenge yet, the team isn’t just chasing after a trophy, they’re soaking up every moment together. For many seniors, it’s a final chance to bond with teammates who have become close friends. “I’m most looking forward to spending time with my teammates and experiencing the exciting atmosphere in Mankato during the state tournament,” junior Harper Wohlrabe said.

The trip to make it to state has taken dedication and perseverance. The team prepared for sections with intense practices and a winning mindset, and they’re bringing that same energy to state. “We need to play with grit and determination, staying focused on our ultimate goal and not being satisfied with just making it to state,” Wohlrabe said.

For now, the Red Knights are practicing hard and staying focused, with their eyes set on taking home the championship. Having put in the effort to come this far, the team is determined to bring home the championship. “The softball team has never won state before, but I feel confident that this is the best team that we have had, and as long as we come out strong, I think we can compete and get good results,” Porisch said.