The Warrenton and Wright City softball teams met for their annual non-conference game on Sept. 13. After a few close innings in the beginning of the game, the Warriors walked away with a 9-6 victory over the Wildcats. 

Warrenton Head Coach Chad Berrey noted it’s always a little nerve wracking to play their county rivals, despite it not being a conference game or a district opponent. 

“Anytime you play Wright City, it means something in the community, in the school. Whatever sport it is, it means a lot to this community, so we wanted to get it done for them,” Berrey said. 

Makalya Witthaus, a center outfielder for Warrenton, came into the game knowing how important it was to win. She spent the day getting mentally ready and practiced hitting before school, which in the end paid off. 

Witthaus helped her team to a win with two runs, one double, one RBI and one stolen base. Off the field, she noted the team was successful in motivating one another. 

“We were never quiet, we celebrated the bigs and got over the lows. Every game has them, but we got over those quickly and didn’t let anyone sit there and think about what they did wrong,” Witthaus said. 

Warrenton had numerous players add runs to the scoreboard. Kiera Daniel led with three runs, Audrey Lanzone had two runs and one double and Adee Morgan and Gracelyn Sitton had one. In addition, Caydynce Haverfield hit a double. 

Wright City didn’t go down without a fight. Paige Rees had two runs, Sadie Sehnert had one run and Sophia Wegrzyn had three runs including a powerful home run. 

Wright City Head Coach Fred Ross said the homerun helped the Wildcats get back in the game. However, the three runs Warrenton scored in the bottom of the third inning was the turning point of the game and they were unable to catch up.  

Wright City currently has a few girls in different positions, including the outfield and shortstop. Lorelai Kellner also played her first game back at second base. 

“We’re just trying to find a way to get some chemistry and get people in the right position,” Ross said. 

Ross is hoping to see the team improve on getting the third out and having a well-rounded batting lineup. He added his young pitcher, Ava Swaringen, did a great job on the mound and is looking forward to watching her grow as she gains more experience. 

Berrey added he is seeing his team get better and better as the season carries on and they just have to keep taking care of business. 

Wright City will play again in their second tournament of the season at Fort Zumwalt East from Sept. 19-21.  Warrenton will play Holt for the second time this season on Sept. 24. The Warriors have previously beaten Holt 8-6.