The 8U team, sponsored by CoreWellness Chiropractic-Superior National Bank, went 5-0 on the weekend to earn the title.

They defeated Kaukauna 6-2 in the final game with a five-run fifth inning to overcome a 2-1 deficit. They also had wins over Escanaba and Gladstone in pool play.

The Crush girls were paced by strong pitching from Avery Pietila and Allie Mettlach. Defensively, they also had five double plays throughout the tournament.

Coach Phil Pietila was impressed with his team’s performance over the weekend.

The Copper Country Crush 12U team, sponsored by Keweenaw Chevy-Pats Foods, won the Escanaba Fall Ball tournament. Pictured in the back row (from left): Andrew Goldsworthy, Payton Goldsworthy, Lucy Biekkola, Romey Koskela, Sylvia Allen, Cali Hodges, Vera Pietila, and Craig Biekkola. In the front row (from left): Sophia Hampton, Marah Pomroy, Paige Nettel, Ellie Kuntze, Annika Schlief, and Ella Corrigan. (Photo provided)

“This was definitely the best softball we played all season,” he said. “The team defense was very strong, and we defeated some very talented teams. I’m very impressed with the commitment and focus these girls had all season.”

The Crush 8U team finished the season with a 22-4 combined record.

The 12U Crush team, sponsored by Keweenaw Chevy-Pats Foods, went 4-0 on the weekend to win their title.

They defeated Escanaba 6-3 in the final game. They also had wins over Marquette and Kaukauna behind strong pitching from Payton Goldsworthy and Lucy Biekkola.

Coaches Craig Biekkola and Andrew Goldsworthy were proud of their team’s play over the weekend.

“The batting really came alive when it mattered most,” said Biekkola. “We had key hits at the right times, and some outstanding defensive catches by Paige Nettle, Vera Pietila and Marah Pomroy.

“This group of girls accomplished something special. They set a Crush season record with a combined 24-2 record and won five championships over the season in mixed tournaments mostly in Wisconsin. Their hard work and commitment to softball was the key to their success.”