The magical run in what was a record-breaking season for the Tigers’ softball team came to an unfortunate and frustrating end on Friday at Secchia Stadium in East Lansing as the Tigers fell 8-0 in the Division IV state semifinal game to Holton.

“The outcome was not what we had hoped, but the journey this season and getting to the Final Four in East Lansing was so special because it was something the girls dreamed of,” Jonny Zawacki, Hillman softball assistant coach, said.

Errors hurt Hillman early as they fell behind 3-0 after one half inning and despite putting the ball in play, Hillman’s prolific offense couldn’t get anything going and were held scoreless on just four hits.

Autumn Kazyaka had a pair of hits to lead the way, while Madelyn Oswald and Saige Flaugher recorded the other two hits.

Courtesy Photo The Hillman High School softball team stands during the National Anthem before their state semifinals on Friday in East Lansing. The Tigers fell to Holton 8-0, but had an overall successful season with a 40-4 record.

Hillman committed five errors that led to four unearned runs as Gretchen Weiland pitched a complete game and struck out nine.

Despite the loss, Hillman finished the 2024 season with a remarkable 40-4 record and set numerous records along the way including the most runs scored by any team in MHSAA history (561) and also set school records for wins (40), runs (562), RBI (409), home runs (27), hits (469), doubles (120) and total bases (714).

“For our girls to buy into this new culture that was created in just one year says so much about them, not only as athletes, but individuals,” Zawacki said. “Most didn’t expect us to win districts, we weren’t portrayed as the heavy favorite, but we believed in ourselves all year, knew what we were capable of, played together for one another and won a conference, district and regional title. All 15 girls should hold their heads high and understand what they accomplished this year doesn’t happen often.

“40 wins, seven program records and one state record is what our 15 girls will be remembered for, along with the memories made and lessons learned along the way,” Zawacki continued. “The girls should be proud because I know the coaching staff, our fans and the entire community is proud of everything these girls achieved season.”