Their consistent performance was highlighted by outscoring their opponents 40 to six. However, the timing of their six runs conceded led to a narrow loss in the semifinals.

“These young ladies consistently improved all summer,” coach Jason Weiland said. “We knew it was our time to shine at our home tournament. Unfortunately, we gave up six runs at the wrong time, which cost us dearly.”

One of the hallmarks of the Thundercats’ tournament play was their strategic maneuvers and base running.

“Some of our best plays were plays that teams did not expect,” Weiland said. “Our base running was amazing, and up until the semifinals, we only had two errors.”

News Photos by Leslianne Johns The Thundercats play in their home tournament, the Thunderstruck Tournament, on the softball fields at Alpena High School. The team made it to the semifinals, outscoring their opponents 40 to six over the weekend.

This level of strategic play and precision was crucial in helping the team advance through the rounds.

Individual performances stood out, particularly from pitchers Gretchen Weiland, Paige Samp, and Aubrey Weiland.

“Our pitching was stellar,” Weiland said.

Additionally, the coach highlighted the phenomenal efforts of their catcher, emphasizing that it was a true team effort.

Despite the semifinal loss, the team took away several positives. Having just won a 19-team tournament in Frankenmuth the previous weekend, they demonstrated their ability to compete at a high level.

Courtesy Photo The Thundercats stand together with their banner showcasing their sponsors. The team played in their home tournament over the weekend, ultimately losing in the semifinals.

“We constantly improved since the start of the travel ball season,” Weiland said. “The girls are amazing, and they will all be standouts for their respective schools next year.”

Looking ahead, Weiland is optimistic about building on this performance. The team, composed of younger players, faced opponents in the semifinals who were up to five years older, including three first-year college players.

“I believe we did amazing,” Weiland said. “If they continue to play the way they do, they’ll do great things.”

The experience of competing against older, more experienced players will serve as a valuable lesson and motivator for the Thundercats. Four of their players had conversations with college coaches last weekend, indicating their bright futures.

For Weiland, the most rewarding part of the tournament was watching the growth and development of the players.

“Just being their coach and watching them grow into competitive young ladies has been an amazing ride,” he said. “All these girls will do great things in the future and their future endeavors. I am very proud of these young ladies.”