News Photo by Josh Jambor The Alpena Wildcats varsity softball team huddles during a game earlier this season. Alpena won both doubleheader games against Tawas Area on Thursday.

TAWAS – The Alpena Wildcats varsity softball team earned a dominant doubleheader sweep over Tawas Area on Thursday, improving their season with convincing victories in both games, 14-1 in game one, and 11-6 in game two. Alpena improves to 24-8 on the season.

In game one of the doubleheader Alpena jumped out to an early lead and sealed the win with a six-run seventh inning. Emma Darga earned the complete-game win, allowing just one run on four hits while striking out two.

Offensively, Paige Samp led the way with four RBIs, while Lexie Souva, Emalee Parsons, and Georgia Alberts each recorded two hits. The Wildcats recorded 13 hits and drew eight walks.

Game two was more competitive; however, the Wildcats were able to pull away for the victory. The bottom of the lineup provided a spark, as Emmi Ruby, Kaila Girard, and Claire Jarema combined for six hits, five runs scored, and eight RBIs. Ruby led all players with three hits.

Lexie Souva picked up the win on the mound, striking out seven while going the distance.

The Wildcats collected 12 hits in the nightcap.

Alpena Head Coach Paul Marwede discussed what he liked about his team’s effort as the Wildcats prepare for their final homestand of the year.

“We played well in all three facets of the game. Solid defense, timely hitting, and did a nice job of running the bases,” Marwede said. “Looking forward to hosting Pinconning on Tuesday.”

The first game of Tuesday’s doubleheader against Pinconning is scheduled to start at 4 p.m. The community is encouraged to come and cheer on the Wildcats during their final home series of the regular season.