Broncbusters Battle but Fall to Western Nebraska

Photo by: Adam Shrimplin/Garden City Athletics

Garden City, KS – Garden City Community College softball ran into a hot-hitting Western Nebraska Community College squad on Sunday at Tangeman Sports Complex, dropping both ends of a high-scoring doubleheader despite strong offensive production of their own.

The Broncbusters scored 23 runs on 26 hits across the two games, but Western Nebraska capitalized on timely power and big innings to secure the sweep.

Game 1: Western Nebraska 16, Garden City 13

The opener turned into an offensive shootout from the start. Garden City built momentum with a six-run fourth inning and later added two in the fifth, but Western Nebraska responded with a nine-run sixth that ultimately swung the game.

Jade Hendrix led the charge with three hits and three runs scored, while Maysen Kurene-Iwikau reached base consistently, scoring four times and driving in two. Maiarangi Waipara collected two hits and an RBI.

The biggest swing for Garden City came from Isabella Stevenson-Del Torto, who launched a home run and finished with five RBI. Izzy Foster added two hits and two runs, and the Broncbusters stayed aggressive on the bases with multiple stolen bags.

Western Nebraska answered with three home runs and 17 total hits, including a four-RBI day from Tina Horton. Despite the offensive push, Garden City couldn't overcome the late surge in the 16–13 loss .

Game 2: Western Nebraska 11, Garden City 10

The nightcap was just as tight, with both teams trading runs throughout. Garden City rallied with a four-run sixth inning to pull within one, but Western Nebraska held on late.

Danna Viera paced the offense with three hits and three runs scored. Maysen Kurene-Iwikau added four hits and two runs, while Maiarangi Waipara delivered a big swing with a three-run home run.

Reagan Sword recorded three hits and two RBI, and Averie Ashford reached base multiple times and swiped three bags as Garden City pressured the defense.

Western Nebraska's A. Arntsen proved the difference, driving in six runs and hitting two home runs to help secure the 11–10 decision .

While the results didn't go their way, the Broncbusters showed fight and offensive depth throughout the day against a tough opponent.

Next Up: Garden City travels to face Clarendon College on Tuesday, February 17th at Tangeman Sports Complex.