HUNTSVILLE, Texas - The University of Dayton softball team opened its 2022 season with games against Houston Baptist and No. 25 Wichita State on the first day of the Bearkat Classic hosted by Sam Houston at its Bearkat Softball Complex.

Dayton (0-2) dropped a 2-0 decision to Houston Baptist (1-1) in the tournament's first game Friday before falling to 25th-ranked Wichita State (1-0), 13-5 (6) in its afternoon game.

GAME ONE
Houston Baptist 2, Dayton 0
• 6 - senior Kelsey Gumm recorded six strikeouts - just one off her Dayton career high, working a complete game in the circle for the Flyers
• 5 - senior Megan Gist recorded five assists at third base and also picked up a single in her first at-bat of the year
Winning Pitcher: L. Swanson (1-0) - 7.0 IP, 9 Ks
Losing Pitcher: Gumm (0-1) - 7.0 IP, 6 Ks

GAME TWO
Wichita State 13, Dayton 5 (6)
• 4 - sophomore Kara Gunter collected four RBI on her first-inning grand slam
• 2 - both junior Emily Daniel and freshman Emma Schutter posted multi-hit games
Winning Pitcher: C. Bingham (1-0) - 6.0 IP, 3 Ks
Losing Pitcher: Sarah Bailitz (0-1) - 3.1 IP

COACH'S QUOTE
"Our team made huge strides on day one. We saw tremendous progress in our offensive production and in creating opportunities. The pitching staff had several quality innings and our defense made quick adjustments. Despite the outcomes not in our favor, we're encouraged by the unwavering commitment to our processes and we look forward to our next challenge tomorrow." - head coach Cara LaPlaca

UP NEXT
Dayton will play two more games in the Bearkat Classic on Saturday. UD will open the day against South Dakota at 11 a.m. followed by a 3:30 p.m. matchup against host Sam Houston. Click here for more information.

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