Rochester, Mn--

Despite cool temps and storms the night prior, the NJCAA Division III Softball national tournament began without a hitch in Rochester, Thursday, May 18th.  

Minnesota College Athletic Conference softball teams representing Itasca Community College and St. Cloud Technical and Community College had different levels of success on the first day, as the top eight teams in the nation squared off in the tournament.  

Itasca Community College met a buzz-saw in Herkimer College; falling 11-0 to the Generals.  ICC's second game saw more offense from the Vikings, putting up 5 runs.  Unfortunately, Brookdale doubled-up that total, plus one, emerging as 11-5 victors over Itasca CC.  With the two-loss day, Itasca will compete in the 7th place game tomorrow at noon. 

St. Cloud Technical and Community College was able to get off to a strong start- rolling over Onondaga in their opener, 11-3.   The second round was a bit different story for the Cyclones; facing the nation's top ranked team, Rock Valley, the MCAC Southern Division regular season champion fell in shutout fashion,  7-0.   By going 1-1 on the opening day, St. Cloud Technical and Community College will take the field again at 10am against Brookdale, needing a win to stay in contention for the national title. 

Be sure to visit: www.rochsports.org  for the full NJCAA Division III Championship information. 

Story courtesy of MCAC Sports