MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. – The Hilbert College Hawks and Eastern Mennonite Royals opened their 2017 softball seasons in an early morning game at the Fastpitch Dreams tournament.

After falling behind by three runs the first inning, the Hawks suffered a 4-1 loss to the Royals.

Freshman Nateal Papasergi knocked in Hilbert's solo run in the 2nd inning cutting the deficit to 3-1, but Eastern Mennonite responded with another run in the bottom half to build a 4-1 score.

Sophomore Morgan Grosch reached for a double on her first at bat and was joined by juniors Rebecca Bailey and Jenna Castricone with hits.  Grosch was pushed home by Papasergi after she stole 3rd base immediately after hitting her double-bagger. 

Grosch and Brittany Cooley turned a fielder's choice double-play in the bottom of the 5th to get the Hawks out of trouble.

Freshman Marisa McIntyre went four complete innings and struck out three in the loss.

Hilbert returns to action tomorrow with a 1:30 pm game against Eureka College and stay on the same field for a 3:30 pm tilt against Lehman.  Both games can be viewed on live (video).