Softball splits in opening games at Polson tourney

Might as well start the weekend with dramatics, right?

The Columbia Falls Wildkats had busy Saturday in Polson, securing a dramatic comeback victory over Hamilton before falling to a strong Belgrade squad to begin the 2025 season

Wildkats Rally for Eight-Run Inning to Stun Hamilton

Facing a 7-0 deficit heading into the bottom of the third, the Wildkats needed a spark—and they found it in a huge way. Columbia Falls erupted for eight runs in the inning to pull off an 8-7 victory over the Hamilton Broncs.

Hamilton jumped out to an early lead, scoring two runs in the first and four in the second before adding another in the third. Meanwhile, Columbia Falls struggled to generate offense through the first two innings, failing to record a hit.

But in the third, the Wildkats’ bats woke up. 

The big inning was enough to complete the rally, as Columbia Falls’ defense held strong to close out the game. Pitcher Ella Branstetter started the game, allowing six earned runs on seven hits over three innings while striking out two. Katie Bulawsky came in for relief in the final frame, allowing one earned run but keeping the Broncs from reclaiming the lead.

Annika Reid went 2-for-2, while Addy Bowler and Katie Bulawsky each smacked doubles to drive in runs. Onnikka Lawrence added a triple, and Sydnee Burke went 2-for-2 at the plate.

The Wildkats finished with nine hits, a strong showing after being held hitless in the early innings. Bowler led the team with two RBIs, while Lawrence, Bulawsky, and Kylie Gjesdal-Davis each drove in one.

Belgrade Hands Columbia Falls Tough Loss

The second game of the day proved to be more challenging for Columbia Falls, as the Wildkats fell 9-2 to Belgrade.

Belgrade put up four runs in the first inning and adding another four in the second. Columbia Falls managed to score one run in the bottom of the first and another in the third, but the offense was unable to mount another big comeback.

Bulawsky got the start on the mound but struggled with control, walking nine batters while allowing eight earned runs in just over an inning of work. Branstetter came in for relief, allowing just one hit and one earned run in 1 2/3 innings pitched.

At the plate, Columbia Falls mustered just two hits—one from Bulawsky, who also picked up an RBI, and another from Burke. The Wildkats were also hurt by two defensive errors.

Despite the loss, the weekend showed promise for Columbia Falls, especially with its comeback against Hamilton.