Following multiple extra-inning games against Maryland, Penn State softball registered its best start to conference play since 2016 with back-to-back series victories.

“To be able to play nine innings and 12 innings, it comes down to just mental toughness,” head coach Clarisa Crowell said. “I truly do think that is what it took.”

In both wins, timely hitting was key for Penn State. Maddie Gordon and Liana Jones were at the forefront of the offensive push late in the games, specifically at the 12-inning conclusion of the series.

“I think we learned how to be tough because for Gordon and Jones to step up in that last inning and keep their composure and make adjustments, you got to be tough to do that,” Crowell said. 

Maryland pitcher Courtney Wyche presented a challenge throwing between 71 and 73 miles per hour, but Crowell was proud of her team for entering each at-bat with a clear head and not letting the frustration at the plate get to them.

“The next time we face a hard-throwing pitcher, that’s going to bode well for us because we were able to face Courtney,” Crowell said.

Crowell and her squad have posted a 26-7 record to begin 2024, and with 17 more games left in the regular season, every win counts en route to the NCAA Tournament.

“Our kids, they find their gritty and they find ways to win,” Crowell said. 

Leading in the win column, freshman phenom Bridget Nemeth has put up big numbers for the Nittany Lions with a 1.01 ERA and a 15-1 record. While this is just Nemeth’s first season of collegiate softball, her calm personality has been key in her success on the mound.

“She’s just a great kid, and her teammates love playing behind her,” Crowell said. “I do think that’s a big part of the success of a pitcher.” 

Moving forward, the Nittany Lions’ home stretch is coming to an end, and their first Big Ten road series of the season against Nebraska is nearing.

“We were on the road for the first four weekends. We were the road warriors,” Crowell said. “I think our kids are excited to get back on the road.”

The Cornhuskers are second in the Big Ten at 5-0, and Penn State follows closely behind in third at 5-1. This weekend will be a tough conference test for the Nittany Lions as the midway point of the season has passed.

“Our team is excited to be able to get to an environment like that and compete,” Crowell said.

Penn State softball will start its series against Nebraska at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, April 5, at Bowlin Stadium.