In a shocking twist, Great Bend Softball's historically great offense was held down, as their steady pitching staff was hit hard early, bringing an end to their stellar season with a 13-2 loss to St. Thomas Aquinas in Wichita.
GBHS starter Chayla Prendergast, who made her first appearance since returning from an ankle injury, came into the game boasting an ERA under 1.30. She and reliever Braelyn Turner, who has been the other usual starter for GBHS and has an ERA of 2.81 herself, combined to allow 10 runs in just three innings.
Great Bend was also held down offensively by a strong performance from STA starter Alayna Vaeth, holding Great Bend to just six hits and two runs over a complete game.
Great Bend finishes third in 5A softball with a final record of 23-2. It ties the best finish in program history.