In just their second season in existence, Madison’s summer collegiate softball team is in a bid for the championship title. This week, the Madison Night Mares are in the middle of a best-of-three series for the Northwoods League against the Minot Honey Bees. The two teams faced off 10 times in the regular season, with the Night Mares winning nine of those games.
Here’s a recap of how the Night Mares got here – and what to watch for in the playoffs.
Night Mares Dominate the Regular Season
The Madison team came out as the top seeded team in the league with an impressive 35 wins and 7 losses, including a 16-game winning streak in July. The Night Mares also claimed player of the year (Hilary Blomberg), pitcher of the year (Karlie McKenzie), and coach of the year (Lexi Godwin) in the league awards. Six Night Mares, including McKenzie and Blomberg, were also selected for the NWL Softball Postseason All-Star team.
First-year head coach Godwin told the Cap Times, “pitching has kind of been the separator for us." The team’s top pitcher McKenzie held a 10-0 record in regular season, while pitchers Paytn Monticelli and Kendall Weik both maintained impressive 7-1 records.
Godwin also credits the team’s dominance to strong hitters, including Blomberg, who leads the league with 11 home runs and 47 RBIs. The fans have been rooting for their home team with an average attendance of about a thousand.
Night Mares Won Game One on Monday Night
The Night Mares and the Honey Bees squared off in North Dakota on Monday night. Dozens of fans showed their spirit by gathering at the Harmony Bar to watch the game together online. The Madison team took home the win with a 10-2 final score.
How to See Tonight’s Championship Game
The Night Mares will be back home in Madison to face the Honey Bees again Wednesday at 6:05 p.m. at Warner Park. Tickets can be purchased online or at the box office. The game can also be streamed online courtesy of the Northwoods League.
If the Night Mares lose tonight and the series goes 1-1, the deciding Game 3 will be played tomorrow – same time, same place.
For more, City Cast Madison host Bianca Martin spoke with team general manager Samantha Rubin last year before the Night Mares inaugural season.
