The NAIA No. 2-ranked OLLU softball team defeated Hope International University (HIU) 2-0 in both games on May 17 to claim the NAIA Opening Round San Antonio Bracket title – and advance to the NAIA World Series for the first time in program history.

The Saints will compete in the week-long World Series, starting Thursday in Columbus, Ga.

“I am super proud,” said OLLU softball Coach Bruce Lenington. “They were rock solid in the whole tournament and they kept to our game plan.” 

Saints pitcher Cassandra Valdez threw a 1-hit shutout to defeat HIU 2-0 in the first game on May 17. She came back in the second game and threw four strong innings in relief, allowing only two hits.

The Saints were seeded No. 1 for the NAIA Opening Round and finished with a 4-1 record. Hope was the No. 2 seed.