Sports – Page 3 – Lake Weekly

OLLU Baseball Takes Down Prairie View In Slugfest

Our Lady of the Lake delivered a statement performance Tuesday, outlasting Division I opponent Prairie View A&M in a high-scoring 13–10 victory fueled by relentless offense and timely pitching.

The Saints piled up 21 hits across 45 at-bats, showcasing depth throughout the lineup and an ability to respond to every Prairie View surge. Jackson Kalisky led the charge with a dominant 5-for-6 performance, scoring three runs and consistently setting the tone at the plate. Drew Saucedo added three hits and two runs, while CaliEvan Billela-Barstow matched that output with three hits and two runs of his own.

Production came from every corner of the order. Brett Atkinson delivered one of the game’s biggest swings, driving in three runs while collecting both a double and a triple. Joshua Milton contributed two RBIs, and Jacob Cueva added a hit, an RBI, and a walk in a balanced offensive effort. Juan Garcia provided a key highlight with a home run, accounting for one of the Saints 11 RBIs on the day. Even in situational moments, the Saints executed, with Benjamin Hovda producing two sacrifice flies to bring runners home.

Prairie View A&M kept the pressure on throughout. Hunter Ham powered their offense with three hits and three RBIs, including a pair of doubles. Ryland Duson added four hits and two RBIs, while Basilio Williams contributed two runs and an RBI, highlighted by a triple. The Panthers drew seven walks and capitalized on opportunities, but ultimately could not keep pace with the Saints offensive volume.

On the mound, Our Lady of the Lake used a committee approach to secure the win. Ethan Garza earned the victory with 4.1 innings of work, allowing four runs while stabilizing the middle innings. Nolan Richardson closed the door despite a late push from Prairie View, striking out four over 2.2 innings to earn his second save of the season.

The Saints set the tone early and weathered multiple rallies, answering Prairie View’s six-run late-game surge with enough cushion built from earlier innings. Their ability to string together hits and produce with runners in scoring position proved decisive, as they left only nine runners on base despite the high offensive output.

Prairie View’s pitching staff struggled to contain the Saints after the early innings. While Ty Pankonin delivered two scoreless frames with five strikeouts, the bullpen as a whole surrendered 12 earned runs, allowing Our Lady of the Lake to break the game open in the middle innings.

In total, the contest featured 33 combined hits and constant momentum swings, but Our Lady of the Lake’s consistency at the plate and resilience on the mound ultimately secured an impressive win over a Division I opponent.

OLLU Men’s Golf Wraps Up Play At The Battle

At Laughlin Ranch Golf Club in Bullhead City, the Our Lady of the Lake University men’s golf team competed in a three-round NAIA event hosted by Wayland Baptist University. The tournament brought together a competitive field and required sustained consistency across all three rounds, with scoring conducted through a paperless official system.

OLLU was led by Niall Langley-Brook, who finished tied for 17th with a three-round total of 222. He opened with rounds of 76 and 76 before closing with a 70, one of the stronger final rounds in the field. His ability to improve in the final round demonstrated effective adjustments and a composed approach on a course that challenged players to maintain precision.

Ozil Trey Salinas finished tied for 68th with a total of 235, recording rounds of 77, 78, and 80. His scoring remained steady through the first two rounds before encountering a more difficult final round. Juan Limon followed with a 236 total, posting rounds of 77, 81, and 78, reflecting consistent play throughout the tournament. Alex Marshall recorded a 240 total with rounds of 81, 82, and 77, showing improvement in the final round. Fernando Limon rounded out the lineup with a 247 total, carding rounds of 82, 80, and 85.

At the top of the leaderboard, Patrick Neal of MidAmerica Nazarene University secured the individual title with a total of 212, highlighted by rounds of 74, 69, and 69.

Overall scoring trends reflected the demands of Laughlin Ranch, where maintaining momentum across multiple rounds proved challenging for much of the field. While several players recorded sub-70 rounds, fluctuations were common, particularly in the final round.

For OLLU, the event provided a clear assessment of performance against a strong NAIA field. The Saints finished T-19 in a very competitive field which happened to have the number one ranked team in the nation in Keiser.

Saints Softball Continues To Climb, No. 8 In Latest Coaches Poll

The latest NAIA Softball Coaches Top 25 Poll painted a familiar picture at the top which was dominance from the state of Oregon but just beneath that surface, a different story of steady excellence and rising credibility continued to unfold in Our Lady of the Lake University.

While Eastern Oregon claimed the No. 1 position, followed closely by Oregon Tech and Southern Oregon, the national conversation remained heavily focused on the shifting hierarchy among those top contenders. Yet, OLLU continued to do what it has done all season which was win games, build momentum, and quietly establish itself as one of the most consistent and dangerous teams in the country.

Ranked No. 8 with a 21-4 record, Our Lady of the Lake University stands not only as one of the top programs in Texas, but as a legitimate national contender. Unlike some of the programs at the very top that have fluctuated in recent weeks, OLLU has demonstrated a level of stability.

The poll itself reflects how competitive the NAIA landscape has become. Programs such as Oklahoma City and Southeastern University continue to draw first-place attention, while teams like Madonna University and Marian University remain firmly in the mix. However, OLLU’s presence in the top ten signals more than just a strong season, it reflects a program that has built a culture capable of sustaining success against elite competition.

What distinguishes Our Lady of the Lake University is not just its record, but the way it has earned it. Competing week after week, the Saints have shown resilience in close contests and composure under pressure. Their performance suggests a team that is positioning itself for a deep run in the postseason.

Saints, Drovers Trade Wins in Top-10 Showdown

Ninth-ranked Our Lady of the Lake split a doubleheader against No. 5 Science and Arts, dropping the opener 6-3 before responding with a 7-2 victory.

In Game 1, Science and Arts capitalized on timely hitting to secure the win despite being outhit 11-7. The Drovers struck early and built a steady offensive rhythm behind multi-hit performances from Kinzie Williams and Jordan Ramsay. Ramsay drove in two runs and scored twice, while Malea McMurtrey added a pair of RBIs.

Our Lady of the Lake generated consistent traffic on the bases but struggled to convert opportunities, leaving 12 runners stranded. Lilly Rocha led the Saints with a perfect 4-for-4 performance and an RBI, while Boston Tijerina added two hits and scored a run. Caitlin Casas contributed a pair of RBIs, and Arianna Alejandro chipped in two hits of her own.

Science and Arts pitcher Aubree Ferguson earned the complete-game victory, allowing three runs on 11 hits while working around three walks. Annika Litterio took the loss for OLLU, surrendering five runs, four earned, over 3.2 innings of work.

The Saints bounced back in Game 2 with a more efficient offensive showing, scoring seven runs on six hits while taking advantage of six walks. Arianna Alejandro reached base four times and scored twice, while Lilly Rocha continued her strong day with two hits and two RBIs. Caitlin Casas and Yezenia Perez each drove in a run, and Tania Rodriguez delivered a key two-RBI contribution.

In the circle, OLLU combined for a strong outing from Valeria Vielma and Annika Litterio. Vielma allowed one run over 3.1 innings, and Litterio closed the door with 3.2 innings of relief, striking out six and allowing just one run to earn the win.

Science and Arts managed six hits in the second game, with Kinzie Williams and Maddy Baber each recording an RBI. However, nine strikeouts and limited opportunities with runners in scoring position hindered their ability to keep pace.

With the split, Our Lady of the Lake demonstrated resilience against a top-five opponent, bouncing back from a Game 1 setback with a decisive win to close the doubleheader.

OLLU Drops Contest to Huston-Tillotson in One-Run Battle

Our Lady of the Lake dropped a tightly contested matchup to Huston-Tillotson, falling 5-4 despite outhitting the Rams 9-7.

The Saints generated steady offense throughout the game, collecting nine hits and putting pressure on Huston-Tillotson pitching. Joshua Milton and Benjamin Hovda each drove in a run, while Christian Martinez provided a spark off the bench with a pinch-hit double and later came around to score.

Jack Kalisky also crossed the plate for OLLU, and Diego Zuniga and Hovda each recorded multi-hit performances to lead the Saints at the plate. OLLU showed aggressiveness on baserunning as well, swiping three bases in the contest.

Huston-Tillotson answered with timely hitting, scoring five runs on seven hits. Trey Garza led the way with two RBIs, while Noah Alvarez, Jaden Corzine and Kendall Brown each contributed a run batted in. The Rams capitalized on key opportunities late to pull ahead.

On the mound, OLLU received a strong start from Josh Ruiz, who allowed just two hits and no earned runs over three innings while striking out four. The Saints used a bullpen by committee the rest of the way, with Ethan Garza, Matthew Sanchez, Xavior Salazar and Nolan Nicholson combining to cover the final five innings. Sanchez was charged with the loss after allowing two runs in his inning of work.

Huston-Tillotson starter Bryce Sanchez earned the win, limiting OLLU to one earned run over six innings, while Adrian German secured the save with three innings of relief.

The Saints will be back in action this weekend as they will travel to take on defending national champions in LSU-Shreveport.

Our Lady of the Lake Cruises to 7–0 Win at Home

Our Lady of the Lake University delivered a commanding performance at home, securing a decisive 7–0 victory over the University of Dallas in women’s tennis competition. Competing as part of the NAIA Red River Athletic Conference, OLLU controlled the match from the opening doubles contests through the final singles point demonstrating composure across the lineup.

The Saints established early momentum in doubles play. The pairing of Muller and Guerrero set the tone at the No. 1 position with a clean 6–0 result, applying constant pressure and limiting opportunities for their opponents. At No. 2 doubles, Laure and Peters mirrored that dominance with another 6–0 victory, showcasing strong communication and efficient net play. With the doubles point secured, OLLU carried confidence into singles competition.

In singles, the Saints continued their sweep with disciplined and focused performances on every court. At No. 1, Guerrero controlled the pace throughout, earning a straight-sets win, 6–0, 6–2. Pisar followed with a flawless 6–0, 6–0 victory at No. 2, maintaining precision from the baseline. Laure and Peters each delivered identical 6–0, 6–0 results at the No. 3 and No. 4 positions, respectively, reinforcing the team’s dominance.

The lower half of the lineup remained equally strong. Chambon secured another straight-sets win at No. 5, 6–0, 6–0, while Muller was awarded the No. 6 match by default, closing out the final point of the contest.

OLLU Men’s Tennis Dominates Doubles and Singles in Sweep

Our Lady of the Lake University men’s tennis team delivered a decisive performance at home, earning a 7–0 sweep over the University of Dallas. Competing with control throughout the match, OLLU established momentum early and maintained it across both doubles and singles play.

The Saints set the tone in doubles competition with strong showings across the courts. At the No. 1 position, Gailey and Olen secured a 6–3 victory, demonstrating effective coordination and steady shot-making. Jimenez and Castro followed with a 6–2 win at No. 2 doubles, extending the early advantage. The No. 3 doubles match was decided by default in favor of Bocquet and Ceolin, completing the doubles sweep and giving OLLU a firm lead heading into singles.

In singles play, the Saints continued their dominant form. Gailey earned a straight-sets victory at No. 1 singles, 6–1, 6–2, controlling the match from the baseline. Olen battled through a competitive contest at No. 2, ultimately securing the win in a match tiebreak, 6–0, 5–7, [10–7]. Castro added another straight-sets win at No. 3, 6–1, 6–2, maintaining pressure throughout.

Ceolin delivered a consistent performance at No. 4 singles, winning 6–2, 6–1, while Arzate matched that result at No. 5 with a 6–0, 6–0 victory. Bocquet was awarded the No. 6 singles match by default, sealing the final point of the contest.

OLLU Names Chris Seay Head Flag Football Coach

Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU) is proud to welcome a new addition to its coaching staff, bringing more than two decades of experience, a passion for student-athlete development, and a commitment to building a strong and supportive athletic culture.

Originally from Americus, Georgia, where he was also raised, the new coach began his journey in athletics at Iowa Wesleyan College. His path into coaching was rooted in community involvement, starting more than 20 years ago as a basketball and youth football coach in his hometown. What began as a way to give back quickly evolved into a lifelong profession dedicated to mentorship, leadership, and competitive excellence.

Over the course of 23 years, he has built an extensive and diverse coaching resume. His experience includes time at Immanuel Christian School in California, Thomas University in Georgia, Thomas County Central High School, Brookwood School, Americus Sumter High School, and Lee County High School. Throughout his career, he has served in a variety of roles, including Head Varsity Girls Basketball Coach, Head Varsity Boys and Girls Track and Field Coach, Assistant Varsity Boys Football Coach, Assistant Women’s Flag Football Coach, and Head Middle School Boys Flag Football Coach. This wide-ranging background reflects both his adaptability and his deep understanding of athlete development across multiple sports.

His dedication and impact have not gone unnoticed. Among his career highlights are being named Coach of the Year, Conference Assistant Coach of the Year, and Community Volunteer of the Year. These honors speak not only to his success on the field but also to his influence within the communities he has served.

Athletic Director Tom Norris commented,

“We are thrilled to welcome him to Our Lady of the Lake University. His extensive experience across multiple sports, combined with his commitment to developing student-athletes both on and off the field, aligns perfectly with our mission. He brings a passion for building relationships, fostering accountability, and creating a culture of excellence, and we are confident he will make an immediate and lasting impact on our program and our campus community.”

A key influence throughout his journey has been his father, whom he credits as his biggest supporter and a constant source of inspiration. That foundation has helped shape a coaching philosophy centered on developing the whole person, elevating athletic performance, and fostering a culture of excellence. He emphasizes discipline, accountability, and passion, encouraging his athletes to compete with confidence while supporting one another like family. His approach focuses on daily growth and collective success, with the belief that greatness is achieved together.

A devoted father, he has two daughters, ages 20 and 5, who remain at the center of his motivation and purpose. As he begins this new chapter at OLLU, he brings with him a wealth of experience, a heart for mentorship, and a vision for building a winning culture grounded in unity, growth, and excellence.

Litterio Wins Third RRAC Pitcher Of The Week Honors

The RRAC announces Texas A&M-Victoria’s Alyssa Carter as Softball Player of the Week and ninth-ranked Our Lady of the Lake’s (Texas) Annika Litterio as Pitcher of the Week for the dates of March 2-8. This is the sixth set of weekly awards.Senior right-handed pitcher Annika Litterio pitched in all four of the Saints’ games last week. She secured two wins – Freed-Hardeman, 9-8, and (22) William Carey, 4-2. She suffered one loss against (20) Mobile (Ala.), 2-1, and one no-decision to (10) Southeastern (Fla.), 1-0. Litterio pitched 18.1 innings, allowing three unearned runs, while striking out 14. Her ERA for the week is 1.15. She also added three assists..

Litterio has 11 wins and two losses, plus one save. She pitched in a total of 68 innings and struck out 83. She is second in the RRAC with a 1.34 ERA, and first in wins and in strikeouts. This is Litterio’s third Pitcher of the Week award.

OLLU is first in the conference with a 6-0 record and 16-3 overall. The Saints are ranked ninth in the latest NAIA Softball Coaches Top 25 Poll.

OLLU Women’s Tennis Battles Back for Narrow Victory Over Dillard

The Our Lady of the Lake University women’s tennis team faced a competitive set of matchups in recent play, navigating challenging opponents in Louisiana Christian University, Xavier University of Louisiana, and Dillard University. Across these contests, the Saints demonstrated the ability to secure critical singles and doubles victories, highlighted by several standout performances.

The season stretch began against Louisiana Christian University, where the Saints fell 4-1. In doubles action, OLLU found success on the third court, with Laure and Peters defeating Uchiyama and Ferrer Martinez 6-3, while the top two doubles matches went in favor of the Lady Wildcats. Singles play showcased competitive efforts from the Saints lineup. Uchiyama earned a key 7-5, 6-4 victory over Chambon at No. 6 singles, and Rodrigues contributed with a 7-5, 6-1 win over Pisar at No. 2. Despite these individual successes, Louisiana Christian captured the overall team victory, leaving OLLU with valuable experience and lessons from the match.

The Saints faced Xavier University of Louisiana, where they were narrowly defeated 4-0. The Xavier doubles teams secured the early point, including decisive wins over Pisar and Chambon and also Laure and Peters. In singles, OLLU’s Guerrero and Peters faced tough losses, while other matches were unfinished once the team result was determined.

In the most recent contest, OLLU earned a hard-fought 4-3 victory over Dillard University. The Saints captured the doubles point on the top court, with Pisar and Chambon defeating Chen and Peres 5-4, setting the tone for a tightly contested match. Singles victories from Guerrero (6-3, 6-4), Peters (6-4, 7-6), and Laure (6-3, 6-1) proved decisive, allowing OLLU to overcome deficits on other courts and secure the overall team win.

While early losses against Louisiana Christian and Xavier presented challenges, the team’s competitive spirit and ability to rebound against Dillard signal growth and promise as the season progresses. The Saints will be back in action against Texas A&M-Texarkana on Saturday.