Softball Opens Season in Alabama Against Tough Foes
GADSDEN, Ala. – The Alpena Community College softball team officially kicked off its 2026 campaign on Valentine's Day, traveling south to Gadsden State Community College for a challenging doubleheader against experienced opponents already deep into their seasons.
The Lumberjacks faced Georgia Highlands in the opening contest before taking on host Gadsden State in the nightcap, gaining valuable early-season experience against teams that have been competing for nearly a month.
In their season debut, the Lumberjacks showed flashes of competitiveness against a Georgia Highlands squad hitting on all cylinders. ACC struck first, posting a run in the opening frame to set an aggressive tone for 2026.
Dakota Rachow, Magdalyn Sandoval, Kirsten Neubecker, and Jordan Ashley anchored the starting lineup as the Lumberjacks battled against an opponent already in midseason form. ACC added single runs in both the second and third innings, demonstrating the ability to manufacture offense through different stages of the game.
The team collected seven hits on the day, with multiple players contributing to the offensive effort. On the mound, Jordan Ashley and Jenna Sircely combined to record eight strikeouts, showing the potential of the Lumberjacks' pitching staff.
Sircely provided a spark in her relief appearance, striking out two while limiting the damage. The sophomore made a statement at the plate as well, recording one of ACC's seven hits on the afternoon.
The nightcap against host Gadsden State Cardinals proved to be a defensive battle, with the Lumberjacks keeping the game competitive through four innings despite facing another well-established program.
Ashley drew the start in the circle and battled through 2.1 innings against a talented Cardinals lineup. Sircely again provided quality relief work, tossing 1.2 innings while recording two more strikeouts to build on her strong opening day performance. Between the two games, the freshman struck out four batters, announcing her arrival at the collegiate level.
Offensively, the Lumberjacks managed to put runners on base with Sircely delivering ACC's lone hit of the contest – a single to right field in the fifth inning. Rilee Tracy also reached base via walk, showing patience at the plate in her first collegiate action.
The challenging season-opening doubleheader provided the Lumberjacks with exactly what they needed: high-level competition to establish a baseline for the 2026 season. Facing two teams already a month into their schedules gave ACC's coaching staff valuable insight into areas of focus as the team continues its development.
Sircely emerged as a bright spot across both games, collecting a hit while recording four total strikeouts in her pitching appearances. Her versatility and composure in her collegiate debut bodes well for the Lumberjacks moving forward.
The experience gained in Alabama will prove invaluable as the Lumberjacks continue their season, having now faced live competition and understanding the pace of college softball. With a talented roster featuring players like Rachow, the Neubecker cousins (Kirsten and Alaina), Ashley, Sandoval, Rospierski, and others, ACC has the foundation to build momentum as the season progresses.
The Lumberjacks return to action today, Feb. 15 with a doubleheader against Gadsden State as they continue building toward their conference schedule, armed with the lessons learned from their Valentine's Day voyage to the Heart of Dixie.
For complete schedules, rosters, and updates on ACC softball, visit the Lumberjacks athletics website.