Fort Dodge Dodgers Suffer First Loss of Season to West Des Moines Valley
Fort Dodge head softball coach Andi Adams is known for her relentless pursuit of improvement, even in the face of defeat. The Dodgers, ranked third in Class 4A, experienced their first loss of the season at the hands of the third-ranked (5A) West Des Moines Valley team, with a final score of 13-4 at Rogers Park.
Despite the loss, Adams sees this game as a valuable lesson for her team as they progress through the season. The Tigers dominated the game, scoring in five innings, hitting two home runs, and securing five other extra-base hits against the Dodgers, who had previously won six of the last nine meetings in the rivalry.
Adams remains focused on growth and learning from each game, emphasizing that the win-loss record is not her primary concern. She believes that facing tough opponents like Valley will prepare the Dodgers for the pressure of the postseason.
Valley’s impressive performance was led by players like Mackenzie Mohler, Kari Rose, Claire Long, and Paige Christenson, who all contributed significantly to the team’s victory. Despite the loss, Fort Dodge showed resilience, with players like Meah McCaleb, Macy Brown, and Lucy Porter making key plays throughout the game.
As the Dodgers regroup and prepare for their upcoming games, Adams is confident that the team will continue to improve and be ready for any challenges that come their way. The school also honored the 2021 Dodger state championship team with a ceremony before the game, showcasing their continued support for the program’s success.