The Cardinals swept a doubleheader against Western Michigan Christian/Muskegon Catholic on May 19 to clinch the Lakes 8 championship.

"The girls and our coaching staff are pretty excited, but it's just one of our goals this season," Orchard View softball coach Chuck White said. "We want to make a run at districts."

Orchard View has used a lineup loaded with talented underclassmen, including four freshman this season. Starting pitchers Allie Tenhove and Halee Holman have been workhorses on the mound for the Cardinals, while sluggers Cassidee White and Matisen Gaunt have provided clutch hitting for the Cardinals. 

"I knew they were a talented bunch having coached them before taking the varsity job," White said. "They have this confidence about them and they play well ahead of their years."

While the freshman have put up strong numbers, the senior class has done its part as well with Hunter Keller, Mason Lysiak and Rochester College commit Jaelyn Eggerson all hoping to end their careers with a deep tournament run.

One thing is certain, Orchard View (29-6, 11-1 Lakes 8) will have the support of its fans when it opens district tournament play on May 30.

"We haven't been successful as a whole in athletics lately, so I think the community is really getting behind our team," White said. "In addition to the community support, our AD LeRoy Hackley has been at nearly every game showing his support. Just really nice to see everyone come out and support Orchard View softball."

The Cardinals have three regular season games left before facing Sparta (18-12) in the opening round of a challenging district bracket that includes Division 2 No. 5 ranked Muskegon Oakridge. Although the competition will be fierce, White believes the schedule has prepared his team for whoever they may face.

"We have faced every type of pitcher you could imagine. Nothing should surprise us for sure."