Local Sports Journal

The Western Michigan Christian Warriors dropped their opening game against the host Lions at Saturday afternoon’s Newaygo Hardball Classic, but rebounded with a 4-2 win over Coopersville to split on the day.

Warrior Cam Waller logged his first career homer, but it wasn’t enough to counter a lively Newaygo offense. Waller finished with two hits, as did teammate Matt VanderPloeg, in the loss.

“Newaygo battled us and had a few more hits than we did,” said Chris Van Hekken. “We played well, just a couple of little mistakes on our end and we lose.”

Matt Milborne recorded two hits and Robby Merdaham scored two runs for the Lions.

Pitching proved to be the difference for the Warriors in their second game against Coopersville. Logan Waller and Coleman Brott combined to throw seven strong innings for Christian, “Keeping Coopersville off balance all game,” said Van Hekken.

Brott was credited with the victory.

Logan Waller hit a double to drive in the first run, and Cam Waller roped a double to score Jared Varnado to seal the victory. Samuel Goorman added a pair of hits in the win.