Niwot softball advances to Sweet 16 after strong Regional performance

The Niwot High School softball varsity team has secured its spot in the state Tournament of 16 after an impressive showing at the Colorado High School Activities Association Class 4A Regionals in Pueblo, Colorado, Oct. 18 and 19. The team demonstrated resilience and skill, finishing with a 2-1 record in the round of 32.

In their opening game against the Palisade High School Bulldogs, the Cougars emerged victorious with a tight 2-1 win. Standout pitcher Kianna Butler dominated from the circle, recording an exceptional 17 strikeouts. The offense was led by Butler and Anna Halverson, who each collected two hits, while Payton Stokes made an impact on the basepaths with two stolen bases.

The team faced a setback in their second game, falling to Pueblo County High School, 10-0. Mandy Roth pitched for Niwot, facing a tough Pueblo County lineup that managed 12 hits and 10 runs. Despite the loss, Niwot's offense showed signs of life with hits from Saleen Amaya, Simone Paterno, May Herrera, Madison Dodge, and Roth.

The Cougars bounced back strong in their final regional game, defeating Green Mountain High School 3-1. Butler returned to the circle in dominant fashion, striking out 12 batters while limiting Green Mountain to just two hits and one run. The offense struck early, with Halverson delivering a crucial triple in the first inning that drove in two runs. Payton Johnson followed with a double to bring Halverson home, providing all the runs Niwot would need. Green Mountain managed a lone run in the fourth inning, but couldn't overcome Niwot's early lead.

Coach Bobby Matthews emphasized the value of postseason experience while acknowledging that each year brings unique challenges. "Each year is different as you face different teams with different players, but having the experience of being there is a huge asset. Understanding how to prepare your team and all the little things, like where to warm up, where to drop the team off, how bad traffic is, how strict pregame is, all is something that can help ease some of the stress the players are feeling."

Drawing on last year's playoff run with many returning players, Matthews described his role as preparing the team while letting them play naturally, focusing on putting themselves in positions to succeed.

"A lot of this team was there last year so my job is to help prepare them and to just let them play," he said. "Guide them where they need me but above all help put them in a situation that they can use their abilities and play the game they love."

With this performance, the Cougars advanced to the Sweet 16 and will continue their championship pursuit against Holy Family High School at Aurora Sports Park on Friday, Oct. 25 at 10:00 a.m.