News Summary
The No. 8 South Carolina Gamecocks concluded their softball season with a 5-0 defeat to No. 9 UCLA in Game Three of the Columbia Super Regional, missing the Women’s College World Series for the first time since 1997. Despite a predicted last-place finish in the SEC, South Carolina achieved a solid 44-17 record and set multiple single-season records under first-year head coach Ashley Chastain Woodard. The team displayed resilience but struggled offensively against UCLA’s pitching throughout the contest.
Columbia, SC – The No. 8 South Carolina Gamecocks ended their softball season with a disappointing 5-0 loss to No. 9 UCLA in Game Three of the Columbia Super Regional at Carolina Softball Stadium. This defeat means that the Gamecocks will not return to the Women’s College World Series (WCWS) for the first time since 1997, while UCLA advances to the prestigious tournament held in Oklahoma City.
Despite entering the season with low expectations, being predicted to finish last in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), South Carolina concluded their campaign with a commendable overall record of 44-17. Under the guidance of first-year head coach Ashley Chastain Woodard, the team made significant strides this year, including setting single-season records for RBIs, runs, walks, and doubles, while also tying the record for sacrifice flies.
In the decisive third game against UCLA, South Carolina struggled offensively, managing only two hits throughout the entire match. The Gamecocks’ best scoring opportunity came in the sixth inning, but they were unable to convert. The game’s scoring commenced in the first inning when UCLA notched their first run, courtesy of a single from Jordan Woolery. Starting pitcher Sam Gress faced an early jam but managed to escape without further damage in the initial inning.
As the game progressed, Gress pitched 4.2 innings, allowing five hits and two runs. She was replaced by Jori Heard, who took over pitching responsibilities. UCLA expanded their lead to 2-0 with another RBI single by Woolery in the fifth inning. Although Gress played effectively under pressure for much of the game, South Carolina ultimately succumbed to UCLA’s pitching prowess.
Kaitlyn Terry, the starting pitcher for UCLA, effectively limited South Carolina’s offense, as they struggled to generate runs against her. In the later stages of the game, the Gamecocks’ defense faltered, allowing three more runs in the seventh inning, which contributed to the final scoreline of 5-0. Heard’s pitching appearance concluded after this inning, leading to Nealy Lamb stepping in to wrap up the game.
South Carolina’s path to this point was marked by a series of closely contested games throughout the Super Regional. The team lost the first game 9-2, bounced back to win Game 2 5-4, and ultimately fell in the decisive Game 3. This performance exemplified the Gamecocks’ resilience throughout the postseason.
Coaching staff and players expressed a mix of disappointment and pride following their exit from the tournament. Coach Woodard acknowledged the hard work and determination displayed by her team over the course of the season, despite the outcome against UCLA. Furthermore, she highlighted the team’s difficulties with offensive production, citing high strikeout rates and a lack of walks as contributing factors to their challenges during the series.
Despite the setback of not qualifying for the WCWS, the South Carolina Gamecocks showcased considerable promise for future seasons. With a strong foundation established this year and the leadership of Coach Woodard, the team is positioned to build on their achievements and strive for success in upcoming competitions.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Gamecocks Softball Team Advances to Super Regionals
Additional Resources
- On3: South Carolina Softball Eligibility
- ESPN: South Carolina vs UCLA Game Summary
- Sports Illustrated: South Carolina Softball Season Review
- Wikipedia: South Carolina Gamecocks Softball
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Softball
Author: STAFF HERE HOLLYWOOD
The Hollywood Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHollywood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hollywood, Los Angeles County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Hollywood Bowl summer concerts, the Hollywood Christmas Parade, film premieres at TCL Chinese Theatre, and festivals at the Magic Castle. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and Visit Hollywood, plus leading businesses in entertainment, dining, and tourism that define the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELosAngeles.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HEREAnaheim.com, and HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
