Lady Royals Sweep Cumberland in Home Opener

KNOXVILLE, TN– The Johnson University Lady Royals softball team opened their season in thrilling fashion, securing a doubleheader sweep over the visiting Cumberland University Phoenix on Tuesday afternoon.

Game One: Lady Royals Rally for a 10-6 Victory

After waiting out multiple rainouts, Johnson (2-0) wasted no time making a statement. However, the game did not start in their favor. Cumberland jumped out to a quick 4-0 lead in the first inning, putting the Lady Royals in an early hole.

Rather than panic, Johnson responded immediately, tying the game with a four-run bottom half of the inning. The offensive outburst was led by Madisyn Thacker-Wolfe, who drove in five runs on three hits, and Audrey Moorhouse, who reached base in all five of her plate appearances.

A key four-run fourth inning gave the Royals control of the game, with Aly Dickerson and Thacker-Wolfe continuing to drive in runs. Lindy Webber went the distance in the circle, scattering eight hits and striking out five to earn the complete-game victory.

"We talk about staying calm and being in the moment," said Head Coach Dayna Carter. "Starting the game down 4-0 and coming back, battling the whole time—I could not be more proud of them."

Game Two: Early Lead Holds as Johnson Wins 8-6

The Lady Royals carried their momentum into the second game, striking early with a four-run first inning. Johnson's offense capitalized on shaky Cumberland pitching, with Ella Hampton and Reese Burns each driving in multiple runs.

Cumberland fought back, closing the gap to 6-5 in the sixth inning, but Madisun Pritchard battled through six strong innings to earn the win. Alyssa Nicely came in to shut the door in the seventh, picking up the save.

Moorhouse continued her strong day at the plate, adding two more hits and an RBI, while Hampton and Megan Armstrong each chipped in run-scoring hits.

Coach Carter emphasized the team's approach after the victories: "They did what we always talk about—playing loose, playing calm, being confident, and winning every inning."

With the season off to a perfect start, the Lady Royals will look to build on their early momentum as they prepare for their next matchup.