IRSC Brings College Softball to the Seminole Reservation in Brighton

April 29, 2022 Suzanne Seldes

Games are a launching point for an expanded partnership

OKEECHOBEE, FL— Members of the Seminole Tribe joined IRSC students and employees and Lady Pioneer fans at Indian River State College (IRSC) women's softball games played at the Seminole Brighton Reservation on Saturday, April 11. The IRSC Team won both games, defeating South Florida State College (SFSC) 2-1 and 3-2.

IRSC Softball team on the field

The IRSC games—the first played at the reservation—are one of several activities planned to support the growing relationship between the Tribe and the College.

"Our tribal members are strongly into sports, and softball is especially important to our reservation," shares Larry Howard, Seminole Tribe Brighton Reservation Council Representative. "We enjoyed hosting these games and look forward to expanding our partnership with IRSC and holding more games here at the reservation for many years to come. We hope that IRSC's presence here encourages our youth to get involved with IRSC sports and educational programs as student-athletes."

In the opening game, Bridgett Dunham's sacrifice fly drove in the winning run, scoring Daija Torchia in the hard-fought 2-1 victory. Sophomore pitcher Taylor Barrett tossed a complete-game one-hitter, striking out eleven SFSC Panther hitters.

In the second game, a 3-2 win, sophomore pitcher Taylor Wroten went the distance. Wroten allowed no earned runs, allowed three hits, striking out five. Cassidy Crump and Nikki Luzzi had two hits to pace the Pioneer offense.

Several Tribal members are IRSC graduates. Some have distinguished themselves both in the classroom and on the field, like decorated athlete Mary Huff. Huff is an alumna of the IRSC Softball Team and First Team All-Southern Conference pitcher.

"It was a spectacular afternoon, and we are grateful to Councilman Howard and the Tribe for inviting our players here," said Dr. Timothy Moore, IRSC President. "The Seminole Tribe and the College have a shared vision. Together, we will do everything possible to build the brightest futures for our youth."