HICKORY, N.C. — The Catawba Valley Community College softball team earned a conference doubleheader split against Brunswick Community College on Thursday afternoon at Stanford Park, shutting out the Dolphins 8-0 in the opener before falling 11-6 in the nightcap.

Game 1: Catawba Valley 8, Brunswick 0

Catawba Valley set the tone early and never looked back in the opening game, combining efficient offense with a complete-game shutout on the mound from Reagan Garrett.

Garrett went the distance, scattering five hits over six innings while allowing no runs and striking out three. The Red Hawks' defense backed her with solid play, limiting Brunswick to eight runners left on base.

Offensively, Catawba Valley broke the game open with extra-base power. Samantha Gregory led the way, launching a two-run home run and going 1-for-2 with two RBIs and a run scored. Finlee Young was equally productive, finishing 2-for-2 with a double, two RBIs and two runs scored.

The Red Hawks totaled eight runs on eight hits. Paige Ford, Kadance Ward, Courtney Dean and Reagan Garrett each drove in a run as Catawba Valley plated multiple runs across the middle innings to secure the run-rule victory.

Game 2: Brunswick 11, Catawba Valley 6

Catawba Valley showed resilience in the second game, answering Brunswick's early first-inning surge, but falling short of a comeback.

The Red Hawks collected 12 hits and pushed across six runs highlighted by another strong showing from Gregory, who went 2-for-4 with a solo home run and an RBI. Alexa Moya went 3-for-4 at the plate, while Reagan Garrett drove in two runs from the designated player spot.

Garrett also provided stability in the circle, pitching six innings in relief giving Catawba Valley a chance to climb back into the game. Mallory Hines closed the contest allowing just one walk.

The Red Hawks return to conference softball play on Saturday for Sophomore Day against Fayetteville Tech. First pitch is set for 2 p.m. at Stanford Park.