The softball team lost 10-0 to Shaler in the WPIALS semifinals on Thursday.

Junior Emily Golembiewski said that Shaler’s pitcher, Bria Bosiljevac, was a major challenge for the Highlanders.

“She’s definitely on a different level than what we’ve been seeing,” Golembiewski said. Bosilijevac moved quickly and was difficult to keep up with, she said.

Shaler’s offense had a strong game. They were able to hit what Baldwin’s pitchers threw, Golembiewski said.

“They scored many runs, and in one inning, I feel like we got down on ourselves,” she said. She said Shaler had good hits while Baldwin struggled in that area until the last inning.

Despite the challenges, Golembiewski said the Highlanders’ maintained their energy in the dugout. She said senior Reese Temme encouraged the team to stay motivated throughout the game.

“She was up the entire time,” Golembiewski said. “She was telling us, ‘We got this.’ ” 

She said Temme’s motivation kept the team calm under pressure. Senior Mackenzie Bowen also helped maintain the team’s positivity.

“She hit a ball, and I feel like we all got our energy back up,” Golembiewski said.

Despite the loss, this was a big season for the Highlanders. Golembiewski said it was a great experience for the team to make it all the way to WPIAL semifinals.

“It was awesome that we made it this far,” Golembiewski said. “We definitely could’ve gone farther, though.”