WHITEWATER, Wis. – Carroll University softball faced a tough test on Thursday afternoon, falling 7–1 to No. 17 Wisconsin–Whitewater in Game One of a scheduled doubleheader at van Steenderen Softball Complex. Game Two was rained out and has been postponed, with a makeup date to be determined.

The Pioneers went toe-to-toe early with the nationally ranked Warhawks, as the game remained scoreless through the first three innings. Carroll put runners on base in both the first and second innings but was unable to capitalize against Whitewater starter Josie Hammen.

Wisconsin–Whitewater broke through in the bottom of the fourth, scoring six runs in the frame. The inning was highlighted by a three-run home run from Rachel Radish, giving the Warhawks control of the game after a series of timely hits and extended at-bats.

Carroll answered in the top of the fifth when Addison Leck launched a solo home run to left field, cutting into the deficit and providing the Pioneers' lone run of the afternoon. Leck finished 2-for-3 at the plate, while Abigail Curtis and Gianna Buske also recorded multi-hit games for Carroll.

Whitewater added an insurance run in the bottom of the fifth to extend the lead to 7–1, and Carroll was unable to mount a late rally despite putting runners on base in the seventh inning.

In the circle, Makayla Wall took the loss for Carroll after allowing four runs in 3.2 innings of work, while Makayla Grantz provided solid relief out of the bullpen.

With inclement weather moving into the area, the second game of the doubleheader was postponed. A makeup date for the contest is currently to be determined.The next matchup for the Pioneers comes Monday for a doubleheader as they host Concordia (Wis.) in their home opener, with the first game scheduled for 3pm.