Maryknoll Defeats Campbell 9-4, Advances to Softball Championship

MANOA, Hawaii — Sheyzhelle Iokia’s grand slam in the fifth inning led Maryknoll to a 9-4 victory over Campbell in the semifinals of the DataHouse Division I state softball tournament on Thursday night at Rainbow Wahine Softball Stadium.

The second-seeded Spartans, now 14-4, will face top-seeded Mililani at 7:30 p.m. for the championship title. Maryknoll is seeking its first title since 2022, after a two-year hiatus due to COVID-19.

Campbell had briefly tightened the score to 5-3 in the fifth inning with Skylynne Gonzalez’s pinch-hit two-run home run, followed by a homer from Taylor Mendoza. However, Iokia’s decisive hit followed shortly after, giving Maryknoll a comfortable lead.

“I had a feeling she would pitch me down the middle, so I was ready for that pitch,” said Iokia, who leads the state with 10 home runs this season. “I knew it would clear the wall when I hit it.”

Maryknoll’s starter, Kasi Cruz, delivered an impressive performance on the mound, scattering five hits and three walks while striking out seven batters in a complete-game victory.

Iokia’s earlier home run in the third inning extended Maryknoll’s lead, showcasing her pivotal role in the game. “You can never count Campbell out,” said Maryknoll coach John Uekawa. “But we have great two-out hitting.”

In another semifinal, Mililani overcame a 5-0 deficit to defeat Punahou 19-5, extending their remarkable scoring streak, as they look to claim their fifth title. Mililani’s ace, Hinano Bautista, contributed to the victory both on the mound and at the plate with a three-run homer.

As the championship approaches, Maryknoll is determined to capitalize on their young but talented roster. The Spartans contain eight freshmen and sophomores, reflecting the team’s potential for future success.