In their first home game of the season, the Wenatchee High School Panthers softball team lost 15-6 to “stiff” opponent Mount Si, head coach Brent Grothe said.

Mount Si’s team also all plays select softball in the summer, so the Panthers knew it was going to be a tough game.

“It was exactly what we needed,” Grothe said. “I was impressed with our efforts. We’re excited for what’s coming up ahead, it’s gonna be a fun season.”

Even though it was a loss, Wenatchee players still did well. Junior Katelynn English went 3 for 4 with a double, and senior Baylee Fontaine went 2 for 4 with a double and two runs batted in, and freshman Riley Phillips went 3 for 3 with three RBIs. Wenatchee also had 12 hits, two more than Mount Si.

The Panthers need to work on their outfield game and smooth out a few things, Grothe said. However, he’s very optimistic and pleased with the season so far.

“We should be really competitive [this season],” Grothe said. “It was an excellent first game.”