The Hinds Community College softball team started the 2026 season with a flawless record at the Mardi Gras Invitational in Youngsville, Louisiana. The Lady Eagles secured victories over Angelina College, Baton Rouge Community College, and Gulf Coast State College, finishing 3–0 in the tournament.
Hinds defeated Angelina College 7–5. The Lady Eagles took an early lead with a run in the second inning and added to their score with key hits from Aubrie Carter and Jalia McDaniel. Sophomore Jazmin Robertson pitched three innings, allowing two runs, before freshman Abby McLean finished the game in relief, surrendering three runs over four innings.
In their second game, Hinds beat Baton Rouge 9–3. The Lady Eagles scored early, with two runs in the first inning. Claire Mellard made her collegiate debut on the mound, pitching a complete game and recording four strikeouts. The offense was fueled by doubles from Carter, Mackenzie Smith, and Alyx Hall, which helped break the game open in the sixth inning.
The final game saw Hinds rally from a four-run deficit to beat Gulf Coast State 14–12. Trailing 4–1 in the third, Emma Hudson delivered a double to drive in two runs. The Eagles tied the game in the fourth but fell behind again in the fifth. A late rally, highlighted by Hudson’s solo home run and Galloway’s clutch hit, culminated in a walk-off win. Galloway’s fifth-inning hit drove in her fifth run, sealing the victory and completing the tournament sweep.
The Lady Eagles are scheduled to return to Louisiana on February 10 for a doubleheader against Baton Rouge Community College. They will look to carry their momentum into the next matchup beginning at 1 p.m. Follow Hinds Athletics updates on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
