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Two BEA softballers named All-Conference

By Staff | Jun 25, 2017

“Both Ryanne and Grace brought immense leadership to the team this year,” says Blue Earth Area softball head coach Abby Bloomquist. “Not only did they take on that role as athletes, but their positions as catcher and shortstop required them to take command on the field. In addition to leading a young yet promising team, both of these young women were a force to be reckoned with on both sides of the ball.”

BEA seniors Ryanne Klabunde and Grace Leland were both named as Big South Conference Softball All-Conference Team members.

During the 2017 season Klabunde had 43 ABs, 14 hits, 7 BBs, a .325 average with 15 RBIs and 7 runs. Leland had 36 ABs, 17 hits, 8 BBs, a .472 average, with 15 RBIs and 11 runs.

“Grace Leland is an excellent shortstop who can cover a lot of ground and makes smart plays. Her biggest defensive asset, aside from skill and sheer strength, is her knowledge of the game,” says Bloomquist. “She’s a forward thinker who can anticipate and read the game well. She’s one of the strongest and smartest softball players I’ve seen, in Blue Earth or otherwise.”

The coach adds both athletes will be missed by the Bucs softball program, but add both young women had successful careers on the team, particularly the 2017 season.

“Ryanne Klabunde was behind the plate every game this season. Like Grace, Ryanne knows the game well and has the ability to read hitters, in turn making solid pitching calls. She also does a wonderful job of talking her pitchers through stressful situations and directs her defense well,” says Bloomquist. “Her biggest defensive asset was her solid, accurate arm. Assuming she got a good jump, runners didn’t stand much of a chance against her. I am very happy to see both receive All-Conference nods, as I feel they both are extremely deserving.”