MURFREESBORO, N.C. – The Virginia Union University softball team split a CIAA doubleheader with Chowan University on Wednesday, March 18, earning a 5–3 victory in the opener before falling 10–2 in game two in Murfreesboro, North Carolina.

The Panthers' win in the first game marked Virginia Union's first victory over Chowan since 2014.

Game 1 – Virginia Union 5, Chowan 3
Virginia Union jumped out to an early lead and maintained control throughout the game to secure the 5–3 win. The Panthers were aggressive on the basepaths and capitalized on scoring opportunities at the plate while the defense backed a strong pitching performance.
Elisia Gonzales-Pettis led the effort in the circle, mixing her pitches effectively to keep the Hawks' hitters off balance. The Panthers' defense supported the performance with solid fielding to preserve the lead.

Game 2 – Chowan 10, Virginia Union 2
In the second game of the doubleheader, Chowan capitalized on Virginia Union miscues to take control early. The Panthers struggled to recover after allowing the Hawks to build momentum, as defensive errors proved costly.

Coach's Comments
"In game one everything clicked for us—we took an early lead and never looked back," said Virginia Union head softball coach Dominique Mulero. "We were aggressive on the base path and smart at the plate. Elisia Gonzales-Pettis mixed pitches well today and the defense played solid behind her.
"In game two we came out a little flat and allowed the errors to hurt. We couldn't find a way to stop the bleeding and against a team like Chowan they will play on your mistakes. We're going to regroup and prepare for Saturday."

Up Next
Virginia Union will return home to face Elizabeth City State University at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 21, at the VUU Softball Field in Richmond.