Cameron Collegian Spring 2024 Issue #4

Collegian T he Cameron University

www.aggiecentral.com

Monday, February 26, 2024

Volume 110 Issue 4

Cameron's golden

homecoming Brittney Payette Managing Editor

From Feb. 19-22 the Events & Activities office hosted Cameron’s 2024 Homecoming. This year’s theme was “Cameron: a Golden University.”

According to Director of Events & Activities Dr. Leslie Cothren, this Homecoming celebrates the 50th anniversary of the naming of Cameron as a University instead of a college.

Cothren said she enjoys seeing people at the Homecoming events and activities.

“My goal for Homecoming is just to get everyone to feel a little more connection to each other and Cameron University,” she said.

“Through the events and decorations and t-shirts, I hope everyone realizes they are part of the Aggie Family and that we all have a commonality.”

Cothren said her office prepares for Homecoming in advance.

“To prepare for Homecoming,” she said, “my office worked to design the logo, ordered the t-shirts, prepared the foam C’s for decorating, communicated with organizations about their involvement opportunities, helped PAC set up their events for the week, planned our own events for the week, purchased and assembled decorations for the MCC and across campus, and communicated out the t-shirt distribution and sales to students, faculty, staff, and alumni.”

Cothren also said that University organizations nominate a member to run for Cameron Monarch.

The sorority Alpha Phi nominated Criminal Science major Trinity Hoffman.

She said that her favorite part about Cameron is how the class sizes are small and everything is really close together.

“I would like to win Cameron Monarch because it would help my organization get their name out there as well as be a fun experience for me,” Hoffman said.

The Baptist Collegiate Ministries nominated senior Business Administration major Marshall Sadler.

He said his favorite thing about Cameron is its diversity of people.

He likes that there are people not only from Oklahoma, but also from

other states and other countries as well.

“I have enjoyed getting to meet people and develop friendships,” he said. “Once I leave Cameron, I won't be able to think about my experience here without thinking of the people I have met.”

Sadler said that becoming Cameron’s Monarch would be a nice way to end Photo by his Cameron Ramona Villegas Career.

“Various students, staff, and faculty have said that it seems like I have met everyone,” he said. “While I can't say that statement is true, the campaign for Monarch will show if I got close.”

Senior Cellular and Molecular Biology major Alexandra Moya received her nomination for Cameron’s Monarch from the Biology Club.

Moya said her favorite part of Cameron was the relationships she cultivated.

“Starting (out) I was more reserved about expressing things,” she said. “But through my involvement and time on campus I have been able to surpass any prior limitations and really show what I am about.”

She said she wants to be Cameron’s Monarch because throughout her four years at Cameron, she learned what it means to be an Aggie.

The Biology Club nominated another member, senior Biology Major Carolyn Tyler.

Tyler said her favorite part of Cameron is the oneon-one interactions the students get to have because of the small class sizes.

She said she looked forward to the experience of

running for Monarch.

“As a 2020 graduate, I never got my own prom, homecoming, or graduation,” Tyler said. “So as a 2024 college senior, I wanted to have the experiences I didn’t get to have even if that means not winning; just having fun with my friends is enough!”

Alpha Phi nominated junior Chemistry major Zoey Dean.

Dean said her favorite part about Cameron was the ability to foster connections with her professors because of the small setting.

“Every professor I have had during my time at Cameron has been so focused on us succeeding and genuinely want to help their students,” Dean said.

Additionally, she said she wants to be crowned as Cameron’s Monarch so she can represent both Alpha Phi and Cameron.

“Being the president of Alpha Phi, I love to represent and talk about my organization,” she said, “because it means (so) much to me and I think this would be a great way to get our name out to potential women who might be interested in “My goal for joining our sisterhood!”

Homecoming is Elijah just to get everyone Robertson, to feel a little more who was also connection to each a candidate nominated other and Cameron for Cameron's University.” homecoming - Leslie Cothren court, was Director of Events and unavailable for Activities comment.

Senior Computer Science major Dylan Griggs received his nomination from his fraternity Kappa Sigma.

Senior Computer Science major Dylan Griggs received his nomination from his fraternity Kappa Sigma. He said his favorite thing about Cameron is the people.

“I transferred here from OU,” he said. “And I love the sense of community that Cameron has offered me since I have been here.”

Griggs also said that he wanted to be Cameron’s monarch because it would be something he would be proud to tell his Mom about.

Last year's monarch, Nathan Weston, crowned the new monarch at the halftime of the Men's Basketball game on Feb. 22 in the Aggie Gym. Cameron's new Monarch is Griggs.

For more information about the Events & Activities office, email lcothren@cameron.edu.

Photo by Brittney Payette

What’s Inside

A brush with destiny

Confession Post

Homecoming Dance

Page 2

Page 3

Page 5

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News

February 26, 2024

www.aggiecentral.com

The Cameron Art Department

Creativity, Innovation, and Imagination

Photos by Hannah Owens

Hannah Owens News Editor

Nestled within the walls of Cameron University lies a variety of art studios buzzing with student activity and creative pursuits.

The department prides itself on cultivating a diverse array of talents, encouraging students to explore various medias and techniques to find their unique voice in the world of art. It serves as a beacon for aspiring artists, sculptors, designers and painters, fostering an environment where passion meets proficiency and dreams are nurtured into reality.

At the heart of the department’s success is its dedicated faculty, comprised of seasoned artists and educators who bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the table.

Professors not only impart invaluable knowledge but also serve as mentors, guiding students through their artistic journey with personalized attention and constructive feedback.

Advanced art student Jaden Pebeahsy said her favorite part about the art department is the faculty.

“If you’re just super close you can talk about anything, get opinions on anything,” Pebeahsy said. “It’s just super helpful — the comfort and the reliability.”

One of the department’s standout features is its state-of-the-art facilities, which provide students with access to cutting-edge tools and equipment.

From fully-equipped studios for painting, drawing, sculpture and printmaking to a digital lab equipped with the latest software for graphic design and multimedia projects, students have everything they need at their fingertips to bring their artistic visions to life.

Art Professor Jack Crouch holds many responsibilities, some of which is to maintain these amenities and resources.

“We have really great facilities,” Crouch said. “And those facilities, as long as they’re maintained … will be in place for a long time.”

Perhaps the most invaluable aspect of the Art Department is its sense of community. Here, students form bonds that extend beyond the confines of the classroom, united by their shared

passion for creativity and expression.

Through collaborative projects, group critiques and gallery exhibitions, they learn not only from their professors but also from each other, fostering a spirit of camaraderie that fuels their artistic growth.

Cameron University senior art student Betty Jo Patris, expressed her love for the art department.

“I love the communication between everyone,” Patris said. “I love the feedback that I get. I love the interactions I receive from people that are just as like-minded as I am — albeit so different at the same time.”

The department’s impact extends far beyond the college campus, with students regularly showcasing their work in local galleries, participating in community art events, and even earning recognition in national galleries.

Alumni of the program have gone on to pursue successful careers in various artistic fields, serving as a testament to the department’s legacy.

As Cameron’s Art Department continues to evolve and expand, one thing remains constant-

unwavering commitment to fostering creativity, nurturing talent, and empowering the next generation of artists to make their mark on the world.

The Art Department is hosting visiting artist Hattie Lee’s art exhibition Feb. 29 - March 28 in the Cameron University Art Teaching Gallery Art 125. At 6 p.m., March 28 in McCutcheon Recital Hall Lee will present a visual lecture open to the public.

On April 6 at the Leslie Powell Gallery the Senior Art Exhibit will open. Reach out to Jack Crouch at jcrouch@cameron.edu or Edna McMillan at ednam@cameron.edu for more information.

JADEN

PEBEAHSY

Hannah Owens News Editor

In the bustling halls of Cameron University’s art department, Jaden Pebeahsy stands out as a beacon of creativity and talent. A dedicated advanced art student with a concentration in painting, Pebeahsy’s journey into the world of art is as colorful and dynamic as her canvases.

Initially guided by the recommendations of her

ACT exam results toward a career in radiologic technology, Pebeahsy found herself at a crossroads after a biology class. Realizing that her passion lay elsewhere, she made the bold decision to follow her heart into the realm of art.

Pebeahsy’s affinity for art had always been evident.

“My whole life I’ve been drawing,” Pebeahsy said. “I’ve always been like the family member that gets tasked with the more artistic things.”

She said she spent her entire life drawing from a young age and always held an interest in it. Embracing this calling, she dove headfirst into her studies, eventually realizing her love for painting over drawing. She further honed her preference towards the medium of oil paint.

Recently, Jaden’s dedication and talent shone through as she secured first place in the Cameron University Fifth Annual Student Art Competition and Exhibition.

Art professor and mentor Jack Crouch spoke highly of Pebeahsy and her dedication.

“She’s been doing really strong work lately and working very hard,” Crouch said.

Born the oldest sibling, Pebeahsy draws much of her

artistic inspiration from the tapestry of her own family experiences and relationships.

Whether it’s the deeper emotions of familial bonds or the beauty of everyday moments, her paintings reflect a personal connection to her subject matter.

Pebeahsy said finding her focus has helped strengthen her skills as an artist.

“I feel like I have more passion in it with my family being involved and I feel like my work’s been stronger because of that,” Pebeahsy said.

Crouch played a large role in helping Pebeahsy sort out her style and continues to play a large role in her improvement.

She mentioned multiple different pieces of advice from Crouch that stuck with her like how to keep a painting planner, ways to best prepare for work after graduation and “nothing is as good as time at the easel.”

Pebeahsy also offered her own advice for aspiring artists.

“Definitely sketch every day,” Pebeahsy said. “Draw every day. Observe everything.”

With graduation on the horizon, she sets her sights on the next chapter of her artistic journey: pursuing a graduate program. She said it is difficult to find a master’s program with a focus in painting, but is excited to further her education nonetheless.

Pebeahsy’s story is far from over, and she is thankful to Cameron’s art department for their continued and endless support.

Photos by Hannah Owens

February 26, 2024

www.aggiecentral.com

By Amelia Lozano Voices Editor

I confess: I messed up.

It’s a story I only ever had the stomach to tell a few because, well, I was embarrassed. But I’ve spent long enough holding it in.

I was in the sixth grade. My favorite class was art and my favorite teacher was Mrs. Pelley. Every week, I would linger in her classroom for my favorite extracurricular activity: the Art Club. I would talk and laugh with my best friends and we would continue our artistic pursuits in perfect bliss.

Until one day, everything changed.

I was shuffling out of the classroom, single file like everybody else. There was this awkward spot right by the wall of the classroom where the nearest long table and a short cabinet left only a child-sized wedge to squeeze through.

I was there, stuck in the line of fellow students while Mrs. Pelley checked bus passes for the students.

I was getting bored so I leaned against the cabinet. I placed my hand flat on the top only to feel something… strangely wet. And cold.

I slowly turned my head and there, right beneath my hand: a perfectly white canvas, freshly painted over.

Mistake number one.

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Voices

I flinched and – after a moment of confusion that delayed my reaction – I tugged my hand away as though I’d been burned.

With a quick glance, I realized that no one had seen my mistake. When I saw the paint coating my hand, I knew I had to wipe it off before someone saw it, and quickly. In a state of panic, I slapped my white-painted palm against the side of Mrs. Pelley’s cabinet.

Mistake number two.

With mounting horror I realized that no, actually, wiping my hand on the side of a cabinet is not the way to move. A pristine white handprint is left against honey-brown wood like the scene of a crime.

Before I could even begin to make the situation worse, the student in front of me left the room.

The line moved forward with me and I practically sprinted out of Mrs. Pelley’s classroom, flexing my hand like Mr. Darcy (but without the romance and all the horror).

I washed off the paint in the restroom and walked outside to find my mother waiting for me. I hoped that would be the end of it.

Oh, was I wrong…

Mrs. Pelley greeted her class the next day as usual.

I intentionally averted my eyes from the handprint on her cabinet. It was below eye level anyway, and none of the other students mentioned it, so I figured I was safe.

I took my seat and, once the class was full, Mrs.

Pelley stood to address us all.

“I want everyone to look around and tell me what’s missing in the room,” she said.

We looked. Nothing out of the ordinary.

Mrs. Pelley paused for dramatic effect.

I started to feel anxious. Was this the end of my time at this school? Were the cops going to bust in at any minute?

The silence was broken: “My painting was stolen!” she cried, pointing to the back wall where one of her paintings was once displayed.

I breathed a sigh of relief.

It wasn’t me. I was safe.

The relief was short-lived. Mrs. Pelley spoke again: “...And there’s a handprint right there!”

All eyes turned to follow Mrs. Pelley’s finger, which pointed at the handprint – MY handprint – on the side of her cabinet. I gasped like I had never seen it before, sweating in my seat.

What followed was a dramatic account of events that are as follows: the night before, Mrs. Pelley locked the door behind her. When she arrived at school the following morning, her painting was suddenly missing and a handprint was there, apparently a mark of the thief.

I, like any sensible sixth grader who knew they were in trouble, pretended that I knew nothing. Surely it would blow over in a day.

I was wrong again.

Mrs. Pelley was well-loved, you see, and word spread fast. People were making theories about who or what could have done it.

There was a forensics class that seemed more than eager to investigate the handprint, a fact that had me hiding my hands when I walked past that teacher in the hallway. Everybody in the school, teachers included, were speculating.

For nearly a month straight, I could not enter that classroom without feeling anxious that I would finally be caught. I didn’t want to confess, though, as inconsequential as it would have been by that point.

The bit had gone on too long.

I finally understood why the madman went crazy in “The Tell-Tale Heart.” I barely withstood the stress of the whole ordeal.

Then, as if the heavens had opened before me, the mystery (or at least part of it) was solved.

Mrs. Pelley beamed at us one morning, pointing to the back wall where her painting was restored.

Apparently she had been rearranging some things and found that the painting had simply toppled off of its wall mount and fallen behind her storage containers.

Although the handprint was left unanswered, Mrs. Pelley was at least glad to have her painting back in place.

So here I am, my biggest secret revealed. It’s been a long time coming.

If I had a word of advice, I would say this: don’t lie if it won’t be funny a few years down the road. And never, EVER wipe paint off on someone’s cabinet.

Crossword created by Amelia Lozano

About Us

The official student newspaper of Cameron University, The Cameron Collegian is available twenty Mondays during the year. It is printed by the Lawton Constitution. The first issue is provided for free. Each subsequent issue is $1.50.

Our Views

The opinions expressed in The Collegian pages or personal columns are those of the signed author.

The unsigned editorial under the heading “Voices” represents the opinion of the majority of the editorial board.

The opinions expressed in The Collegian do not necessarily represent those of Cameron University or the state of Oklahoma.

Our student media are designated public forums, and free from censorship and advance approval of content. Because content and funding are unrelated, and because the role of adviser does not include advance review of content, student media are free to develop editorial policies and news coverage with the understanding that students and student organizations speak only for themselves. Administrators, faculty, staff or other agents shall not consider the student media’s content when making decisions regarding the media’s funding or faculty adviser.

Letters Policy

THE CAMERON UNIVERSITY

COLLEGIAN Founded in 1926 veritas sempiterna

Editorial Staff

Managing Editor - Brittney Payette News Editor - Hannah Owens Voices Editor - Amelia Lozano A&E Editor - Kemar Noel Student Life Editor - Ciera Terry Sports Editor - Ramona Villegas Page Editor - Kaley Muse Copy Editor - Kaley Muse

Newsroom Staff

Staff Writers - Justin Liszeski Faculty Adviser - Prof. David Bublitz

Letters to the editor will be printed in the order in which they are received and on a space available basis.

The Collegian reserves the right to edit all letters for content and length. Letters should be no more than 250 words. Letters from individual authors will be published only once every four weeks.

All letters from students should include first and last names, classification and major. Letters from people outside the Cameron community should include name, address and phone number for verification.

Letters can be sent by mail, by e-mail to aggiecentral@ cameron.edu or they may be dropped off to the Academic Commons 101.

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A&E

February 26, 2024

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THE MOST INFLUENTIAL SHOOTER OF THE 21ST CENTURY Austin Childers Staff Writer

Valve as a company is one of the most powerful and influential game companies in the world, having released dozens of the highest rated games of all time as well as having a borderline monopoly on PC gaming.

One of the company’s first major steps into becoming what they are today started with a very unique Frame per second (FPS) in 2007.

Team Fortress 2 released on Oct. 10, 2007 as part of Valve’s orange box, a multi game collection including Portal, Half-life and Team Fortress 2. The art style and unique gameplay gave the game critical acclaim upon its release.

The game’s art style was something that had not really been seen in an adult-oriented game.

The game uses a style of 3-D rendering called cell shading.

This technique uses heavy shadows separate from the game’s environment to make the characters look flat and more cartoon-like.

During a time period where almost, every firstperson shooter looked the same with heavy use of grays and browns, Team Fortress 2 set in stark contrast with its 1950’s inspired spy thriller look using washed out pastel colors.

The game is a sequel to the original game

which wasn’t actually a standalone game, but a mod released in 1996 for the original release of Quake, another very influential game. The mod eventually got a standalone release but didn’t see much of a player base or critical acclaim.

Team Fortress 2 was one of, if not the most, influential firstperson shooter of the 21st century. The game pioneered many common game modes as well as an entire genre itself.

Payload, a game mode seen in many current generation games like Overwatch or Paladins, saw its premiere in Team Fortress.

Both Overwatch and Paladins owe most of their DNA to Team Fortress 2, Paladins even has a skin dedicated to the engineer from Team Fortress 2 as an unlockable cosmetic. For better or worse Team Fortress was also the

game that popularized the loot crate system and in game economy shortly after the game went free to play.

While the game commonly stays in the top 20 of play count on steam and by all accounts still makes Valve a ton of money, the game has been neglected by Valve for a good 5 years now.

The game hasn’t had a major content update since its Jungle Inferno update in 2017. More concerning is that the game has been infested with cheating bots who will join servers and cheat in an attempt to ruin other players time with the game.

After the bot crisis started in 2020 the community finally was fed up with the state of the game and rallied together to start the #SaveTF2 movement in 2022.

During this period of time dozens of content creators and thousands

of players spammed virtually every social media account Valve owned in an attempt to bring attention to the issues the community were facing. Eventually, the voice actor who played the medic joined the effort and started contacting people who worked at Valve.

Following the events of the #SaveTF2 campaign, the developers returned to the game for a short period of time and implemented

multiple fixes that the bots were exploiting as well as making it easier for the community to kick the bots from their lobbies.

While these steps have made it easier to still enjoy public lobbies, the bot crisis continues as of the writing of this story. I tested 40 separate lobbies and found that 10 of those had at least one hacking bot in it.

Usually, the bots were kicked immediately; however, in two of those

lobbies, more than six bots joined at the same time spamming links to a fishy website charging 10 dollars for bot immunity.

While the game has gained quite a large flaw in its later years, the game is still one of the greatest of all time. It commonly cracks the top 10 of various “greatest of all time” lists and almost never drops out of the top 20 highest players count list on steam. Team Fortress 2 is free to play and available on steam.

Photos Courtesy of Steam

REVIEW: MEET THE PARKERS Photo Courtesy of Marvel Comics

James Jones Staff Writer

As of last month, something came swinging through in the first issue of a spectacular new comic series released by Marvel at the hands of comic writer Jonathan Hickman and illustrator Marco Checchetto, both prominent figures in the

comic industry in the past decade.

The comic in question is “Ultimate Spider-Man” to start off the newly established universe that has been created within Marvel Comics.

The ultimate universe has existed before as a way for incoming and dedicated readers at the time to enjoy already established characters in a

whole new light.

It seems that Marvel is sticking with that similar concept as there are many, and I mean many, changes to our friendly neighborhood wallcrawler in this first issue alone.

For starters, the issue itself is an incredible read perfect for both veteran and novice comic readers.

For even hardcore Spider-Man fans, like

myself, this issue is a treat.

The reason I say this is because Hickman’s writing establishes this new status quo for Peter Parker and the supporting cast of characters.

From page to page, Hickman sets up each of the characters expertly with new and refreshing changes to their backstories and personalities, immersing the reader in this new fantastical setting.

Alongside the writing, Checchetto’s art style gives off this dynamic and cinematic feel reminiscent of the Raimi movies.

His art is definitely an eye catcher with, to me, very little flaws providing a comfortable reading experience.

Now into the nitty gritty of the overall plot, which means spoilers will be present.

First off, as stated before, the relationship between Peter and Mary Jane is rekindled in this new universe compared to the main universe.

616 Peter is currently broken up with Mary Jane, who found a new lover by the name of Paul, which brought uproar among many fans.

It’s quite a shocking yet welcoming surprise to finally see our friendly

neighborhood wallcrawler happily married with two children named May and Richard Parker.

May Parker has existed before, mainly through alternative realities or what-if scenarios, and Richard Parker being a completely brand-new character.

The introduction of these two characters fills another hole in many fans’ hearts as a specific comic series, a name I shall not speak of, has left a significant stain on the Spider-Man mythos preventing Peter from escaping the status quo of being stuck in a neverending loop of tragedy.

Peter is also powerless as this universe contains no super powered beings.

Another great surprise presented in this issue was the existence of Uncle Ben, who is the managing editor at the Daily Bugle.

May Parker sadly takes the position of Ben Parker as she was killed, probably to coincide with the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).

Not only that, J. Jonah Jameson is close friends with Ben and very kindhearted to Peter.

Even more, Wilson Fisk a.k.a. Kingpin is the supposed head of the Daily Bugle that causes conflict with both Ben and

Jameson.

A new green goblin is also present with a more high-tech appearance compared to the classic purple and green suit.

I feel this chosen design was a direct inspiration of the Raimi green goblin suit as that was mainly tech based, but I wonder if the goblin serum also is being used for this new goblin.

Other guest characters showed up including Robbie Brown and Matt Murdock as a pastor rather than donned in his Daredevil alter ego.

Finally, the comic ends with Peter receiving the spider that gives him his power and finally dons the spandex becoming the amazing Spider-Man. In conclusion, this first issue is a solid start for the eventual expansion of the new Ultimate universe within the MCU. It not only established the necessary tone of the story, but it has also introduced a solid cast of characters that definitely can be expanded upon in this comic series or other coinciding series.

I’m definitely excited for what’s to come and will for sure check out the next issue, as well as the upcoming “Ultimate Black Panther” and “Ultimate X-Men” series.

February 26, 2024

www.aggiecentral.com

Student Life

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PAC’s Annual Homecoming Dance

Ciera Terry Student Life

From 9 p.m. to 12 a.m., in the McMahon Centennial Complex McCasland Ballroom, the Programming Activities Council (PAC) hosted Cameron’s annual Homecoming dance. This event provided snacks, a punch stand for the attendees of the dance and a DJ. PAC’s annual Homecoming events are known for having a theme each year. This year’s theme is “Golden years,” and PAC Co-President Alexandra Moya was a part of choosing it.

“We like to theme it around Cameron colors, and gold just kind of goes with everything in my opinion,” she said.

However, this year’s theme held a special meaning.

“It’s been 50 years since Cameron has been

a university, so we wanted to have ‘a night to remember’ type of theme,” she said.

Gold decorations filled the ballroom, and as students entered, balloons with the number 50 hung on the doors.

PAC also provided a photo-taking station just outside the dance.

Homecoming turned out to be an enjoyable experience for many students.

CU sophomore Gabby Lewis was excited to attend the event.

“I got to dance with my friends and overall just enjoy the vibe and have fun,” she said.

Student Angelica Martinez also had a great time at Homecoming.

“I was a little nervous that it wasn’t going to be enjoyable because not a whole ton of people showed up, but being able to connect with people while dancing in a tight circle added to the experience,”

she said.

Homecoming gave her the chance to dress up with her friends. “...which i always love, and I was a huge fan of the bubbles too,” she said.

PAC’s annual Homecoming event gives students the chance to relax and have fun.

“I really appreciate PAC Hosting these events.

It’s nice to blow off some steam with friends for a college event and to look cute while doing it,’ Martinez said.

Students dressed in a range of attire, from prom formal to more casual outfits; regardless, all students joined each other to dance together in commonly known songs like the “Cupid Shuffle” throughout the night.

For more information about Homecoming or other PAC activities and events, email PAC at pac@ cameron.edu.

Photos by Ciera Terry

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Sports

February 26, 2024

www.aggiecentral.com

AGGIE SOFTBALL

FALLS TO PATRIOTS CAMERON WORKS TO STRENGTHEN DEFENSE AFTER DISAPPOINTING LOSS IN FINAL GAME OF SERIES

By Ramona Villegas Sports Editor

At 1 p.m., Feb. 22, at the McMahon Field and Athletics Center, the Cameron University Aggie softball team lost the last game in their three-game series against the University of Texas at Tyler the Patriots.

The first game in the series was also a tough loss for the Aggies, with the final score going 7-10 in favor of the Patriots. However, the Aggies battled back in the second game, securing a narrow 4-2 victory over their opponents.

Unfortunately, the Aggies’ latest series game against the formidable Patriots left them with an unvictorious finish, suffering a disappointing 0-9 loss Feb. 22. Despite their efforts, the Aggies could not overcome the strong performance of the University of Texas at Tyler softball squad in this matchup.

Number Stormee Reed started out on the mound for the Aggie women, and Kaylee David for the Patriots. The Patriots started strong, getting a home run in the first inning with no errors.

When it was the Aggies’ turn at bat, they came up empty.

Here’s where things got better for the Patriots and worse for the Aggies: the Patriots got to the home base four times at the top of the second inning.

When the Aggies came up to bat, it was a quick inning, with all three of their batters getting no bait that came their way.

Going into their third inning with no errors on both sides was the most uneventful inning of the day, with one hit from Makayla Garcia of the Patriots’ team getting to first and then stealing second. Two of her teammates followed, but not in her lead both hit to the infield, and they got forced out. The Aggies went down in order of their next at-bat.

The fourth featured plenty of bunting action, with Courtney Plocheck leading off with a bunt single for the Patriots. Cassidi Mullen followed with a bunt that resulted in a double play.

The Aggies forced out the next batter at first. Meanwhile, the Aggies’ Kaiden Boren, Kyndel McDaniel and Kelsey Creech never reached first base.

After four innings, the Patriots led 5-0.

Going straight into the fifth inning, the Patriots got their chance to dominate. The Patriots’ first

batter, Audrey Escamilla, struck out swinging. The strand of luck started when Michelle Arias was batting and hit the ball to third baseman Madysen Boutwell. It slipped out of Boutwell’s glove, and that’s how Escamilla got to first base. JT Smith, one of the powerhouses of the evening, shot a hit clear over the fence and went around the diamond then scored a homerun.

The last and final inning started with Patriot Plocheck getting to first base with a hit to third base. Next, Mullen didn’t follow the tread of getting on base. Sam Schott hit a homer, ensuring that Plocheck and Schott got a chance to go out with a big bang.

Right after Schotts’ feet got to home base, there was a pitching change in the middle of the inning. Jocelyn Bright passed the pitching baton to Presleigh Payne. Audrey Escamilla was the next woman to step up to the box, with Payne having her first official pitch of the game. Escamilla got to walk to base one because she received four balls from Payne. Patriot Arias was up next at-bat, and there was a double play where Arias and Escamilla got a force out, making it a double play ending the final inning for the Patriots.

The Aggies started their final inning batting strong, with Taylor Rowley getting a hit to third and onto first base. Next, Rylee Ross got to first. While Rowley was forced out at second. Boren got to first with a hit to left field. Kyndel McDaniel forced out at one. Boren and Ross then advanced to first and second. Lastly, Kelsey Creech took on the box and hit a ball to the center field, where the Patriots’ center caught the ball, ending the game 0-9 in favor of the Patriots.

Coach Emma Johansen added that the team would return to the drawing board in upcoming practices to shore up their defense and make some adjustments at the plate. “We just didn’t have the energy or the execution,” Johansen said.

For more information on the rest of the season, go to https://cameronaggies. com/sports/softball/schedule.

Photos and Graphics

by Ramona Villegas