PANAMA CITY, Fla. — Marietta College stumbled in their season opener, falling 8-5 to Valparaiso on Saturday, March 8. Despite the loss, the Pioneers showed flashes of promise in their first outing of the year.
 
Newcomer Sean Risley was the standout for Marietta (0-1), going 2-for-3 at the plate with an RBI and two runs scored. The speedy Pioneer also swiped two bases, showcasing his threat on the basepaths.
 
Bill Holmes made his presence felt with a double and two RBI, while John Sudges and Scott McVicar each contributed a double to the Pioneers' offensive effort.
 
Starting pitcher Jim Katschke had a rough outing, shouldering the loss after surrendering seven hits and eight runs in just two innings of work. However, only two of those runs were earned, as Marietta committed three errors.
 
For Valparaiso, Tim Holmes went the distance, allowing eight hits in a complete-game victory. The Crusaders' offense was led by Dale Polonus, who launched a home run, and Mike Healey, who had an impressive 3-for-4 day at the plate with two runs scored. Kurt Geese also contributed significantly, driving in two runs for Valpo.