Vikings Storm Back to Defeat Dutchess

CONTACT: Julia Quinlan, j.quinlan@hvcc.edu, (518) 629-7863 or (518) 530-7376
FOR RELEASE: Immediate, Tuesday, April 14, 2026

The Hudson Valley Community College softball team delivered a dramatic comeback victory on Tuesday afternoon, rallying from a six-run deficit to defeat Dutchess Community College, 9-8, at home. Game two of the doubleheader was canceled due to severe thunderstorms and will not be made up.

After falling behind early, the Vikings faced a 6-0 deficit before beginning their comeback effort. Dutchess got on the board in the second inning and added another in the third before extending their lead with a three-run home run in the fifth.

Hudson Valley answered in the bottom of the fifth inning, cutting the deficit to 6-3 behind a two-run home run from Danskin and a solo shot from Currao. The Vikings continued to battle back and eventually tied the game at 7-7 in the bottom of the seventh when Graham blasted a home run to center field.

Dutchess briefly regained the lead in the top of the eighth inning, going ahead 8-7, but Hudson Valley responded once again with a walk-off rally to complete the comeback and secure the 9-8 win.

Sawitzki earned the win in relief, tossing four innings while allowing seven hits and six runs (three earned), striking out four and walking four. Currao started in the circle, working one and two-thirds innings, and Kristel came on to earn the save.

At the plate, Graham led the Vikings with three RBIs, while Castiglione provided a spark from the bottom of the lineup with a perfect 3-for-3 performance. Kilburn also added two hits in four at-bats to support the offensive effort.

Hudson Valley returns to action on Tuesday, April 21, traveling to SUNY Adirondack for a doubleheader scheduled for 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM.