Sequim’s TNT select fastpitch squads are off to a quick start after both 12U and 16U teams posted top-three finishes at the NSA of Washington fastpitch opener in Tacoma, held March 19-20.

Buoyed by the slugging of Lea Hopson, Mariah Frazier and Hannah Grubb, defense by Hopson and Bailey Rhodefer and solid pitching from Makayla Bentz, Melissa Lewis, Columbia Haupt and Olivia Kirsch, Sequim’s older TNT team took first place in the 16U/18U age bracket.

The squad swept all three games on “championship” Sunday.

Hopson mashed seven home runs and hit .778 while Frazier hit two homers and garnered a .429 average. Grubb hit .471 with a home run.

Hopson, playing catcher, threw out several would-be base-stealers while Rhodefer started a couple of key double plays from third base.

On the mound, Bentz had two wins and struck out 15 batters, Haupt tallied a win and four strikeouts, and Lewis had a win and two strikeouts.

Tourney game balls went to Hopson and Bentz.

The team’s next tourney is April 9-10 at Celebration Park in Federal Way.

In their first-ever tourney — and playing with just 10 on their roster, Sequim’s 12U team took third place overall in their 14-team bracket behind the pitching of Ryley Eldridge and a strong offense from the whole team. Coaches praised the entire roster for contributing to the team’s strong finish.

TNT fundraiser a success

The TNT 16U squad hosted a flapjack fundraiser at the Sequim Applebee’s on April 2 and with the help of community support can enter two more tournaments this year, team supporter Karen Lewis said. “The girls also had fun doing it,” she said. “We really appreciate everyone that continues to support us. And, of course, a great big thank you to Applebee’s.”