BERRIEN SPRINGS — The Chieftains kicked off the 2018 season by dropping a pair of non-conference games to host Berrien Springs Tuesday.

The Shamrocks defeated the Chieftains 16-6 and 7-5.

In the first game, Taylore Froehlich, Jessie Hulett, Anna Dobberstein and Natalie Davis all doubled for the Chieftains, while Amiyah Smith homered.

Smith took the loss for Dowagiac.

In the nightcap, Smith doubled and hit another home run for the Chieftains, who also got a double from Froehlich.

Buchanan softball

COLOMA — Host Coloma spoiled the debut of Buchanan softball coach Rachel Carlson by sweeping the Bucks Tuesday.

The Comets won the first game 10-4 and then completed the sweep by rallying to win the nightcap 8-7.

The Bucks had seven hits in the opening game, led by Jayla Bibbs, who homered and drove in three runs.

Morgan Lenox added a double.

Ericka Donathen went the distance, allowing seven earned runs on 13 hits with eight strikeouts and five walks.

In the nightcap, Bibbs was 3-for-3 with another home run, a double and two RBIs.

Emily Riley was 2-for-3 with a double. The Bucks also got a double from Lenoxc and a triple from Abby Hickok.

Donathen worked the first inning, allowing one run on one hit. Chloe Spitz worked the final five innings and took the loss. She allowed seven runs on 12 hits.