IRVINE, CA – Menlo College Softball wrapped up the CUI Kickoff Classic on Sunday morning against Colorado Christian at Great Park of Irvine, closing out a competitive three-day stretch as the Oaks continued to establish their identity during the opening weekend of the 2026 season.   

Oak Statistical Leaders

Ava Messina: 7.0 IP, 1 K, 6 H, 2 ER

Alina Perez: 1-for-3, 2B

Lucy Brooks: 1-for-2, sac bunt

Makayla Mentzer: 0-for-1, sac bunt

Menlo 0 - 5 Colorado Christian

Menlo set the tone early with disciplined defense, keeping Colorado Christian off the scoreboard through the first three innings. The Oaks cut down a runner at second in the opening frame and limited early traffic on the bases. The Cougars struck first in the fourth inning, but Menlo continued to compete through every inning behind a complete-game effort from Ava Messina. Messina navigated constant pressure and limited Colorado Christian to six hits, with only two runs allowed being earned across seven innings, keeping the game within reach throughout.

Menlo manufactured opportunities offensively, highlighted by a leadoff double from Alina Perez in the fourth and timely execution of the short game to move runners into scoring position. The Oaks also put runners aboard in the late innings and stayed aggressive until the final out, closing the weekend with clear takeaways and a defensive foundation to build upon as they head into the next phase of the season.

Up Next….

The Oaks are back on the road next weekend at the Stan State Invitational in Turlock, CA. Another five games are coming up starting on Friday, February 13th going through Sunday, February 15th.