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FORT MYERS, Fla. – A strong run through the Atlantic Sun Conference Tournament came to a disappointing end on Friday as Kennesaw State fell 4-1 to Florida Gulf Coast in a semifinal game in Fort Myers Fla.
 
Following a dramatic 5-2 come-from-behind win over Stetson earlier in the day, Kennesaw State (30-28) was unable to keep the magic going and fell one game short of reaching the championship game.
 
The Eagles (32-26) will advance to play USC Upstate for the conference championship and a berth in the NCAA Tournament on Saturday.
 
"I've never been prouder of a team than I am of this team. They fought to the finish," head coach Tory Acheson said. "When you look at where we were a month ago to where we are now, it is a testament to how amazing these kids are. I love these kids!"
 
Looking to carry the momentum from a late-inning comeback over Stetson into their game with the Eagles, the Owls fell behind 1-0 in the first inning but took advantage of an error to tie the score at 1-1 on a single by Taylor Denton in the third inning.
 
Kennesaw State looked as though it might take the lead in the fifth inning after loading the bases on back-to-back singles by Noelle Winkles and Kara Chambers, and an intentional walk to Courtney Sutter. However, Gabbee Draney was able to work out of trouble.
 
Florida Gulf Coast scored what proved to be the winning run in the bottom of the fifth, capitalizing on a two-out error, and added a pair of insurance runs in the sixth.
 
"Today we experienced the highs and lows of tournament play," Acheson said. "We rallied and played great against Stetson and then Gulf Coast rallied on us. You have to give FGCU credit. They made some great plays and got clutch hits."
 
The Florida Gulf Coast contest marked the final game for eight seniors who each made a significant impact on the Kennesaw State program during their careers.
 
Emily Bishop, Chambers, Rachel Dennis, Hillary Kartman, Melissa Perkowski, Morgan Sikes, Megan Veringa and Monica Vickery all wrapped up their collegiate careers on Friday.
 
"The senior class means the world to me. I feel lucky to have coached them," Acheson said. "I will always remember how they gave me their best, always! I love these kids. I am Owl Proud!"
 
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