Hermantown at Cloquet
4:30 p.m., Friday, April 29

Led by juniors Breanna Thomas and Jordyn Thomas, whose mothers played softball together at Minnesota-Duluth, No. 10-3A Hermantown appears as strong as ever coming off a third consecutive trip to the state tournament.

Last year marked a state-record 21st appearance for the Hawks, who have failed to reach the state tournament only three times since 2000.

Jordyn Thomas, a Class 2A all-state second team selection, and Kailey Mihalik, an all-tournament selection, helped Hermantown claim third place at state a year ago.

Cloquet was the last team to eliminate the Hawks from the Class 2A, Section 7 playoffs, which occurred in 2012.

The Lumberjacks (5-0) defeated Duluth East 11-4 in their last game. Lindsey Lamirande had three RBI, and Josie Steen struck out 10 in the win.