These Class 3A, Section 8 foes meet Thursday in an early season matchup that could go a long way toward section seeding later this spring.
The game will also be the season opener for Detroit Lakes, which — like many of the state's teams — has struggled to get on the field due to the winter-like weather that has continued into April.
Once they are able to take the field, the Lakers will rely on their experience and depth in the circle this season. Junior pitcher Madi Kirchner returns and is joined by Mercedez Bellanger, a junior pitcher who transferred to Detroit Lakes after making the Mid-State All-Conference team in 2017 while playing for Park Rapids.
Thief River Falls is led by Alexa Rogalla, whose father is team coach Carter Rogalla. The junior pitcher helped power the Prowlers to a 21-7 record and the Class 3A state tournament a year ago.