Postseason success requires big-game players. Check that off Hastings softball’s list.

A Monday loss to Stillwater would have split the Suburban East Conference title; a victory would have secured it all for the Raiders. Both teams were ranked in the state’s top 10, and senior pitcher Treya Connell knew she had to show up.

“With a good team, it’s anybody’s ballgame,” Connell said. “So that’s when you have to bring it.”

Connell brought it, all right. The St. Thomas recruit threw a no-hitter while fanning 13 in a 2-0 shutout victory.

It was the Class 3A, No. 3 Raiders’ third consecutive conference title — their first three in the program’s 31-year history — under third-year coach Dean Robinson.

Robinson saw Connell take over the full-time pitching duties after sharing starts since ninth grade. She responded with a 15-1 record, 145 strikeouts, an 0.70 ERA and seven shutouts.

“She just loves that pressure situation — it’s when she gets faster, more accurate and throws it where she needs it,” Robinson said.

This year’s new pitching distance — pushed back from 40 feet to 43 feet — made life tougher for many pitchers.

For Connell, it has been easier. She has made the adjustment and her breaking balls have adapted with the extra 3 feet, providing sharper movement that has been stifling hitters.

Backing her up is senior shortstop Britt Robinson, who will play for Minnesota State Mankato next year. Robinson brings experience, a bat and air-tight defense behind Connell.

“It’s something irreplaceable to know you have solid D behind you,” Connell said. “It takes a lot of pressure off. You get runners on and you know your team can make plays.”

Connell and Robinson — both impact hitters as well — played together on Hastings’ first U10 team.

“We just clicked,” Connell said.

Both have been named captains for four consecutive seasons by their teammates for exhibiting leadership qualities.

The coach and players all attribute their success to team unity, largely due to the club’s veterans.

“We are a bunch of sisters, practically,” Britt Robinson said. “We have great relationships on and off the field and that makes our team play for each other and not themselves, which is the biggest thing you could ever have on a team.”

Expectations were high entering the season, even after losing 11 seniors to graduation. With five holes in the starting nine, youngsters stepped up right away.

Sophomore center fielder Hailey Lundquist is hitting more than .400. Junior Lori Bauer hit four home runs, including a grand slam, and has been solid in the field. Freshman Rachel Thomas took over behind the plate.

Fresh faces made the transition easily because all of Hastings’ summer coaches use the same systems as Robinson.

Instead of spending time on fundamentals, the Raiders get right to business — and business is booming.

Hastings softball has slowly built a dynasty with not only three conference titles, but three consecutive state tournament appearances as well, advancing to the Class 3A semifinals the past two years.

Leadership, experience and one talented arm could push them one step further. The girls say they don’t shy away from pressure situations.

“These are the games we look forward to all season,” Connell said.