Hankinson softball contributed to this report.

The Pirates softball co-op, consisting of Hankinson, Fairmount, Rosholt, Campbell-Tintah and Lidgerwood, lost to West Fargo Horace by a score of 8-3 on Tuesday in Horace. 

It was the season opener for both programs.

Other than some first game jitters and miscues, the Pirates braved the cold well. Kirstan Loewen led the Pirates at the plate, going 1-for-2, including a double on the first pitch of the game. Kylee Falk also batted 1-for-2 in the loss.

Loewen had a super start on the mound with 14 strikeouts while surrendering only five hits in seven innings of work. The Pirates are back in action tonight at 5 p.m. in Wheaton, Minnesota.