The Sacred Heart Club Softball Red Team began their spring season with a double-header against Providence College, winning both games on March 26. The team followed up this victory with a triple-header win against Hofstra University on April 2.
“Our team was definitely prepared for the start of our spring season and it showed in our hitting, pitching and defense,” said head coach Ray Mencio. “It was a great way to get some momentum going.”
The Red Team was scheduled for another triple-header against Northeastern University, but due to poor weather conditions the games were canceled.
“The toughest challenge is always being prepared for anything that may be unexpected, such as weather,” said Mencio.
Despite the disappointment of the Northeastern cancellation, the team was able to have a successful triple-header against Hofstra the following Saturday.
“Hofstra went very well,” said senior Hailey King. “Everyone on the team had at least one hit, and our pitchers really stepped up and had probably their best combined efforts of the fall and spring season.”
Senior captains for the Pioneers include King and Carlie Corrigan. They have been members of the team since freshman year and acknowledge the tremendous efforts of the entire team.
“The team performed great over the weekend,” said King. “We hit, fielded and pitched very well including a perfect game from our freshman pitcher to finish off the three-game series.”
The freshman who threw the perfect game was Kylie McNamara. McNamara focuses her pitching on one game at a time.
“What stood out to me was that all my pitches were working and I was able to hit all of my spots during the game against Providence College,” said McNamara. “It’s always nice to contribute offensively, as it allows me to help my cause as a pitcher.”
The Red team is hoping to make it to the National Club Softball Association (NCSA) World Series for a fourth time in program history, as they clinched a spot in the regional tournament for the eighth time in nine years.
“We have a team that is very dedicated and everyone plays a key role in our success. It’s truly a team effort every time we win,” said Mencio.
The Pioneers will compete at the Regional Tournament beginning on April 23 in Danville, Pa.
