Game 1

After build-up of much anticipation due to multiple snow or rained-out games, the Lady Crusaders softball team took the field for their first game this past Wednesday. Under new Coach Bob McClary, the team began this season well, with a 14-11 run victory against Notre Dame of Maryland. The girls played a clean first game, making only 2 errors. Among the highlights were a diving catch behind 2^nd base made by senior shortstop Bridget Handy to end the top of the second inning, as well as clutch hits by sophomores Nicole Feldman and Maggie Adams and consistent pitching by Senior Mary Solitario. Both Adams and Senior catcher Elizabeth Rensch led the team in hits, getting on base each time they went up to the plate.

Game 2

With colder weather setting in, the Crusaders had more difficulty in the 2^nd game of their double-header against Notre Dame MD. They started off well, staying neck-in-neck with ND for runs throughout most of the game. In the 5^th inning freshman Sofia Skuba crushed a triple out to right field to clear the bases, delivering one of the best hits of both games. However, in the 7^th inning, ND pulled away from the Crusaders and scored 8 runs due to a mixture of well-placed hits and fielding errors, for a final score of 16-8. Sophomore Anna Cook, usually a 2^nd baseman, showcased her quickness playing 3^rd base for the first time in her career. She made two of the three outs and helped the Crusaders end the difficult 7^th inning.

Overall the double-header was a successful first expedition for the 2017 Lady Crusaders softball team. They look forward to the rest of their games, and thank their fans for all the support they have shown thus far.