Nashville – National Pro Fastpitch announced today that all tickets for the NPF Championship Series are now available to purchase.  The Series will be played at The Ballpark at Rosemont, in Rosemont, IL  August 23-26. The event will be hosted by the Village of Rosemont in cooperation with National Pro Fastpitch.

The NPF Championship Series is the League’s hallmark event and is designed to feature the League’s outstanding talent in a playoff/tournament format. All four NPF teams qualify for the Championship Series and seedings are based on regular season standings.  The format is a best of 3 series between the #1 and #4 seed, along with a best of 3 series between the #2 and #3 seeds, with the winners of those two series’ facing off in a best of 3 Final Series to crown the champion.

For ticket purchases, the NPF Championship Series will be broken into individual games. Although a six game package is available for purchase, the games are still ticketed individually. Games #5, #6, and #9 are “if games” in the Series format and those games will not be available for purchase until it is evident through the competition, that they will actually take place.

Thursday August 23

Game 1: #2 vs. #3 @ 6:00 p.m. Game 2: #1 vs. #4 @ 8:30 p.m.

Friday August 24

Game 3: #1 vs. #4 @ 6:00 p.m. Game 4: #2 vs. #3 @ 8:30 p.m.

Saturday August 25

Game 5: “If Necessary” #1 vs. #4 @ 11:00 a.m.

Game 6: “If Necessary”  #2 vs. #3 @ 1:30 p.m.

(If there is only one “If Necessary” game, it will be played at 11:00 a.m.)

Game 7: Championship Final TBD (approximately 7:00 pm)

Sunday August 26

Game 8: Championship Final @ 1:00 p.m.

Game 9: “If Necessary” Final @ 4:00 p.m

The Championship Series will have five different categories to choose from for seating. These categories include Lower Club, Upper Club, Lower Box, Upper Box, and General Admission.

Fans can call the National Pro Fastpitch Office at 615-232-2900 or purchase tickets online by visiting The Championship Series Website

** Individual game tickets will be priced as follows:

Lower Club – $15.00

Lower Box – $13.00

Upper Club – $12.00

Upper Box – $10.00

General Admission – $5.00

Group sales are available for groups of 15 or more.

About National Pro Fastpitch:

National Pro Fastpitch is headquartered in Nashville, TN. The league, created to give elite female fastpitch players the opportunity to pursue a professional career in their chosen sport, has operated since 1997 under the names of Women’s Pro Fastpitch (WPF) and Women’s Pro Softball League (WPSL). NPF is the Official Development Partner of Major League Baseball in the category of women’s fastpitch softball since 2002.

Via georgiadogs.com:

Four Bulldogs Named NFCA All-Region Selections (5/17)

“Senior Kristyn Sandberg and junior Tess Sito were selected to the Southeast Region First Team at catcher and first base, respectively, while senior pitcher Erin Arevalo and freshman shortstop Paige Wilson were chosen to the Southeast Region Second Team.”

Read more here.

Regionals, vs. North Carolina, Georgia Southern, and Coastal Carolina, May 18-20

Game 1 (5/18): Georgia 13, Coastal Carolina 3 (W)

Game 2 (5/19): Georgia 3, North Carolina 2 (W)

Game 3 (5/20): Georgia 2, North Carolina 1 (W)

Sandberg, 5/18-20: AB-3;R-2;H-2;RBI-3;BB-7;SO-0;PO-9;A-4;LOB-0

Game 1:

“As the base runners advanced to third and second, respectively, off of a wild pitch, senior Kristyn Sandberg’s two-RBI single tied the game.”

“Sophomore Macie Couey would pinch run for Sandberg and steal third and score on a CCU error.”

Game 2:

“Freshman Paige Wilson and senior Kristyn Sandberg collected the team’s two RBI.

“Wilson followed with a RBI-double off the center field wall before the second UNC error of the inning on Sandberg’s at-bat allowed Wilson to score.

“Sandberg extended Georgia’s lead to 3-0 in the third with her 19th home run of the season with a solo shot beyond the left center field wall.”

Game 3:

“Freshman Paige Wilson started the inning with a single to center before senior Kristyn Sandberg got to first on an intentional walk.”

Via ragincajuns.com:

Orgeron, Myers Tabbed All-Americans by College Sports Madness (5/16)

“LAFAYETTE, La. – Senior outfielder Christi Orgeron and junior shortstop Nerissa Myers were recognized as first and third team All-Americans, respectively, as announced by College Sports Madness on Wednesday.

“Orgeron leads the country with 91 RBI this season and was named the Sun Belt Conference Player of the Year after pacing the league in homeruns (21), slugging percentage (.848), total bases (140) and walks (41). The fifth-year senior has six grand slams this season and nine in her career, which are both tied for NCAA records. The New Orleans, La. native is a finalist for the Lowe’s Senior CLASS Award and USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year.”

Read more here.

USA National Team Invites Orgeron Back For Tryouts (5/17)

“LAFAYETTE, La. — Senior outfielder Christi Orgeron was invited to try out for the 2012 USA Softball Women’s National Team for the second consecutive year, as announced by the Amateur Softball Association (ASA) of America on Thursday.

“The New Orleans native was one of just 21 athletes in the nation to receive an invitation to try out for the team. Orgeron was a member of the USA National Team in 2011, where they won gold medals at the World Cup of Softball and the Pan American Games.”

Read more here.

Regionals, vs. Mississippi Valley State, Stanford, and Baylor, May 18-20

Game 1 (5/18): Louisiana 8, Mississippi Valley State 0 (W)

Game 2 (5/19): Louisiana 9, Stanford 3 (W)

Game 3 (5/20): Louisiana 6, Stanford 2 (W)

Orgeron, 5/18-20: AB-10;R-1;H-2;RBI-3;BB-1;SO-1;PO-0;A-0;LOB-3

Game 3:

“Christi Orgeron blasted her team-leading 22^nd homerun and drove in three runs, giving her a NCAA-leading 94 on the year. The New Orleans, La. native sits sixth all-time in NCAA history with 288 RBI, just five short of fifth on the list.

“… Christi Orgeron laced a RBI single down the left field line to plate Smith.

“Orgeron gave the Ragin’ Cajuns a lift in the bottom half by launching a solo shot to dead center for a 3-0 advantage.

“The Ragin’ Cajuns added another run in the bottom of the sixth on an Orgeron sacrifice fly for a 6-2 lead.”

Three Huskies Earn All-Region Honors (5/17)

“STARKVILLE, Miss. - After six huskies earned All-Pac 12 honors this week, the National Fastpitch Coaches Association announced their All-Region team as well and three of those Huskies were included in the Pacific Region selections.

“Senior Nikia Williams represents UW on the first-team, while senior Kimi Pohlman and sophomore Kaitlin Inglesby were awarded second-team honors.”

Read More Here.

Regionals, vs. Texas Tech, Harvard, and Maryland, May 18-20

Game 1 (5/18): Washington 2, Harvard 0 (W)

Game 2 (5/19): Washington 2, Texas Tech 0 (W)

Game 3 (5/20): Washington 4, Harvard 0 (W) 

Williams, 5/18-20: AB-7;R-1;H-3;RBI-3;BB-2;SO-1;PO-2;A-0;LOB-0

Game 2:

“Senior Kimi Pohlman walked (Sammamish, Wash.) and sophomore Victoria Hayward’s (Mountain View, Calif.) sac bunt advanced the runners with one out for senior Nikia Williams. Williams (Mission Viejo, Calif.) was hit with the second pitch of her at bat, loading the bases for Inglesby.”

Game 3:

“Senior Nikia Williams (Mission Viejo, Calif.) gave the UW some insurance runs in the fourth with a three-run home run to center.”

Via UCLABruins.com:

Six Bruins Named to NFCA All-West Region Teams (5/17):

“STARKVILLE, Miss. – Six Bruins were named to the All-West Region Team, as announced by the National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) on Thursday. Seniors Samantha Camuso, Andrea Harrison and Katie Schroeder, and freshman Stephany LaRosa were named to the First Team, while junior B.B. Bates and freshman Ally Carda were named to the Second Team.

“For Harrison, it is her third All-Region honor after being named in 2010 (no first- or second-team designations in `09 and `10) and First Team in 2011.”

Read more here.

Regionals, vs. Hofstra, Florida State, and San Diego State, May 18 and 19

Game 1 (5/18): UCLA 2, Hoftsra 7 (L)

Game 2 (5/19): UCLA 1, Florida State 2 (L)

Harrison, 5/18-19: AB-7;R-1;H-2;RBI-1;BB-0;SO-3;PO-0;A-0;LOB-0

Game 1:

 “Senior Andrea Harrison and freshman Stephany LaRosa each homered, while sophomore Jessica Hall struck out nine, but the 12th-seeded Bruins dropped a 7-2 decision to Hofstra on Friday in their first game of the NCAA Los Angeles Regional at Easton Stadium.”

Game 2:

“UCLA got a leadoff double by senior Andrea Harrison in the fourth, but could not score.”

Via Gatorzone.com:

Four Gator Softball Players Named to NFCA All-Southeast Region Teams (5/17):

“Four Florida softball student-athletes were named to the 2012 NFCA All-Southeast Region Teams, announced by the Starkville-based National Fastpitch Coaches Association Thursday. Three Gators were tabbed first-team selections in sophomore pitcher Hannah Rogers (Lake Wales, Fla.), senior outfielder Michelle Moultrie (Jacksonville, Fla.) and freshman Lauren Haeger (Peoria, Ariz.), while junior Kelsey Horton (Valrico, Fla.) was tabbed a NFCA All-Southeast Region second team pick.

“All four Gators are now eligible for selection to the NFCA All-America teams, which will be announced May 30. UF’s four overall selections contributed to the SEC’s 27 overall athletes named to NFCA All-Region teams.”

Read more here

Regionals, vs. University of Central Florida, Florida Gulf Coast University, and University of South Florida, May 18-20

Game 1 (5/18): Florida 1, FGCU 2 (L)

Game 2 (5/19): Florida 7, UCF 1 (W)

Game 3 (5/19): Florida 6, FGCU 2 (W)

Game 4 (5/20): Florida 0, USF 1 (L)

Moultrie, 5/18-20: AB-14;R-2;H-7;RBI-1;BB-2;SO-5;PO-1;A-1;LOB-1

Game 2:

“Junior Kelsey Horton (Valrico, Fla.), senior Michelle Moultrie (Jacksonville, Fla.) and freshman Lauren Haeger (Peoria, Ariz.) led UF at the plate Saturday, Horton with a perfect 4-for-4 performance, including two bombs against the Eagles in the nightcap. Moultrie, who was 4-for-4 versus FGCU, finished the day 5-for-7 (.714) with five-consecutive hits carried over from game one to her perfect performance in game two.”

Game 4:

“Gator senior All-American and 2012 SEC Player of the Year Michelle Moultrie (Jacksonville, Fla.) concluded her tenure donning the Orange and Blue as Florida’s career leader in batting average (.385) and stolen bases/attempts (83-99). Moultrie, a top-10 finalist for the 2012 Lowe’s Senior CLASS Award and USA Softball’s Player of the Year, dropped a staggering 73 bunt singles in her four-year career as a Gator, highlighted by 27 her senior season in 2012. Moultrie will continue her career internationally as a member of USA Softball’s 2012 Women’s National Team, with the option to play professionally after being drafted by the USSSA Florida Pride of the National Pro Fastpitch league.”

Via calbears.com:

Pac-12 Honors Arioto as Pitcher of the Week (5/14):

“BERKELEY – Senior Valerie Arioto pitched the Bears to a 5-0 win over No. 2 Arizona State for the top-ranked California softball team to win its Pac-12 Championship, making her this week’s Pac-12 Pitcher of the Week.

‘”It is an awesome accomplishment to be the Pac-12 Pitcher of the Week,” Arioto said. “My team’s defense was behind me the whole time. It’s hard to get past them! My teammates provided me with the run support we needed to win the game and the conference.”’

Read more here

USA Softball Names Arioto Player of the Week (5/15):

“BERKELEY - Hitting a walk-off homer in one game and then throwing a shutout in the next to power California softball to the inaugural Pac-12 Championship certainly earned Valerie Arioto some just desserts as she was named the USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Week for May 7-13.

‘”I’m incredibly honored to have been chosen out of all the great players across the country for this very prestigious award!” Arioto said. “This is so much more a team award than it is an individual award for me. We couldn’t have won on Friday without the five runs the team scored and the incredible defense that my teammates played behind me.”’

Read more here

Regionals, vs. Iona, Arkansas, and Boston University, May 18-20

Game 1 (5/18): California 8, Iona 0 (W)

Game 2 (5/19): California 2, Arkansas 3 (L)

Game 3 (5/19): California 8, Boston University 0 (W)

Game 4 (5/20): California 10, Arkansas 2 (W)

Game 5 (5/20): California 7, Arkansas 0 (W)

Arioto, 5/18-20:

Batting: AB-6;R-5;H-2;RBI-1;BB-13;SO-0;PO-35;A-0;LOB-0

Pitching: IP-0.1;H-3;R-2;ER-2;BB-0;SO-0;WP-0;BK-0;HBP-0;IBB-0;AB-3;BF-3;FO-0;GO-0;NP-16

Game 2:

“Valerie Arioto (20-3) started, allowing the two earned runs on three hits.”

Game 3:

“After four intentional walks on the day – three of which came against Arkansas – BU threw to senior first baseman Valerie Arioto, who went two-for-two with two walks and an RBI.”

Via Matt Dunaway, Associate SID, lsusports.net:

Fico, Mack Named to NFCA All-Region Teams (5/17)

“STARKVILLE, Miss. – Rachele Fico and Brittany Mack picked up NFCA All-South Region accolades Thursday as announced by the National Fastpich Coaches Association.

“Fico collected a first team selection, while Mack came away with second team honors. It marked the fourth consecutive season that the Tigers have had a pitcher selected to the first team. LSU was one of seven programs to have two pitchers garner NFCA All-Region status.”

Read more here.

Regionals, vs. Texas State, Texas A&M, and Bethune Cookman, May 18-20:

Game 1 (5/18): LSU 1, Texas State 0 (W)

Game 2 (5/19): LSU 2, Texas A&M 0 (W)

Game 3 (5/20): LSU 2, Texas A&M 1 (W) 

Mack, 5/18-20: W, 15-11;IP-7.0;H-3;R-1;ER-1;BB-3;SO-7;WP-2;BK-0;HBP-0;IBB-0;AB-23;BF-27;FO-1;GO-13;NP-115

Game 3:

“COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Brittany Mack put together a masterful pitching performance and the LSU softball team manufactured two runs in the fourth inning en route to a 2-1 victory over No. 8 national seed Texas A&M Sunday to claim the 2012 NCAA College Station Regional championship.

“Mack limited the potent A&M offense (41-18) to one run on three hits.

“Mack registered seven strikeouts versus three walks and improved to 15-11 for the season. The senior right-hander navigated her way through six scoreless innings before A&M rallied for a run during the seventh inning.”

5 Pride Draftees move on to the Super Regional round of the NCAA tournament, while 2 draftees’ teams fell just short of regional tournament wins.

Michelle Moultrie of the University of Florida and UCLA’s Andrea Harrison both concluded their college careers this weekend.  Ironically, both Moultrie’s and Harrison’s teams were eliminated by Florida teams, dropping regional titles to the University of South Florida and Florida State, respectively.

Moultrie ends her University of Florida Tenure as the college’s career leader in batting average at .385 and stolen bases at 83 in 99 attempts.   Moultrie, the 12^th overall pick in the 2012 NPF Draft, was recently honored as the 2012 SEC Player of the Year and named to the All-SEC 1^st Team.

Harrison, the 4th overall pick in the 2012 NPF Draft, was recently named to the 2012 All-Pac-12 1^st Team. Harrison ends her senior year at UCLA with 15 homeruns in 184 at-bats this season.

The Number 1 2012 NPF Draft pick Brittany Mack and LSU eliminated the number 8 seeded Texas A&M this Sunday and will advance to the NCAA Super Regionals next weekend in a Tiger Fight between Mizzou and LSU.  In the NCAA Regional Series finale, Mack’s pitching held Texas A&M to just 1 run on 3 hits

Kristyn Sandberg and the University of Georgia eliminated the regional competition at home this weekend and will face Tennessee next weekend in their Super Regional Tournament.  Sandberg, the 5^th pick in the 2012 NPF Draft, was recently named to the 2012 All-SEC 1^st Team.

National RBI Leader Christi Orgeron and the University of Louisiana at Lafayette Ragin’ Cajuns advance to the NCAA Super Regionals against the Arizona Devils.  The 20^th overall pick in the 2012 NPF Draft, Orgeron was recently named the 2012 Sun Belt Conference Player of the Year.

Nikia Williams and the number 16 seed University of Washington will advance to the Super Regional round as well, with 16^th 2012 NPF Draft pick Williams scoring a homerun in the series closer against Harvard.  The Huskies will meet the Number 1 seeded Cal Bears and the 2012 Pac-12 Player of the year, USSSA Pride Draftee and 8^th pick in the 2012 NPF Draft Valerie Arioto.

The Pac-12 honored USSSA Pride Draftees in their All-Confrence softball announcement made on May 16.

Valerie Arioto, the 8th overall pick in the 2012 NPF Draft, was recognized as the Pac-12 Player of the Year.  Arioto, a senior utility player for the Cal Bears, is the first softball player in her school’s history to earn Play of the Year Honors.  Arioto, a 3-time All-Pac-12 honoree, leads the nation in walks per game (1.37), and leads her conference in 4 additional categories.  She earns a spot in the utility position of the All-Conference 1st Team.

Andrea Harrison, selected by the USSSA Pride as the 4th overall pick in the 2012 NPF Draft, was also named to the 2012 Pac-12 All-Conference first team for the 3rd time.  The UCLA senior fills the 1st team’s outfield/first base position.

Nikia WIlliams,  Pride Draftee and 16th overall pick in the 2012 NPF Draft, was named to the 2nd Team All-Pac-12.  The University of Washington senior fills the 2nd team’s utility position.

To read the entire All-Pac-12 Conference Release, click here.

Valerie Arioto, the 8th overall pick to the USSSA Pride in the 2012 NPF Draft and Cal Berkeley utility player, was named by the 2012 All-Conference Player of the Year by the Pac-12 on May 16.

Arioto, a 3-time All-Pac-12 honoree, is the first Cal player ever to be honored as the Pac-12 Player of the Year.  Arioto leads the nation in walks per game at 1.37.  The Pride Draftee leads her conference and lands in the national top ten in four additional categories: ERA (1.22, 9th in nation), slugging percentage (1.000, 3rd in nation), on-base percentage (.626, 2nd in nation), and homeruns (22, 6th in nation).

Arioto is a top-25 finalist for USA Softball Player of the Year and a top-10 finalist for the Lowe’s Senior CLASS award. She earns a spot on the Pac-12 All Conference First Team in the Utility position.

To read the entire All-Pac-12 Conference Release, click here.

USSSA Pride left fielder Jessica Mendoza made a guest appearance on ESPN breaking down softball regionals, making her guesses to who she thinks will advance in the Regional Tournament. If you can’t see this video embedded here, please click here to see it at ESPN.com.

About USSSA Florida Pride

On May 13, the NCAA released their 2012 Division I Softball Championship bracket, announcing the regional line-ups for the Nation’s top 64 softball programs, including the teams of all seven of our 2012 USSSA Pride Draftees.

Draftee Valerie Arioto and her team, the number 1 seed Cal Bears will host Iona, Boston University, and Arkansas in the University.  Cal will face Iona on May 18 at 7 p.m..

The winner of the Cal tournament will take on the champion of the Seattle regional, hosted by Draftee Nikia Williams and her team, the number 16 seed University of Washington.  The Huskies will take on Harvard, Texas Tech, and Maryland, and will kick off their regional run at 6 p.m. on May 18 vs. Harvard.

Draftee Andrea Harrison and the number 12 seed UCLA host their regional tournament in Los Angeles.  Hofstra, Florida State, and San Diego State will compete against UCLA, who will play their first game of the tournament on May 18 versus Hofstra at 5:30 p.m.

The winner of the Los Angeles Tournament will take on the winner of the regional tournament hosted by the number 5 seed University of Florida and Pride Draftee Michelle Moultrie. The Gators will face Florida Gulf Coast University, the University of Central Florida, and the University of South Florida in Gainseville.  The tournament opens on May 18 at 3:30 p.m. when Florida takes on UCF.

The University of Louisiana at Lafayette earned the number 14 seed.  The Ragin Cajuns and Draftee Christi Orgeron will host Stanford, Baylor, and Mississippi down in Lafayette from May 18-20.

Draftee Kristyn Sandberg and the number 10 seed Georgia Bulldogs will host their own regional tournament featuring Georgia Southern, North Carolina, and Coastal Carolina.  On May 18 at 5 p.m., Georgia will play in their first bout of the tournament against Coastal Carolina.

Louisiana State University, home to both draftee Brittany Mack and head coach Beth Torina, will play in a regional tournament hosted by Texas A&M, which also includes Texas State and Bethune Cookman College.  LSU and Texas State kick off the tournament at 3 p.m. on May 18.

Click here to see the 2012 NCAA Division Division I Softball Bracket in it’s entirety.

By Caitlin Schwartz

Via Calbears.com:

ASA Names Arioto, Henderson POY Finalists (5/9)

“BERKELEY – The Amateur Softball Association announced that it considers Valerie Arioto and Jolene Henderson two of the top 11 student-athletes in the country when the Golden Bear pair landed on the top-11 list of finalists for the 2012 USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year. The award – which is considered the most prestigious honor in Division I women’s collegiate softball, is designed to recognize outstanding athletic achievement by female collegiate softball players across the country – will be announced at the opening of the 2012 NCAA Women’s College World Series.”

To read entire article, visit Calbears.com

Vs. Arizona State University, May 10, 11, and 12

Game 1, 5/10: Cal 4, ASU 2

Game 2, 5/11: Cal 5, ASU 0

Game 3, 5/12: Cal 0, ASU 5

Batting: AB-5;R-2;H-1;RBI-2;BB-5;SO-2;PO-19;A-4;LOB-5

Pitching: W, 20-2 IP-7.0;H-6;R-0;ER-0;BB-1;SO-11;WP-0;BK-0;HBP-0;IBB-0;AB-29;BF-30;FO-4;GO-6;NP-108

Game 1:

“The No. 1 California softball team battled back from a two-run deficit to tie the game 2-2 in the bottom of the sixth against No. 2 Arizona State before senior Valerie Arioto unleashed a two-run, walk-off homer in the bottom of the seventh to defeat the Sun Devils 4-2.”

Game 2:

“Senior player of the year award candidate Valerie Arioto pitched the complete-game victory, shutting out the Sun Devils as she struck out 11 of them.”

Via UCLABruins.com:

Vs. Oregon, May 10, 11, and 12:


Game 1, 5/10: UCLA 10, Oregon 0

Game 2, 5/11: UCLA 2, Oregon 3

Game 3, 5/12: UCLA 2, Oregon 8

Orgeron, 5/10-12: AB-10;R-2;H-1;RBI-0;BB-1;SO-1;PO-2;A-0;LOB-2

Game 1:

“…the Bruins loaded the bases on a single up the middle by senior Andrea Harrison and a free pass to Bates would force home Snow with the Bruins’ sixth run.”

Game 2:

“Freshman Stephany LaRosa drew a walk and the inning was extended when senior Andrea Harrison reached on a booted ball at second. Bates then recorded the first Bruin hit of the ball game, going the opposite way and getting one down just inside the left-field chalk line to plate LaRosa and Harrison to make it 3-2. ”

Game 3:

“Senior Katie Schroeder led off with a slap single to second base, moved to second on a sacrifice by LaRosa and advanced to third on a ground out to second off the bat of seniorAndrea Harrison.”

For the second consecutive year, Christi Orgeron, the 20th overall pick made by the USSSA Pride in the 2012 NPF Draft, was named the Sun Belt Conference Player of the Year.  The Announcement was made by the SBC on May 9.

Orgeron, utility player for the University of Louisianna at Lafayette, leads the nation in RBI with 89 and RBI per game with 1.82.  Orgeron has also become the SBC career leader in doubles (62) and RBI (283).

Additionally, Orgeron leads her conference in RBI, homeruns, slugging percentage, walks, and total bases.

The Ragin’ Cajun earned a spot in an outfield position on the SBC All-Conference First Team.

For the complete All-Conference Announcements from the SBC, visit SunBeltSports.org.

Brittany Mack, the 1st overall pick made by the USSSA Pride in the 2012 NPF Draft, was named a 2012 SEC Co-Scholar Athlete of the Year on May 9.  Mack, a pitcher at Louisiana State University, shares the honor with Jennifer Fenton of Alabama.

Mack, an LSU senior, will graduate on May 18 with a degree in Kinesiology with a human movement concentration.

In addition to softball and studies, Mack stands out as the founder of the Geaux Play Foundation, which she started at LSU earlier this year.  Geaux Play allows special needs children to play sports and be physically active.  Mack and fellow LSU athletes visit schools in the Baton Rouge area and play sports with children with disabilities each week, including softball, baseball, football, kickball, and soccer.  Eventually, Mack’s goal is to spread the Geaux Play program across Louisiana, and, eventually, the entire nation.

For the complete All-Conference Announcement from the SEC, visit SECDigitalNetwork.com.

Michelle Moutlrie, the 12th overall pick to the USSSA Pride in the 2012 NPF Draft and the University of Florida centerfielder, was named by the 2012 All-Conference Player of the Year by the Southeastern Conference on May 8.

Moultrie is only the 4th Florida player to garner this award, and the 2nd Gator to do so within the last four years.  Moultrie leads the SEC in batting average at .395 and fielding percentage with a perfect 1.000.

A Lowe’s Senior CLASS Award Finalist, Moultrie also ranks 16th in the NCAA in runs per game at 1.07.  In the SEC, Moultrie also ranks 3rd in hits, doubles, and on-base percentage.

Moultrie also earned a spot in the outfield on the SEC All-Conference First Team.

For the complete All-Conference Announcement from the SEC, visit SECDigitalNetwork.com

Both the Southeastern Conference and the Sun Belt Conference have honored USSSA Pride Draftees, making their All-Conference player announcements today, May 8.

The Pride’s 12th 2012 NPF Draft pick, Michelle Moultrie of the University of Florida, was recognized as the 2012 SEC Player of the year.  Moultrie leads the SEC in both batting average at .395 and fielding percentage with a perfect 1.000. Moultrie also holds a position in the outfield on the SEC All-Conference first team

Number 1 pick Brittany Mack was awarded the 2012 SEC Co-Scholar Athlete of the Year title. Mack, a pitcher at Louisiana State University, majors in Kinesiology with a human movement concentration.  In addition to softball and studies, Mack has also founded Geaux Play, a foundation that she started at the beginning of the season whose goal is to allow special needs children to play sports and be physically active.

Rounding out the Pride Draftee’s presence in the SEC All-Conference selections, 5th overall draft pick Kristyn Sandberg was named to the First Team All-SEC.  The catcher from the University of Georgia was the only Bulldog who landed on the first team’s list.  Sandberg leads the SEC in on-base percentage at .547, which puts her 13th in OBP nationally.

In the Sun Belt Conference, Christi Orgeron was honored as the SBC Player of the Year for the second consecutive year.  Orgeron, the 20th pick in the 2012 NPF Draft, leads the nation in RBI with 89 and RBI per game at 1.82.  Oregeron also leads the SBC in 5 different categories, earning her an outfielder position on the SBC All-Conference First Team.

For complete All-Conference Announcements from both the SEC and the SBC, visit SECDigitalNetwork.com and SunBeltSports.org.

As the NCAA’s regular softball season draws to a close and conference tournaments (and eventually the 2012 Women’s College World Series) approach, let’s look at where the  2012 USSSA Pride Draftees and their college teams stand.

8th overall draft pick Valerie Arioto and her Cal Bears rank number 1 in all three of the major national polls (NCAA, USA Today/NFCA Coaches, and ESPN.com) with a 48-3 record and one series to go.  On May 10-11, the Bears will face off against #2 Arizona State.

Individually, University of Louisiana at Lafayette’s Christi Orgeron and Arioto find themselves in the national top ten best in 4 and 5 fields, respectively. Orgeron, the 20th overall pick in the 2012  NPF Draft, holds the top spot in the nation for RBI per game with 1.82, while Arioto has had the most walks of any player in the NCAA this season at 1.35 per game.

5th overall pick Kristyn Sandberg of Georgia currently ranks 13th nationally in on-base percentage at .547, and Nikia Williams, the 16th draft pick, has the 15th most sacrifice flies nationally with 4.0. Michelle Moultrie of Florida, the 12th draft pick, was 16th in runs per game with 1.07, and 1st Pick Brittany Mack ranked 40th in strikeouts-per-seven-innings with 8.0.

4th-pick Andrea Harrison of UCLA currently holds the 47th spot nationally in home runs per game with.27.  Harrison and UCLA will take on Oregon this Sunday in the closing series of their regular season from May 10-12.

Below, see in full where the 2012 USSSA Pride Draftees and their teams rank, courtesy of the NCAA.

TEAM RANKINGS:

INDIVIDUAL RANKINGS:

By Caitlin Schwartz

Courtesy of Albert Burford, Sports Contributor and LSUReveille

2012 is an exciting year for the NPF, it is also an exciting time for LSU’s star pitcher Brittany Mack who was selected with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2012 NPF Draft.

Recently she has started to hand the pitching reins over to another player at LSU, junior Rachele Fico as was demonstrated at a game recently against Georgia on Senior Day at Tiger Park.  Fico was ranked No. 7 in the SEC in strikeouts thrown and No. 12 in the conference with a 2.40 ERA.

According to LSUReveille  “Mack was named to the 2011 NFCA All-America Third Team and the 2011 All-Southeastern Conference First Team at the conclusion of last season…[she] ranked in the top six in the SEC in wins, batters struck out, earned run average and home runs allowed.”

This is definitely an exciting time for Fastpitch softball!

Via ragincajuns.com:

Vs. University of Louisiana at Monroe, May 5 and 6:


Game 1, 5/5: La. Monroe 4, Louisiana 2

Game 2, 5/5: La. Monroe 3, Louisiana 8

Game 3, 5/6: La. Monroe 4, Louisiana 11

Orgeron, 5/5-6: AB-9;R-3;H-3;RBI-4;BB-2;SO-0;PO-4;A-0;LOB-0

Game 2:

“The Cajuns struck first in the bottom half on a Cherry single up the middle, scoring Smith for a 1-0 lead. Smith led off the half inning with a single before advancing into scoring position following a Christi Orgeron walk.

“The Ragin’ Cajuns loaded the bases with two outs for Myers as the junior, just missed hitting her fourth grand slam of the season, doubled off the wall and cleared the bases. Orgeron then tripled to right to score Myers, before Matte Haack recorded an RBI single for the sixth UL run.”

Game 3:

“Senior Christi Orgeron was 2-for-4 on the afternoon, drove in three runs and hit her team-leading 20^th homerun of the season.

“Myers singled with one out in the bottom of the first as Orgeron came to the dish and launched a 1-1 pitch off the right field foul pole for a two-run blast to cut the La.-Monroe lead to 3-2.

“UL added four more runs in the bottom of the sixth as the first four Cajuns reached base, including an RBI single from Orgeron. Later in the inning, Cherry hit a sacrifice fly to right field, Orgeron scored on a wild pitch and Cormier recorded an RBI single to increase the Louisiana lead to 11-4.”

Via georgiadogs.com:

Vs. Arkansas, May 5 and 6:


Game 1, 5/5: Arkansas 2, Georgia 3

Game 2, 5/5: Arkansas 2, Georgia 1

Game 3, 5/6: Arkansas 1, Georgia 7

Sandberg, 5/5-6: AB-6;R-1;H-2;RBI-1;BB-1;SO-0;PO-13;A-3;LOB-0

Game 1:

“Freshman Paige Wilson’s single brought senior Kristyn Sandberg to the plate where she was hit by a pitch to put runners at first and second with one out.”

Game 3:

“Senior Kristyn Sandberg then closed the game at 7-1 in the fifth with her 17th home run of the season.”

Via gohuskies.com:

Vs. Stanford, May 4, 5, and 6

Game 1, 5/4: Washington 0, Stanford 4

Game 2, 5/5: Washington 0, Stanford 1

Game 3, 5/6: Washington 0, Stanford 10

Williams, 5/4-6: AB-8;R-0;H-2;RBI-0;BB-2;SO-1;PO-5;A-1;LOB-4

Game 1:

“Kimi Pohlman, Nikia Williams, Kimberlee Souza and Jenna Clifton also had hits in the game.”

Via calbears.com:

Arioto, Ziegenhirt Visit Sheldon High School (4/30)

“Senior utility Valerie Arioto and junior catcher Lindsey Ziegenhirt spent their Monday morning connecting with Ziegenhirt’s roots with a trip to Sheldon High School in the Sacramento Valley, where Lindsey’s mother Laura Ziegenhirt teaches. The elder Ziegenhirt’s classes have been collecting toiletries for Arioto‘s community service project and voting for Val daily for the Lowe’s Senior CLASS Award.

“All season, Arioto and her Golden Bears have been collecting unopened toiletries such as shampoo, conditioner and body wash to donate to a local women’s shelter. Ziegenhirt challenged her students to bring in items and the Huskies collected over 900 items in just one week.

‘”Lindsey and I had a great time meeting the kids at Sheldon High!” Arioto said. “They are an awesome group! They were so enthusiastic about giving back!”

“Since fan balloting counts a third of the voting results for the Lowe’s Senior CLASS Award – with the remaining two thirds determined by NCAA Division I coaches and national media members – Laura Ziegenhirt’s two microbiology and one honors biology classes have been voting for Val.”

Arioto Merits Tom Hansen Pac-12 Medal (5/4)

“After a storied career that is hopefully far from over, California softball utility Valerie Arioto earned herself one of the most coveted awards in the Pac-12 – the Tom Hansen Pac-12 Conference Medal – which is given to the top male and female senior student-athletes at each member institution.

‘”This award is really a reflection of all of the support and guidance I have received from my family, friends, coaches and staff at Berkeley,” Arioto said. “It’s an opportunity for me to say thank you to everyone!”’

To read the full article, visit calbears.com

Vs. Oregon State, May 4, 5, and 6

Game 1, 5/4: Oregon State 1, Cal 9

Game 2, 5/5: Oregon State 2, Cal 4

Game 3, 5/6: Oregon State 1, Cal 4

Arioto, 5/4-6:

Batting: AB-8;R-3;H-2;RBI-1;BB-3;SO-0;PO-19;A-1;LOB-0

Pitching: IP-2.0;H-3;R-0;ER-0;BB-1;SO-2;WP-0;BK-0;HBP-0;IBB-0;AB-9;BF-10;FO-1;GO-3;NP-40

Game 1:

“Echavarria and Reid scored when Valerie Arioto lined to center, when it was dropped at the fence.”

Game 2:

“The Golden Bears got solo shots from Valerie Arioto and Breana Kostreba while Victoria Jones and Jace Williams accounted for the other two RBI.

“Arioto - who notched her 21st homer of the season before even stepping foot in the circle – pitched the first two innings, in which she struck out two and allowed three hits.”

Via uclabruins.com:

Vs. Arizona, May 4, 5,and 6:


Game 1, 5/4: UCLA 10, Arizona 4

Game 2, 5/5: UCLA 7, Arizona 2

Game 3, 5/6: UCLA 6, Arizona 7

Harrison, 5/4-5/6: AB-11;R-3;H-6;RBI-3;BB-1;SO-0;PO-4;A-0;LOB-0

Game 1:

“Seniors Samantha Camuso and Andrea Harrison both drove in a pair of runs.

“Harrison followed with a single up the middle to score Snow to make it 1-0, but Schroeder would be thrown out at home when she ran through the stop sign at third.

“…a walk to LaRosa loaded the bases and another free pass issued to Harrison brought in Fox to make it 6-4.

“A walk to Yudin reloaded the bases and Camuso followed with a single up the middle to plate LaRosa and Harrison to make it 9-4.”

Game 2:

“Senior Andrea Harrison and junior B.B. Bates each had three-hit games…

“Bates and Harrison combined for six of the Bruins’ eight hits.

“UCLA tacked on one more in the fifth. Harrison led off with a double to left, Bates walked and both runners moved up on a sacrifice by Yudin. Camuso then lifted a sacrifice fly to center to bring in Harrison to make it 3-1.

“Harrison singled to right to plate Schroeder for the Bruins’ fifth run, as LaRosa took third on a fielding error by right fielder Alex Lavine.

“Camuso walked to load the bases and Tiumalu was then issued another bases-loaded free pass, as freshman Sam Duran, who was running for Harrison, scored to make it 7-1.”

Game 3:

“Seniors Andrea Harrison and Dani Yudin each recorded a pair of hits in their final regular-season games in Westwood, as that trio combined for eight of the Bruins’ nine hits.

“The Bruins jumped all over the Wildcats in their first at-bat. With one out, freshman Stephany LaRosa singled to right and Harrison moved her to third on a single down the right-field line.”

Via gatorzone.com:

Michelle Moultrie & Aja Paculba Among 39 Gator Student-Athletes Graduating This Weekend (5/3)

“Gator great softball players Aja Paculba (Wildomar, Calif.) and Michelle Moultrie (Jacksonville, Fla.) are two of 39 Florida student-athletes participating in commencement ceremonies on the UF campus this weekend, both earning their undergraduate degrees from Florida after stellar careers for the Gator softball program.

“Moultrie, who will graduate with an undergrad degree in Business Administration, with a specialization in Sport Management in four years, is one of the most accomplished Gator softball players. Recently named a 2012 Capital One Academic All-District 4 selection, Moultrie was both a 2011 All-American and Academic All-American for the Gators. Named the 2011 WCWS Co-Most Outstanding Player, Moultrie is a top-10 finalist for the 2012 Lowe’s Senior CLASS Award and USA Softball’s Player of the Year as she wraps up her collegiate eligibility this spring.

“Like Paculba, Moultrie was drafted into the NPF organization in the 2012 Senior Draft to the USSSA (Orlando) Florida Pride, with the opportunity to continue her career professionally alongside former Gators Francesca Enea and Kelsey Bruder. A member of the 2011 USA Softball Women’s National Team, Moultrie won two Gold Medals last year, helping lead Team USA to Gold at the World Cup of Softball and Pan American Games last summer and fall. Moultrie has additionally also been named to the 2012 USA Softball Women’s National Team for the upcoming World Championships this year.

“Moultrie Leads SEC in batting average and fielding percentage, ranks third in hits, doubles and on-base percentage, checks in fifth in runs scored and slugging percentage, ninth in homers throughout 2012 league play. UF’s career stolen-bases leader, Moultrie has dropped 23 bunt singles this season to contribute to her 69 overall donning the Orange and Blue.”

Softball’s Moultrie & Horton Pick Up Capital One Academic All-District 4 First Team Honors (5/4)

“For the second-consecutive season, Florida softball senior Michelle Moultrie (Jacksonville, Fla.) and junior Kelsey Horton (Valrico, Fla.) both grace the Capital One Academic All-District 4 First Team honor roll, released Thursday. The duo will next advance to the 2012 national ballot for Academic All-America consideration.

“Moultrie and Horton made it UF’s 11th-consecutive season with at least one Academic All-District member.

“Moultrie, who completed her undergrad degree at the University of Florida in Business Administration with a specialization in Sport Management just this week, was one of those four Academic All-Americans last season. After earning Capital One Academic All-District 3 First Team honors for the first time during her UF career, Moultrie was then a Capital One Academic All-America Third Team honoree in 2011.

“Also a top-10 finalist for the 2012 Lowe’s Senior Class Award and USA Softball’s Player of the Year Award, Moultrie Leads SEC in batting average and fielding percentage, ranks third in hits, doubles and on-base percentage, checks in fifth in runs scored and slugging percentage, ninth in homers throughout 2012 league play. UF’s career stolen-bases leader, Moultrie has dropped 23 bunt singles this season to contribute to her 69 overall donning the Orange and Blue

“Both Horton and Moultrie have additionally been named to the SEC Academic Honor Roll through each year of their Gator careers, respectively.

“Moultrie and Horton are two of five Gators who are error-free on the season defensively for the Orange and Blue.”

Vs. University of Alabama, May 4, 5, and 6:

Game 1, 5/4: Alabama 1, Florida 4

Game 2, 5/5: Alabama 9, Florida 1

Game 3, 5/6: Alabama 5, Florida 3

Moultrie, 5/4-6: AB-8;R-2;H-2;RBI-1;BB-1;SO-3;PO-6;A-0;LOB-0

Game 2:

“After a scoreless fourth for both clubs, Florida added its lone run of the contest on a senior Michelle Moultrie (Jacksonville, Fla.) sac fly in the top of the fifth to narrow the margin 8-1 and force a sixth inning.

“… Moultrie knocked her sacrifice fly to deep center, plating Fagan, before a groundout retired the side.

“In addition to K. Fagan and Gammel hits, freshman Sami Fagan (Dunnellon, Fla.) and Moultrie both connected for UF’s two additional hits on the afternoon, Moultrie with a hard-hit two-out grounder through the right side in the third and S. Fagan with a leadoff hopper to shortstop in the fourth.”

Game 3:

“Senior Michelle Moultrie (Jacksonville, Fla.) led off with a walk to set up Haeger’s two-run jack for a 5-2 ballgame.

“Moultrie connected for a one-out base hit, but Haeger hit into a double play to retire UF in the bottom of the inning.”

Via Matt Dunaway, Associate SID, lsusports.net:

Vs. Kentucky, May 4, 5,and 6:


Game 1, 5/4: LSU 3, Kentucky 4

Game 2, 5/5: LSU 1, Kentucky 2

Game 3, 5/6: LSU 0, Kentucky 1

Mack, 5/4-6:

Batting: AB-2;R-0;H-0;RBI-0;BB-0;SO-1;PO-0;A-0;LOB-2

Pitching: L,14-10;IP-6.0;H-4;R-2;ER-2;BB-3;SO-9;WP-0;BK-0;HBP-0;IBB-0;AB-21;BF-24;FO-5;GO-3;NP-98

Game 2:

“With the loss, Brittany Mack fell to 14-10 on the season. The senior right-hander notched nine strikeouts versus three walks. She held UK to a pair of runs on a quartet of hits.”

National Pro Fastpitch

Nashville, TN-

National Pro Fastpitch has teamed up with MTV and the producers of “Made” for an episode that will air on May 5^th. Kelley Montalvo of the Akron Racers was selected as the “Made” Coach and was given an opportunity to coach and mentor a young softball player along her journey of trying out for the high school team.

“National Pro Fastpitch is so very proud to have had the opportunity that was extended to us by MTV and ‘Made” to make an impact on the life of a young person. I don’t think you could find a better role model than the Akron Racer’s Kelley Montalvo and I know Kelley considered the chance to work with Liz a privilege. NPF and our core of extraordinary women professional athletes are committed to the positive influence and inspiration of young people,” commented NPF Commissioner Cheri Kempf

“We also appreciate the willingness of our corporate partners at Boombah, Worth, Wilson, and Ringor to readily get involved with making a difference for Elizabeth. We wish Elizabeth success and continued confidence not only in softball, but in whatever she decides to accomplish.”

This episode of “Made” featuring Kelley Montalvo will air on Saturday, May 5^th at  2pm EST/1pm CST. Check out the link below for a sneak peak on the episode.

About USSSA Florida Pride
The USSSA Florida Pride is a professional franchise in the National Pro Fastpitch League that is owned and operated by USSSA. The amateur organization of USSSA has multi-sport coverage and encompasses teams and players from the United States and abroad.

About NPF
National Pro Fastpitch is headquartered in Nashville, TN. The league, created to give elite female fastpitch players the opportunity to pursue a professional career in their chosen sport, has operated since 1997 under the names of Women’s Pro Fastpitch (WPF) and Women’s Pro Softball League (WPSL). NPF is the Official Development Partner of Major League Baseball in the category of women’s fastpitch softball since 2002.

Via ragincajuns.com:

Orgeron and Wallace Sweep SBC Player of the Week Awards (4/23):

“After breaking and tying a pair of NCAA records, Louisiana’s Christi Orgeron and Jordan Wallace were named the Sun Belt Conference Softball Player and Pitcher of the Week, as announced by the league office on Monday.

“…The No. 7/8 Cajuns (41-2, 16-2) swept the conference weekly honors for the second time this season with Orgeron and Wallace combining for seven SBC Player/Pitcher of the Week awards this season and totaling 11 weekly SBC accolades overall for UL.

“The fifth year senior, Orgeron, was also recognized as the College Sports Madness Sun Belt Softball Player of the week.

“Orgeron was 4-for-7 on the week with three home runs, ten RBI and six runs scored. The senior hit her sixth grand slam of the season, and the ninth of her career, in game one of the doubleheader against Florida Atlantic, both equaling NCAA records for slams. Orgeron added her team-leading 18th blast of the season in the series finale on Sunday, giving her 66 in her career and tying former UL slugger Gabriele Bridges for third all-time in school history. The New Orleans native leads the nation with 83 runs driven in and sits sixth on the NCAA RBI charts with 277 in her career – just 16 RBI shy of fifth place.”

Orgeron and Wallace Receive Weekly Honors From LSWA (4/27):

“Christi Orgeron was named the hitter of the week and Jordan Wallace split the pitcher of the week award with LSU’s Rachele Fico in the Louisiana Sports Writers Association (LSWA) weekly award announced on Friday.

“The accolades marked the fourth time both Orgeron and Wallace have received the weekly awards from the LSWA.

“A senior outfielder for the Cajuns, Orgeron made the most of her four hits with three home runs and 10 RBIs. The New Orleans, La. native also connected for her sixth grand slam of the season, and ninth of her career, in game one of a doubleheader against South Alabama, both equaling NCAA records. She also added her team-leading 18th dinger of the season during Sunday’s series finale and matched former UL slugger Gabriele Bridges for third in program history, with 66. Orgeron has driven home a NCAA-leading 83 RBIs and sits sixth on the NCAA chart with 277 for her career.”

Vs. Western Kentucky University, April 28and 29:


Game 1, 4/28: WKU 1, Louisiana 4

Game 2, 4/28: WKU 1, Louisiana 2

Game 3, 4/29: WKU 2, Louisiana 4

Orgeron, 4/28-28: AB-13;R-2;H-6;RBI-2;BB-1;SO-1;PO-6;A-0;LOB-1

Games 1 and 2:

“Christi Orgeron broke a 1-1 tie in the fifth inning of game one with a two-run shot, giving her a team-high 19 homeruns on the year and upping her RBI total to 85 on the year, which leads the nation. The long ball marked the fourth straight game, in which Orgeron has homered.

Game 1:

“Orgeron then stepped in and launched the first pitch she saw over the right field wall for the two-run advantage.”

Game 3:

“Christi Orgeron and Haack led off the frame with back-to-back singles before Cherry laced a ball to left field later in the inning to score the two Cajuns.”

USSSA Pride’s Ashley Charters and Jenn Salling met with the Oviedo, Florida Junior Pride team following their practice. The opportunity allowed the junior Pride team to ask a number of great questions and learn what it takes to play in the National Pro Fastpitch. The Oviedo Junior Pride is an U12 team that did a great job in showing Charters and Salling some of their team spirit with a few pre-game cheers.

There are certain injuries that will occur with athletes and seem to bring some familiarity to parents when they hear the diagnosis.  One such injury that seems to be more prevalent than most are Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) tears in our youth athletes.  It seems that more athletes have been dealing with this injury at a younger ages in middle school and very commonly in high school.  Although the majority of these ACL tears seem to be targeted towards young female athletes as compared to their male counterparts the problem is still too prevalent.

The rise of such injuries seem to be rooted in several reasons due to the high volume of youth involvement in competitive sports as compared to years before and specialization in the same sport year round.  The more competitive young athletes become the higher the exposure rate to athletic injuries.  Young athletes who are still developing face the risk of constant wear and tear from playing the same sport year round, and developing only the same group of muscles required for their sport.  Over time this specialization in one sport will place a great deal of stress upon a young athlete’s developing body.

In addition, research over time has shown a higher occurrence of ACL tears in young female athletes as compared to male athletes of the same age.  The muscle development, hormones, and anatomical design have all been theorized in some way to increase the likelihood of ACL tears in female athletes. Despite all these theories none has been proven to be the single main reason as to why female athletes tear their ACLs at a greater rate than males. Many of these factors are not something that can be completely controlled except the muscular imbalances in females who are often quadriceps dominant and rely heavily on these muscles rather than using their hamstrings.

The main complication that arises with ACL tears in the pre adolescent athletes is their bodies are still maturing.  In addition, a pre adolescent athlete has growth plates, which are still open, and complicates the procedure for a normal ACL reconstruction.  Many times physicians recommend a conservative approach to postpone surgery and allow the growth plates to close.  In the long run this recommendation can cause further complications in the young athletes with an increase of meniscal tears and chondral bone defects.

One way parents and coaches can help prevent these ACL tears in their young athletes are to make sure they are not playing the same sport year round especially during the pre adolescent years.  Should your child sustain an ACL tear and must postpone surgery due to their age and development parents should restrict playing sports that do not involve a great deal of cutting and change of direction in hopes to prevent long-term damage.  With female athletes especially, it is important for coaches to explain and demonstrate proper dynamic movements such as cutting, jumping, and change of directions. So many ACL tears in female athletes take place with no contact but result from a jump or a sharp change of direction.

Previous studies have found that male athletes have more neuromuscular development and better techniques when it comes to jumping and change of direction.  Many different types of ACL prevention routines have been developed to help coaches understand what muscles and movements need to be developed in growing athletes.  As parents of competitive young athletes, take the time to reach out to surrounding health care providers whether it be an orthopedic doctor, an athletic trainer, or a physical therapist for extra advice on how to implement some preventative exercises to prevent ACL tears.

Where to Begin?

The implementation of an ACL prevention program will help neuromuscular development, which is necessary to train some muscle imbalances in younger specifically female athletes.

The vital components of any ACL prevention program

• Performing a proper dynamic warm-up
• Plyometric jump training with emphasis of double and single leg landing
• Strengthening body and postural control
• Strengthening lower body muscles
• Learning to use trunk/core stabilization
• Training body awareness
• Using proper mechanics on sport specific components.

Follow Sonya on Twitter: @SonyaMontoya2

Via Matt Dunaway, Associate SID, lsusports.net:

Vs. University of Florida, April 24 (double header):

LSU 1, Florida 2

LSU 1, Florida 0 

Mack: IP-7.0;H-4;R-0;ER-0;BB-2;SO-8;AB-26;BF-29;NP-121

Game 2:

“Brittany Mack fired a four-hit shutout as the No. 23 LSU softball team grinded out a 1-0 victory to earn a split of a SEC doubleheader versus No. 2 Florida Tuesday at Katie Seashole Pressly Stadium.”

“…Mack notched eight strikeouts versus two walks to improve to 14-8 on the season. She escaped a bases loaded jam with one out during the sixth inning. The senior right-hander dug deep and forced Bailey Castro along with Ensley Gammel to pop out and ground out in succession.

“…Mack regrouped to record the final out of the game in-style. She fanned Sami Fagan to secure the 2-1 triumph.

‘…”My goal was to try and establish strike one because I saw it worked so well for Fico in the first game,” Mack said. “However, I wasn’t able to do that consistently especially early in the game. I had to battle back more times than I wanted to. At the end of the day, it’s a great feeling to pick up a win against a very talented Florida team.”’

Vs. Georgia, April 27, 28,and 29:


Game 1, 4/27: LSU 0, Georgia 1

Game 2, 4/28: LSU 1, Georgia 6

Game 3, 4/29: LSU 1, Georgia 0

Mack, 4/27-29:

Batting: AB-2;R-0;H-1;RBI-1;BB-0;SO-0;PO-0;A-0;LOB-0

Pitching: L,14-9;IP-7.0;H-8;R-6;ER-4;BB-0;SO-7;WP-1;BK-0;HBP-4;IBB-0;AB-29;BF-33;FO-6;GO-6;NP-131

Game 2:

“Brittany Mack was dealt the loss and yielded six runs, four earned, on eight hits. She garnered seven strikeouts and fell to 14-9 for the season.

‘”Georgia has such a tough offense,” head coach Beth Torina said. “They really find a way to make things happen. I thought today was just a case that they hit some balls in the right spot where we couldn’t defend them. I didn’t think anything was just crushed off of Brittany Mack. I didn’t think there were any mistake pitches she threw. They just put balls in the right spot, and that’s what a good offense will do.”

“…A fielding error by Mack followed to place runners on the corners.”

Game 3:

“Brittany Mack provided the Senior Day heroics, but not in the way that the decorated All-American has been accustomed to during her LSU career – she ripped a two-out, RBI double for her first career hit and first career RBI as the No. 23 LSU softball team claimed a 1-0 victory over No. 12 Georgia during Sunday’s regular season home finale at Tiger Park.”

Via georgiadogs.com:

Vs. Kennesaw State, April 25:

Kennesaw State 1, Georgia 9

Sandberg, 4/25: AB-0;R-0;H-0;RBI-0;BB-2;SO-0;PO-8;A-0;LOB-0

“With senior Kristyn Sandberg loading the bases on a hit by pitch, Griffin doubled off the left center wall to put the score at 3-0. Two more runs came across the plate with junior Christine Olney’s extra-base hit to end the first at 5-0.”

Vs. LSU, April 27, 28,and 29:


Game 1, 4/27: LSU 0, Georgia 1

Game 2, 4/28: LSU 1, Georgia 6

Game 3, 4/29: LSU 1, Georgia 0

Sandberg, 4/27-29: AB-8;R-2;H-4;RBI-1;BB-4;SO-2;PO-23;A-2;LOB-2

Game 1:

“Kristyn Sandberg, who reached base six times in seven plate appearances, led off the 15^th inning with a walk and moved to second on a groundout by Ashley Razey. With one away, Griffin reached on a two-base error that scored Sandberg for the game-winner.

“…Sandberg recorded the second out by making a diving catch in foul territory. LSU’s runner at third seemed to score the winning run, but was called out for leaving early, as Sandberg had already thrown the ball back to Arevalo in the circle.”

Game 2:

“…Kristyn Sandberg led the Bulldogs offensively, going 3-for-4 at the plate with a pair of singles and a double. Sandberg also scored a run for Georgia.

“…Ashley Pauly, who reached on an error, came home on a Sandberg single and made it a 2-0 game.

“…Georgia added a pair of runs in the top of the third to take a 5-0 lead after Sandberg opened the inning with a double.

“…Goulder came away with her second RBI-single of the day, rocketing a pitch to a diving Allison Falcon at second that scored Sandberg from second and extended the Bulldog lead to 6-1.”

Via gohuskies.com:

Vs. Arizona State University, April 27, 28,and 29:


Game 1, 4/27: Washington 18, ASU 1

Game 2, 4/28: Washington 3, ASU 6

Game 3, 4/29: Washington 4, ASU 5

Williams, 4/27-29: AB-7;R-1;H-1;RBI-0;BB-2;SO-0;PO-4;A-0;LOB-2

Game 2:

“Senior Nikia Williams (Mission Viejo, Calif.) led off the second with the first Husky hit of the game, a triple down the right field line.
”

Game 3:

“It was the final regular season home game of 2012 Sunday afternoon as UW honored four very special student-athletes following the game. Jenna Clifton, Kimi Pohlman, Taylor Smith, and Nikia Williams all played in their final game as a Husky at Husky Softball Stadium.

“…Williams (Mission Viejo, Calif.) walked with two outs.

“…Williams nearly tied the game in the third with a deep ball to the warning track in left field with Inglesby on base.

“…Williams walked with as Wright was the winning run at home plate.”

Via calbears.com:

Vs. UCLA, April 27, 28, and 29

Game 1, 4/27: UCLA 0, Cal 3

Game 2, 4/28: UCLA 0, Cal 8

Game 3, 4/29: UCLA 3, Cal 10

Arioto, 2/27-29:

Batting: AB-4;R-4;H-1;RBI-1;BB-6;SO-2;PO-15;A-1;LOB-0

Pitching: W,19-2;IP-4.0;H-4;R-0;ER-0;BB-2;SO-4;WP-0;BK-0;HBP-0;IBB-0;AB-14;BF-16;FO-3;GO-3;NP-64

Game 1:

“After Valerie Arioto singled to left, Jace Williams doubled to the wall in center, which allowed Arioto advanced to third. With a high shot to right, Cordes plated Arioto with her fourth sac fly of the year.”

Game 2:

“Valerie Arioto (19-2) pitched four innings of scoreless ball in which she fanned four and gave up four hits.

“…Jamia Reid doubled just fair down the left-field line and Valerie Arioto walked to put runners at first and second with one out for Jace Williams. On the first pitch of the at-bat, Williams doubled to left-center, scoring Reid. With the bases loaded – Arioto at third, Williams at second and Danielle Henderson at first after walking – Cheyenne Cordes grounded to third base, but catcher Alyssa Tiumalu dropped the ball, allowing Arioto to score.

“…After a long foul ball into the left-field stands, Arioto took a shot to the leg. Decker went to third and Arioto to second when Williams grounded out to first.”

Game 3:

“Sunday’s game was the first double-digit walk performance by the Bears with Frani Echavarria and Valerie Arioto each earning…

“Cal started things off with back-to-back singles. Arioto loaded the bases with a walk, and Jamia Reid put on the delayed steal for the first run. With the bases juiced, Cheyenne Cordes singled to left to plate Decker and Arioto.

“…Arioto walked in the first run of the game, leaving the bases loaded for Jace Williams, who singled to center to plate Jamia Reid and Decker. A wild pitch plated Arioto from third.

“A bases-loaded sacrifice fly from Williams scored Arioto from third.”

Via gatorzone.com:

In the Twilight of Her Career, Moultrie Keeps Coming Through for Gators (4/24)

Read full article on gatorzone.com

Vs. Louisiana State University, April 24 (double header):

LSU 1, Florida 2

LSU 1, Florida 0

Moultrie, 4/24: AB-8;R-0;H-2;RBI-1;BB-0;SO-1;PO-1;A-0;LOB-1

“…senior center fielder Michelle Moultrie (Jacksonville, Fla.), who sent a walk-off RBI double down the left-field line to plate Damico for her seventh game-winning RBI of the 2012 season, giving UF the 2-1, eight-inning victory and marking Florida’s sixth come-from-behind and second walk-off victory of the season.

“…Moultrie laid down a two-out bunt single in the third for the first hit of the game for either team, while LSU’s Tammy Wray singled through the right side to lead off the fifth for the Tigers’ first hit.

“…Moultrie reached on a LSU defensive miscue for runners on first and second with two down.”

Vs. University of Kentucky, April 27, 28, and 29:

Game 1, 4/27: Kentucky 2, Florida 0

Game 2, 4/28: Kentucky 0, Florida 5

Game 3, 4/29: Kentucky 5, Florida 1

Moultrie, 2/27-29: AB-9;R-1;H-5;RBI-2;BB-1;SO-0;PO-6;A-0;LOB-0

Game 2:

“Saturday’s Florida softball game was all about Gator senior All-American centerfielder Michelle Moultrie (Jacksonville, Fla.) as the Orange and Blue evened the series with Kentucky (25-27, 11-13 SEC), blanking the Wildcats, 5-0, at Katie Seashole Pressly Stadium on Senior Day. Moultrie and her family were honored in a pre-game ceremony, before mother, Cynthia, threw out Saturday’s first pitch in front of an Orange and Blue-clad crowd that donned No. 16 stickers for UF’s lone senior.

“…In fitting Senior Day fashion, Moultrie blasted a solo shot, her team-leading 10th homer of the season, to right center in her first at-bat of the contest to give No. 2 Florida (43-7, 20-4 SEC) a lead it wouldn’t relinquish.

“…As she’s done so many times, Moultrie led the Gators Saturday with a 2-for-4 performance at the plate, with two RBI and one run scored for UF…

“…Moultrie, a top-10 finalist for the 2012 Lowe’s Senior CLASS Award and USA Softball’s Player of the Year Award, added her second hit and RBI of the day in the second frame for the 4-0 Florida advantage…

“…Ellen Weaver started the game in the circle for the Wildcats, giving up both homers to Moultrie and Castro before Rachel Riley came on in relief for the final 5.0.

“…A Moultrie groundout advanced both Medina and Damico into scoring position for a Gator threat, but a groundout retired the side, leaving just three outs left for the Florida win in the top of the seventh.”

Game 3:

“Kentucky struck for its first run of the game thanks to a Kara Dill RBI single in the third and senior Michelle Moultrie (Jacksonville, Fla.) started the Gators off right, countering with a leadoff bunt single in the home half of the inning, but Bell forced a foul out, pop-up and fly out to strand Moultrie.

“…Moultrie reached on a hit-by-pitch before freshman Sami Fagan (Dunnellon, Fla.) dropped a bunt single of her own.”

Via uclabruins.com:

Vs. Utah, April 27, 28,and 29:


Game 1, 4/27: UCLA 0, Cal 3

Game 2, 4/28: UCLA 0, Cal 8

Game 3, 4/29: UCLA 3, Cal 10

Harrison, 4/27-29: AB-8;R-1;H-3;RBI-2;BB-1;SO-2;PO-2;A-0;LOB-0

Game 1:

“UCLA had three hits in the game, with seniors Andrea Harrison and Dani Yudin and sophomore Kellie Fox posting singles.

“…Harrison singled to center.”

Game 2:

“UCLA had another opportunity in the fourth after a leadoff single by senior Andrea Harrison and a one-out walk for senior Dani Yudin, but could not drive home a run.”

Game 3:

“Seniors Andrea Harrison and Katie Schroeder each hit home runs, but the 14th-ranked Bruins lost 10-3 on Sunday to #1 California at Levine-Fricke Field.

“…The Bruins got on the board first with a pair of runs in their initial at-bat. Schroeder led off with a single to center, moved to second on a sacrifice by LaRosa and scored on a first-pitch homer to left by Harrison, her 14th of the season, to make it 2-0.”

The USSSA Pride’s Ashley Charters ventured out to the local USSSA tournament to promote the National Pro Fastpitch and the USSSA Pride.   One of the sites for the 11U teams took place at Okeechobee Park in West Palm Beach, Florida.  Despite the weather bringing some unexpected showers early in the morning the moral was not lost.  Charters was on hand to meet a number of the teams in the tournament before and in between games.  One of the teams Charters met with was the newly developed Junior Pride team, which bears the same uniforms as the professional USSSA Pride.

Many of the teams that showed up to the USSSA sanctioned tournament were excited to learn that one of the USSSA Pride’s series will be played a few hours away at the Space Coast Stadium in Viera Beach, Florida on July 14^th.  Overall the appearance was a great success in spreading the word of the NPF and gaining some home support for the USSSA Pride.

The entire Cruiser travel softball organization and some of the other local travel teams in the area turned out for an exciting evening filled with some question and answer time with the USSSA Pride’s Ashley Charters and Sonya Montoya, the Pride’s athletic trainer.  The turnout was a great start to the weekend promoting the game of softball in the Martin County area.  Parents and coaches also came out to hear some good advice on Charter’s experiences playing softball in college and in the National Pro Fastpitch.  Montoya was also asked to speak to parents and coaches on a few helpful tips geared toward nutrition and staying healthy while playing softball.

Following the Q and A time, Charters was able to give a hitting demonstration on proper bunting, slapping, and hitting.  The opportunity gave the local coaches and parents a great deal of feedback on what they are teaching their teams and the importance of teaching good technique early in order to form good habits in the box.

Following the hitting demonstration, there was plenty of time for all the young softball players to get autographs, USSSA Pride season schedules, and meet their favorite USSSA Pride player, Ashley Charters.  The turnout and positive feedback from parents and kids alike show the need to continue reaching out to the surrounding Florida softball community to promote the National Pro Fastpitch so the young girls of today will have a place to play in the future.

Leah O’Brien-Amico has traveled around the world as an Olympic softball player and has met a lot of interesting people through her contacts with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, but the person who made the biggest impact in her life was a college teammate at the University of Arizona.

Julie Reitan was a starting outfielder for the two-time defending national champion when she passed away unexpectedly as a result of hypoglycemia. Fifteen years later, her tragic death still has an impact on O-Brien-Amico.

“What that did in my life is to remind me that tomorrow is never guaranteed and that what we do today does matter,” she said. “What I want to encourage the athletes to do is focus on today and making it count.”

O’Brien-Amico will be in Montgomery tonight as the featured speaker at the 53rd Jimmy Hitchcock Memorial Award banquet at Frazer United Methodist Church.

A mother of three who never stops, the former three-time Olympian will speak at an FCA prayer breakfast for area softball players on Friday morning before flying back to California.

At a banquet famous for its diversity of speakers from Major League pitcher Dave Dravecky to college football coach Lou Holtz to former Heisman Trophy winner Danny Wueffel, O’Brien-Amico will be the first female speaker in the history of the banquet.

“It’s great,” she said. “They’ve had really great speakers like Lou Holtz and Les Steckel in the past. It doesn’t (add any pressure being the first female) because you just go out and be who you are.

The left-handed outfielder made a name for herself in college softball at a time when the sport was just beginning to take off. A three-time All-American, she led Arizona to three consecutive national championships in the mid-1990s. She finished her stellar career with an incredible .563 batting average in the Women’s College World Series, going 31 for 55 while striking out just once.

She visited Montgomery in 2004 as part of the U.S. Olympic team that made a stop at Lagoon Park and beat a college all-star team in front of an overflow crowd.

She helped Team USA win the gold medal in 1996, 2000 and 2004 and admits it won’t be the same watching the Olympics this year after the Olympic committee voted to remove softball from the participating sports.

“I don’t know how the other (Olympic) girls feel, probably similar to the way I feel, but I’m just not excited about the Olympics this year,” she said. “I just won’t see the Olympics in the same way any more, even though I’ll be rooting on our Olympians to do well.”

She was inducted into the Athletes in Action’s Hall of Faith in 2008 along with fellow Montgomery native Bart Starr and will be coaching fellow Olympian and former Alabama All-American Kelly Kretschman (along with former Alabama All-American Charlotte Morgan) on the Florida Pride’s professional softball team this summer.

“It’s crazy,” she said. “I’m going to be gone (from my house) for 12 weeks. I haven’t been there yet, so I don’t know what to expect, but I feel like, going into this level, there’s not going to be much teaching.

“If you find some areas where they’re struggling, you just try to help them through it. It’s going to be more encouragement than anything.”

Written by
Tim Gayle

The Cruisers located in Stuart, Florida are an under 11 travel softball team who were visited by the USSSA Pride Ashley Charters. Two of the girls on the team were guest bat girls at last years USSSA Pride’s Vero Beach doubleheader. They still to this day speak of how welcoming and genuinely friendly all the Pride players were during the game. At the end of practice the Cruisers had the opportunity to ask Charters about playing softball in the NPF and what its like to be a professional softball player. Despite the Cruisers youth there was no shortage of inquisitive questions or attention to hear every answer given by Charters. Before the team convened their practice the girls wanted to play some sort of a game and were on board when Charters came up with one of her own to teach the team. At this age its definitely important to have fun and keep things simple at such a young age. There is no greater way to connect with the future of softball than at this level because in the end the joy of playing is what fuels the love for the game in the end.

Following the practice coach Marc and wife Shelley Turull invited Charters out to a dinner with some of the girls on the Cruisers and their families. The girls immediately loved the ability to hang out with someone who they’ve looked up to as a role model. The immense hospitality shown by the parents and families of this Cruisers’ travel organization couldn’t be more appreciated.

Most top athletes have had to deal with injuries at some point in their career. Whether it is a flaring twinge that requires daily maintenance, a few months off, or a season ending injury, what often separates elite athletes from average athletes is the way they deal with these unfortunate set backs.

If you’re a serious athlete and have ever had an experience with an injury, then you know that the physical hurt you feel is only one very small part of the overall pain that you have to go through in the rehab process. The psychological pain caused by your injury and the temporary loss of your sport can be far more devastating. This happens to most athletes when they start to identify themselves with their sport, it has become the integral part of who you are.

As hard at it may seem to over come both the physical and mental injury you have faced there are plenty of ways on how you can positively get through it without losing your skill.

Goal Setting

When you set goals for yourself you start heading in the direction for success. Without direction you end up relying on chance! When we first become injured it is sometimes hard to get passed it. You can find yourself thinking, “if only” or “the way it used to be” but that gets you no where besides feeling sorry for yourself. You have to think of the reality of right now and start by setting your new goals for success.

Be Positive

The rehabilitation process can be long and frustrating because getting back to full fitness becomes a waiting game. But you have to remember to control what you can control! Go into rehab every day thinking POSITIVELY! Rehab can be a great way to get that competitive edge that will be lacking while hurt. Tell yourself that you are going to kick rehabs butt that day! In other words, your attitude and outlook is absolutely everything! When positive, your attitude can speed up the healing process and lessen the emotional pain that you have to go through. However, when you’re negative you’ll slow the rehab process down to a screeching halt and make yourself miserable in the process.

Be Active in Your Recovery

Do not cut any corners! You getting better has become your homework, so work as hard as you would if you were still training for your sport.Like anything in sport, practice is important, and the more one practices this exercise the more effective it becomes.

Start to visualize yourself being healthy again. I know that sounds a little far out but research has shown that visualization can be used to aide the healing process. Get creative and visualize different things such as, your certain injury healing, playing in your first game back, an at bat you will have, or just the general feeling of happiness to be back out on the field.

Rely on Teammates

Just because you are hurt doesn’t mean you are not part of the team any more. Surround yourself with your teammates and fight the urge to isolate yourself. They will all want to be there and support you!

Be Patient

Allow yourself enough time to heal properly. If you’re over anxious to get back to the field and rush the healing process, then you may set yourself up for another, more serious injury which may cost you even more time. Take the time to recover so you can come back full and 100%.

When I played softball at the University of Florida, my freshmen year I tore my ACL. At the time it was the biggest injury that had happened to me and I wasn’t ready to give up on that season. I decided to wait for surgery and instead play with a brace. I went from being the every day catcher to the designated hitter. I did not take it well, and it really took me out of my element. Suddenly I didn’t know how to compete like I used to, I felt like a entirely different player. After I recovered I started to feel like my old self and had a successful sophomore season. At the start of my junior season, I tore my ACL again! At this point I was not going to let the injury get in my way. I embraced what my new role was going to be and was really smart not to push it. I tried hard to stay as positive as possible and that was the key factor to my success that year.

Tweet with Francesca Enea: @frangator10

The USSSA Pride’s Ashley Charters and Jenn Salling paid a visit to the 14U Central Florida Sting just outside of Azalea Park, FL . The Sting welcomed Charters and Salling to speak with them prior to their practice.  Despite the overall age of 14 for the majority of the Sting, there was no shortage of great questions asked ranging from how to stay focused throughout a game, college experiences, playing in the National Pro Fastpitch, and importance of enjoying the game of softball.  In some ways the Central Florida Sting represent why softball is played in the first place, for the love of the game and the experiences shared with teammates.  This may not be the last time Charters and Salling get to see the Sting before summer ends since they hope to make a trip to the USSSA’s Elite World Series championship held at the ESPN’s Wide World of Sports every summer.  The Sting hopes to see some of the USSSA Pride’s home series games that are often played during that particular tournament.  Overall, the Central Florida Sting gained a great deal of knowledge from the two Pride teammates and came away with some solidified aspirations of hoping to play some day in the National Pro Fastpitch.

LAFAYETTE, La. — Pitcher Jordan Wallace broke an NCAA record for a freshman with her 21st consecutive win to begin her career, and Christi Orgeron tied the single-season grand slam record with her sixth of the season as the seventh-ranked Cajuns swept a twinbill against Florida Atlantic 21-0 and 10-2 on Saturday afternoon at Lamson Park.

Wallace (21-0) kept her unblemished record by hurling her second one-hitter of the season, fanning seven and allowing two runs. She broke the record of 20 wins, previously held by Amanda Scarbrough of Texas A&M in 2005.

“Just a little extra recognition. It is nothing that I was striving for or thinking about. We just did what we usually do and came out and got a couple of wins,” Wallace said.

Orgeron launched her NCAA-tying grand slam in a eight-run third inning for the Cajuns, giving her nine slams in her career. She finished the doubleheader 3-for-5, with two homers, four runs scored and eight RBIs. On the season, the senior has 17 long balls and leads the nation with 81 RBIs. Orgeron recorded the third highest RBI total in a season in NCAA history — with 101 — in 2011 and sits sixth all-time with 275 — 18 behind fifth place.

The Ragin’ Cajuns (40-2, 15-2) received other offensive help from Nerissa Myers who launched her third grand slam of the year, on the way to a 4-for-7 performance with five runs scored and 10 RBIs on the day.

Myers blast came in a season-high 13-run second inning in game one and is Louisiana’s 10th grand slam as a team this season.

Natalie Fernandez went 3-for-4 in the twinbill and tied a career-high with three runs in game one to go along with three RBIs. Katie Smith recorded two hits in both games, giving her a team-high 20 multi-hit games on the year. Sarah Draheim hit a three-run blast in game two and Brianna Cherry had a solo-shot as well to round out the Cajuns top offensive performers.

“Obviously it’s been tough last two to three weeks trying to find consistency in our lineup,” co-head coach Michael Lotief said. “We knew our offense was going to get going again. We got a couple breaks on errors by the defense and built momentum on it.”

When asked about Wallace’s record Lotief said, “It’s hard enough to play this game pitch-by-pitch. She is so young but her thinking is that of a warrior.”

Ashley Brignac (16-2) was credited with the game-one victory, throwing three scoreless innings, allowing one hit and striking out four FAU (13-31, 3-12) hitters. The senior is now just four strikeouts shy of 800 in her career and sits fourth all-time in school history, trailing Kim Esinaugle (1983-86) by 16.

UL broke the game open by piling on 13 runs in the second inning and eight more in the third as the Cajuns tied a season-high with 21 runs scored. Louisiana tallied 14 hits in the game and Shelbee Rodgers came in for two scoreless innings of relief for Brignac, whiffing four, to secure the win for the Ragin’ Cajuns.

Game two was knotted at zero through the first two and a half innings before UL posted five runs in the bottom of the third as Draheim and Cherry hit back-to-back shots to left field.

The Owls answered with two in the fourth as Jordan Stovall hit her third homer of the season, scoring Taylor Fawbush, who was aboard after drawing a walk to lead off the inning.

UL scored four more runs in the bottom of the frame as Myers drove in a pair with a double to the left-center gap and Orgeron plated her with her second blast of the day for a 9-2 advantage.

Myers drove in the game-winning run in the bottom of the fifth, with a single up the middle that scored Erikka Murphy

The USSSA Pride was well represented by Ashley Charters, Francesca Enea, and Jenn Salling on their visit to Seminole State College of Florida Softball team. Seminole State College is known as the Raiders and are lead by head coach Courtney Miller and assisted by Jack Bitzer, Katie Field, and Bill Fields. The Raiders had one more practice day before they left for their championship tournament in Pensacola, Florida. Coach Miller allowed the girls to jump into their full team scrimmage and really allowed the Pride girls to feel welcomed. This opportunity allowed many of the Raiders to see professionals in game like situations and give the Pride girls some real live practice time. After practice the Raiders were able to talk to each of the Pride girls regarding their college experience, playing in the National Pro Fastpitch, and how to push through softball adversities with mental toughness to succeeded. The Raiders also showed some of their team pride by performing one of their cheers that represents their softball program. The visit proved to be a positive one for the USSSA Pride by spreading the knowledge of the National Pro Fastpitch and touching base with their fans.

Via gatorzone.com:

Vs. Florida International University, April 20 and 21

Game 1, 4/20: Florida 7, FIU 4

Game 2, 4/20: Florida 9, FIU 0

Game 3, 4/21: Florida 7, FIU 1

Moultrie, 4/20-21: (AB-10;R-4;H-2;RBI-1;BB-2;SO-0;PO-1;A-0;LOB-5)

Game 1:

“Florida pushed across three runs on two hits in the bottom of the second inning in the first game of the doubleheader to give the Orange and Blue an early 3-0 edge, thanks to a RBI single from senior Michelle Moultrie (Jacksonville, Fla.), while S. Fagan followed with a two-RBI triple after two FIU outfielder’s battled the sun on a sky high ball to right-center.”

Game 2:

“UF first capitalized on a FIU defensive miscue in the initial stanza after S. Fagan laid down a bunt single that allowed Moultrie, who led off with a walk, to scamper home from first after an errant throw for the early 1-0 Gator lead.”

Game 3:

“A sophomore Kasey Fagan (Dunnellon, Fla.) groundout allowed Medina to scamper to second for two runners in scoring position, while also turning over the UF lineup, but a hack from Moultrie found the right fielder’s glove for the third out before UF could push a run across.

“…Florida added its third run on a Mariah Dawson wild pitch, allowing Medina to cross home as Moultrie walked.”

Via gohuskies.com:

Vs. Oregon State, April 20, 21, and 22

Game 1, 4/20: Washington 3, Oregon State 4

Game 2, 4/21: Washington 7, Oregon State 6

Game 3, 4/22: Washington 2, Oregon State 3

Williams, 4/20-22: AB-10;R-3;H-6;RBI-3;BB-2;SO-1;PO-3;A-0;LOB-1

Game 1:

“Junior Shawna Wright (Lancaster, Calif.) hit a sacrifice fly in the second as senior Nikia Williams (Mission Viejo, Calif.) scored after leading off the inning with a single.”

Game 2:

“Williams Lifts Huskies With Two Home Runs

“A solo home run by senior Nikia Williams in the top of the ninth with two outs gave UW a 7-6 victory over Oregon State in Corvallis, Ore., Saturday afternoon.

‘”Our team is a big puzzle and we were able to put the pieces where they belong today,” said Williams. “We competed faster and longer and that’s what allowed us to finish.”’

“…Williams (Mission Viejo, Calif.) hit her first of two home runs on the day in the third. In the sixth, UW tied the game as Faglay hit a two-run home run.”

Game 3:

“Senior Nikia Williams (Mission Viejo, Calif.) led UW with two hits in the game and the lone Husky RBI.

“Pohlman scored on a single by Williams.”

Via calbears.com:

Vs. Santa Clara, April 18

Cal 10, Santa Clara 2

Arioto, 4/18 Hitting: AB-3;R-2;H-2;RBI-2;BB-0;SO-1;PO-0;A-0;LOB-0

Pitching: W,18-1;IP-5.0;H-3;R-2;ER-2;BB-2;SO-13;WP-0;BK-0;HBP-1;IBB-0;AB-17;BF-21;FO-0;GO-2;NP-93

“Valerie Arioto led Cal to victory on both sides of the ball – striking out a season-high 13 batters and driving in two runs off two hits.”

Vs. Oregon, April 20, 21, and 22

Game 1, 4/20: Cal 8, Oregon 1

Game 2, 4/21: Cal 0, Oregon 1

Game 3, 4/22: Cal 10, Oregon 0

Arioto, 4/20-22: Hitting: AB-6;R-2;H-2;RBI-1;BB-5;SO-2;PO-14;A-4;LOB-2

Pitching: L,18-2;IP-6.0;H-5;R-1;ER-1;BB-1;SO-2;WP-1;BK-0;HBP-0;IBB-0;AB-21;BF-23;FO-4;GO-11;NP-73

Game 2:

“On an Arioto wild pitch, Howard went to third and barely beat the tag on the throw from home. With two outs and 1-0 count, Cuico singled to right, driving in Howard from third.

“The Ducks outhit the Bears 5-4 with Jamia Reid, Valerie Arioto, Danielle Henderson and Elia Reid all producing one hit apiece.

“Arioto (18-2) took the loss after allowing the sole earned run on five hits and one walk. Moore (22-7) gave up four hits and one walk but fanned eight.”

Game 3:

“With her 20th homer of the season, Valerie Arioto breaks her own single-season record for home runs.

“… After walking Arioto, Kostreba and Cheyenne Cordes, Kovinga entered the circle, but it was to little avail for Danielle Henderson doubled to right center, plating Arioto and Kostreba.

“…Arioto homered to left, Jace Williams singled to right, bringing up Kostreba, who homered to center.”

Via georgiadogs.com:

Vs. Alabama, April 19. 20, and 21
Game 1, 4/19: Alabama 4, Georgia 7

Game 2, 4/20: Alabama 8, Georgia 3

Game 3, 4/21: Alabama 6, Georgia 4

Sandberg, 4/20-22: (AB-9;R-2;H-1;RBI-2;BB-2;SO-1;PO-27;A-0;LOB-5)

Game 1:

“Senior Kristyn Sandberg then walked and advanced bases on a wild pitch and a Bama error. Senior Ashley Razey then hit a groundout to second to allow Sandberg to put the score at 3-0.”

Game 3:

“Wilson and Swafford also added an RBI apiece while senior Kristyn Sandberg tallied two.

”…Sandberg tacked on two more runs with a homer to right center to end the game at 6-4.”