Lots of role models for young girls here — Pg. 6 Here’s why it makes sense to be an advertiser: Precisely focused audience! We’re all about and softball players in Monmouth and Ocean counties, nothing else! One-of-a-kind publication! Shore Softball Magazine is the ONLY magazine of its kind in the entire state of New Jersey!

Unique, engaging content! Features, columns, Q&As, tidbits and highlights for ALL levels ... stuff that can’t be found anywhere else! Reach softball players and their families with your product or service. Find out how by calling 609-742-0021 or visit shoresbmag.com right now! ON THE COVER

KEEPING THE GAME ALIVE Ocean fastpitch league provides home for women to play the game they love

Cover Story Starts on Pg. 22

COLUMNS

All stories written FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK — David Biggy 6 and photographs taken by David Biggy PLAYER’S PERSPECTIVE — Dana Varriello 8 unless noted. FROM THE DUGOUT — Bo Scannapieco 10

shoresbmag.com 3 FEATURES Page 18 Page 14 DEDICATED AND DETERMINED Woehr has style, plenty of big dreams 14

MAKING AN IMPACT Drake all about softball, school, service 18

ENERGY PERSONIFIED Royle’s passion for game, life are huge 26

NEXT CHAPTER, PLEASE Hard-working Ward ready for new challenges 30

TALENTED, HILARIOUS, A LITTLE OFF THE WALL Is Manhattan really ready for Chrissy Mae? 34 CLEARING THE BASES Q&A with NAOMI STAS 9 Q&A with EMILY BAUSHER 12

AROUND THE HORN

Page 26 COLLEGE 44 VARSITY 45 MIDDLE SCHOOL 49 TRAVEL BALL 49 YOUTH/REC 51

4 Aug./Sept. 2015

FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK David Biggy [email protected]

Parents take note … We have Aug./Sept. 2015 Volume 1, Number 3

role models galore right here Publisher & Editor — David Biggy

uring the past few months, a bunch of people have asked me this question: “Is your magazine only about CONTRIBUTIONS softball?” Shore Softball Magazine relies, in part, Of course, if you’ve read at least one issue of Shore on editorial content provided D by non-staff contributors. Softball Magazine, you already know the answer. But it’s still kind

of interesting to hear the reactions to those not in the know when This issue’s contributors are: I smile and simply answer, “Yes. It’s only about softball.” To many, this answer is somewhat surprising. A magazine COLUMNISTS dedicated only to softball probably seems a bit bizarre. After all, Bo Scannapieco in our culture, generally speaking, football is king, followed in Dana Varriello some order by baseball, basketball and ice hockey, depending on the location. Potential contributors interested in A softball magazine? Why? submitting editorial content to Well, look through this issue and you’ll clearly see the answer. Shore Softball Magazine, please Five Division-I-caliber players are featured. Dozens of adult contact David Biggy at women playing in a local adult league is the cover feature. We [email protected].

have Q&As with a graduated Division-I player with an incredible academic record and an incoming freshman to a Division-II pro- ADVERTISING gram. Never mind the dozens of other players mentioned some- To advertise, call 609-742-0021, where among the pages here. or visit shoresbmag.com. In short, there’s a lot of softball to highlight around here. The publisher reserves the right to When I chose to start this magazine last year, I committed my- accept or reject any advertising self to telling the stories of great young ladies who, no doubt, are material. Shore Softball Magazine is great young ladies for many reasons, but they’re softball players. I not responsible for claims or wanted to be sure to give girls something positive to read about performance related to the products their peers. I wanted to make sure people knew about the great and services of our advertisers. Please things softball players around here are doing, on and off the field. direct questions to the advertiser. Yes, softball is all that matters here. And why not? Somebody has to burn that path. Somebody has to take a shot at changing the cultural view, locally and regionally, of softball and the many EDITORIAL girls and women who play the game. Shore Softball Magazine is And, truth be told, don’t the young girls among us need role published bimonthly and made models? We have five great ones right here for them to read about available free of charge online at and admire. We had a bunch more in the two previous issues. But shoresbmag.com. who’s telling their stories, thrusting them into the spotlight for all Copyright © 2015 — Shore Softball to see? The answer: only Shore Softball Magazine. Magazine. If any parents to young girls are reading this right now, my

message to you is simple. Read about the young women featured REPRINTS in this issue and tell your daughter to model herself after any of Reprint permission is available them and watch what happens. By request. Contact us a She won’t go wrong by doing so, and you’ll sleep easier know- [email protected] ing your girl is heading in a positive direction in life. for exact details and conditions.

6 Aug./Sept. 2015 What’s in a Number, Anyway? Within the realm of softball, numbers play a big part in telling the story. The score. The stats. The fans in the stands. But some of the best softball stories center around the numbers players wear on the uniforms. In our Clearing the Bases Q&As, the question of uniform number and why it was selected often arises, and the responses are always interesting. In fact, some of them get me thinking back to when I was growing up, following in the footsteps of my father and playing baseball, hoping someday I’d be good enough to play in the big leagues. For me, 13 was the number. Apparently, it is for Miss Alex Corrigan. Must be a middle infielder thing.

shoresbmag.com 7 His Light

PLAYER’S PERSPECTIVE Dana Varriello You have a Offseason strength and voice with … conditioning can do wonders

s an athlete growing up, working out was always a part of my daily routine. But it wasn’t until my freshman year of high school when I started to get serious about it. A I play travel softball for the New Jersey Intensity 18U Gold, and I also play for Jackson Memorial High School. In order to play my best for both squads, especially at such a high level in the Share a story or summer when I’m traveling across the country and going up against offer insights, great competition all the time, I need to stay in top-notch condition. I push myself out of season to really focus on my strength and use or tell about a the offseason, instead of taking a break, as a time to get better. Dur- ing my search for a permanent place in which to build my strength learning moment and conditioning level, I found Reach Your Potential Training on the field. (RYPT) in Tinton Falls. At RYPT, I have been pushed to my limits to improve my strength and movement on and off the field. The trainers there focus on ath- Player’s Perspective letes from all sports and continually push them to be better. We do Olympic lifting, running and an assortment of different drills de- is the perfect spot! signed to improve not just strength, but agility and quickness, overall speed and stamina. The trainers at RYPT are excellent at educating student-athletes If interested in on the importance of keeping our bodies in shape. They give a lot of contributing to this great tips for staying healthy, eating right and making the most of every movement we make. guest column, Not only did I get faster and stronger, but being amongst so many send an email to other student-athletes provided me with an additional family when I was away from my teams. Having a support system is very important, biggy@shoresbmag. and it has helped me a lot in developing my enjoyment for working out, eating healthy and making myself a better athlete. Whether you go to a place like RYPT or someplace similar, it’s really important to keep your body in shape when you’re in the offea- So, what do you think of son. Stay fit, eat right and build your stamina, because when the sea- Shore Softball Magazine? son arrives you will be much better off and less likely to get injured.

And if you’re planning to play in college, get on a structured strength and conditioning program now because you will be ahead of the game Email your letters to once you arrive to campus. editor David Biggy at As I approach my final high school season and begin a new journey biggy@shoresbmag! toward playing Division-I softball, I can’t stress enough how much

pushing myself in the offseason has helped me. It can do wonders for you and your game as well. Please include your full name and town, or your Dana Varriello is a Jackson Memorial High School senior who letter will not be published. played first base for the Jaguars this past spring.

8 Aug./Sept. 2015 CLEARING THE BASES

NAME: Naomi Stas AGE: 18 HOMETOWN: Tuckerton PLAYS FOR: RKE Jaxx Premier, incoming freshman at Philadelphia University

Q. Let’s start with something easy. Chicken or the Egg ... What’s your favorite thing on the menu?

A. New England clam chowder in a bread bowl .

Q. So, which are your top-three favorite Red Hot Chili Peppers songs?

A. The Zephyr Song, Dani California, Under The Bridge.

Q. You’re headed to Philadelphia Uni- versity. Are you excited to play at the Division-II level and what are you ex- pecting it to be like for your freshman season as a Ram?

A. I am very excited to play at the Division-II level, and I’m not exactly sure what to expect for my freshman year.

Q. My understanding is you’re going to be teammates with Stephanie Pepper in Philadelphia. How cool is that and what are you looking forward to most with Stephanie as a college teammate?

A. To continue being teammates (from travel ball) with Steph is pretty cool. One thing that I look forward to with her being a college team- mate is her personality.

Q. OK, let’s look back at your high school career a bit. What are you going to remem- team being back-to-back champions in the Ocean County ber most about being a Wildcat? ; being able to hold school records in softball for most strikeouts and hits (tied with Steph Healy). A. The thing I will remember most about being a Wildcat is that our school is and will probably always be one of the Q. Any particular teacher from Pinelands you most spirited schools out there. wish you could bring with you to college? Who and why? Q. What would you say were the top-three high- lights of your Pinelands career? A. I wish I could bring Mr. Roessner to college because he is one awesome person and has helped me through a lot. A. My top-three highlights are that my first home run was hit in my sophomore year and it was a grand slam; my (Continued on Page 11)

shoresbmag.com 9 FROM THE DUGOUT Bo Scannapieco

Playing at community college has many benefits here are many benefits to starting an intercollegiate athletics career at a community college. Student-athletes who choose this path may not see the wisdom of their choice right away T and think they will feel a sense of disillusionment and letdown. But nothing can be farther from the truth. Regardless of the stigmas and innuendo, choosing a community college is a wonderful option. Over the course of 35-plus years of coaching softball at Brookdale Community College, many of my former student-athletes have come back and told me that the decision they made to choose Brookdale was the right option for them. Why? Many of the reasons can be summed up in the following points: ● It’s cost effective. ● It provides a second opportunity at being accepted to a Got an instruction top-ranked college. ● It assists in career decisions. tip on how to throw Attending a community college will cost about $3,500 per year, a better changeup? rather than the average $35,000 per year to attend a private, four-year

institution. Once a former student-athlete has a career and is starting a family, without a burdensome education-loan payment, she will be Got advice on how thankful for her decision to attend a community college. The decision to be better saved her a lot of money while giving her a second shot at acceptance to a top-notch, four-year college of her choice. prepared for the I have been around numerous student-athletes who either regretted recruiting process? their initial collegiate choice or found out that their top college was un- attainable out of high school. The community college route affords those students a second chance of acceptance. Shore Softball After playing softball for two years and graduating, many of my for- mer players seamlessly transferred to the college of their choice while Magazine wants being offered additional academic and athletic aid which was not avail- you to share it able right out of high school. Additionally, many high school seniors are unsure about a career here in our path. It is more feasible to test out career majors at $120 per credit than “From the Dugout” waste time and money on a major a student is unsure about. Parents should also guide and assist their young adults in this deci- guest column! sion-making process. From understanding the cumbersome financial burden that large student loans carry to developing the time manage- ment and self-discipline skills necessary to successfully balance school Contact Editor and athletics, open communication between the parent and student- David Biggy at athlete is crucial to intercollegiate success. [email protected] Bo Scannapieco is head coach at Brookdale Community College, where for more info! he has guided three teams to NJCAA national championships.

10 Aug./Sept. 2015 (Continued from Page 9) ready on your way to college?

Q. So, what’s going to be your major at Philadel- A. My summer travel season is going very well, and I am phia University and do you have any career goals enjoying it in general. at this point? Q. So, what do you like about the Jaxx? Why has it A. My major is undeclared at this point, so my goal is to been beneficial for you to be with them the past first find out what I would like to major in. few years?

Q. What was it about Philadelphia University that A. The JAXX is one amazing organization. The coaches, sold you on attending the school? the players and the parents are what make it enjoyable. Everything is pretty laid back. It has been beneficial to me A. I liked the area. It was pretty. There’s always something because they helped me get recruited and through that to do and the people there are all so nice. process. I’ve also made lots of new friends through playing in the program. Q. Do you already have a few favorite things to do in Philadelphia, or do you still have a lot to dis- Q. All right, wrap-up question ... Given the oppor- cover in the City of Brotherly Love? tunity, is there anything you would have changed about your four years at Pinelands? What would it A. I still have a lot to discover. be and why?

Q. How’s the summer travel season going? Are A. I don’t think there is anything that I would change from you enjoying it a bit more knowing that you’re al- Pinelands. We did what we needed to do.

shoresbmag.com 11 CLEARING THE BASES

NAME: Emily Bausher AGE: 22 HOMETOWN: New Egypt PLAYED FOR: Lehigh University (2015), New Egypt High School

Q. All right, Emily ... You graduated Lehigh in May. So what are you doing with yourself now? Where are you working and what do you do?

A. I did graduate in May! So exciting, but I miss my team- mates and best friends every day. I am working for an en- vironmental consulting company that does a lot of work on the military base (Joint Base MDL). I have worked there for the past three summers as well. I will be attend- ing West Virginia University to get my Master’s degree in Geology in the fall.

Q. Lehigh is a great school. What did you enjoy most about your entire college experience there?

A. What I enjoyed most about Lehigh is the people I have Lehigh University Athletics photo met. Each and every one of my teammates will be close to my heart forever. I enjoyed the success and the defeats we experienced together, for they were all learning experi- are your current career goals? ences. I wouldn’t have wanted to share those experiences with anyone else. Winning the tournament A. I majored in earth and environmental science with a this past season, after not winning it since my freshman minor in psychology for my undergrad at Lehigh. I will be year, further supports my inability to forget the family we getting my Master’s in the fall, as previously men- created in the Lehigh softball program. They will always tioned. My career goal is to work as a hydrogeologist in be family to me. the groundwater field, concentrating on contamination issues. Q. Talk about life as a Division-I softball player. What was it like? What did you learn about your- Q. You’re long done with high school and now out self? of college. I’m sure it seems as if it zipped right by. Are you prepared for the next stage of life? A. Life as a Division-I softball player was difficult, espe- cially at such an academically demanding school, but any- A. I am pretty well prepared for the next stage in my life. I thing worthwhile is going to be difficult. From doing will be continuing school, which being a student-athlete at homework on the way to a game, to moving tests around Lehigh prepared me very well for. with professors so I would be able to travel, there were many obstacles I had to overcome to be a successful stu- Q. You earned some really big academic honors dent-athlete. However, there were many resources at Le- while at Lehigh. Which one do you cherish the high I was able to utilize. As a student athlete, I had access most and why? to free tutors for most of my classes. Not only were there peer tutors available, but many of my teammates were ei- A. I am very proud of the academic honors I received at ther in the same classes as me, or had taken the classes Lehigh. Although all of them are very important to me, the before. Going to my teammates helped a lot! I definitely academic honors also involved my athletic achievements learned a lot from my experience as a D-I athlete. I are the awards I hold closest to my heart. It is not because learned impeccable time management skills, conflict reso- these are actually two awards in one, but because they lution, and, most importantly, how to establish and main- truly encompass how taxing and demanding being a stu- tain good relationships with people! dent-athlete at Lehigh is. Graduating with academic

Q. So, what kind of degree did you get and what (Continued on next page)

12 Aug./Sept. 2015 played with (on the same team) many of the girls I have played against in my four years at Lehigh. It was amazing to befriend them and join together in our love for the sport.

Q. All right ... I’d be shocked if you didn’t have some relatively unknown talent. What is it?

A. I do! I can sing the opening song from the Lion King and have reenacted the scene many times for my teammates. It was always a hit!

Q. You just got a new apartment. Where is it, how many rooms do you have and what scents are your candles?

A. I have an apartment in West Virginia — a four- bedroom, two-bath place and will be living with three other women. I have MANY candles and an unnatural obsession with Yankee Candle! I will have multiple candles in every room but my top scents are Pink Sands, Sun & Sand, Clean Cotton, Cran- berry Chutney and Balsam & Cedar. My dream is to Lehigh University Athletics photo open a Dutch candle carving company one day!

Q. Give me a couple of the big highlights dur- (Continued from previous page) ing your career at Lehigh. Which were the bright- est moments for you? honors as a student-athlete, I feel very accomplished. A. The brightest moment for me was winning the Patriot Q. Let’s get some Emily Bausher wisdom going League Championships, specifically this past season, and here. Why is it so important for young softball winning my first game in the NCAA regional tourna- players to understand that academics is where ment. Winning at our brand new stadium in front of everything hinges? MANY fans and family members was a feeling that can never be matched. A. I am a firm believer that the term should be taken as it is “student-athlete.” The student aspect comes first! I can’t Q. So, anymore softball on the horizon for you? tell you how valuable an education is. It prepares you so well for the real world. Academics is especially important A. Unfortunately, my softball career has ended with the in the sport of softball, because there are not many paths game against Team USA. It was not a bad way to go out! I to take professionally within the sport. Academics, believe hope to join a league in the near future, for fun, and I it or not, also help with the mentally taxing sport of soft- hope to return someday to coach. ball itself. The ability to stay focused in games for long pe- riods of time carries over to being able to focus on tests, Q. Throughout your high school and college ca- for example, and vice versa. It’s all so closely related. reer, you got to live a dream many young girls only get to dream of. What’s your advice to young Q. So, what recently happened in Hamilton? You girls who aspire to be successful on the field and were on the field with Team USA? What was all in life? that about? A. I have been extremely lucky in my life thus far. Softball A. I did get to play with a college all-star team against has given me my most cherished memories and has Team USA early in July! It was the MOST amazing ex- brought me together with people across the country and perience any girl could ask for. It was such an honor to even across the world! My advice is to never, ever, be play on the same field as the girls on the team. I grew up afraid. If you always put your best effort forward, you idolizing the women playing for our country and stepping can’t ask anymore from yourself. Believe, believe, believe! on the field with them in the other dugout was as close to It will get you a lot farther than you ever imagined was getting to play for the team itself as I will ever get. I also possible!

shoresbmag.com 13 She’s Got a Plan

Veronica Woehr spends a lot of time working on her game, and plays with one of the better travel programs in the state — the New Jersey Cheetahs.

14 Aug./Sept. 2015 Woehr has style, plenty of big dreams

f Veronica Woehr were to show up to the softball seeks to improve even the slightest aspects of her game. field in a boisterous black dress and heels, made up “When I was younger, I played travel soccer, basket- to fit the look of a covergirl for Vogue, most there ball and softball,” she said. “But I quit soccer and basket- I just might wonder what the heck she was doing. ball to concentrate on softball my sophomore year. I just But she’d totally rock it. wanted to play softball 24/7.” “I used to model and was really into that for awhile,” Veronica started playing in Little League and ended she said. “I used to do shows from eighth grade into my up on the Ocean Sharks travel team, but two years ago an freshman year. I would run from softball, go to a photo unfortunate medical condition which caused head coach shoot, and then go back to practice with makeup on and Anthony Errico to give up coaching led to a new path all that, and everybody would be like, ‘Uh, what were you with a new team — the New Jersey Cheetahs. doing?’ “Going to the Cheetahs was the best move I made,” “I’m a softball player, down in the dirt half the time. she said. “In just one year with them, I got so much bet- And the other half of the time, I’m worried about what ter as a player it was insane. But it was a lot of hard I’m wearing. I don’t come off as a girly girl, but I have work. I would get home from school, do homework for two sides.” an hour, leave the house and not come back until 10:30 Ah, yes … A softball player with style. But Veronica p.m., then go to bed and repeat that routine the next day. also has a load of talent and smarts to go along with her “But I don’t mind doing it, because I know it’s prepar- dedication to the sport and determination to succeed. ing me for the future.” Around the Shore Conference, the Ocean Township And the future is bright for Veronica, as she gears up standout is largely considered a threat at the plate every for a Division-I career somewhere in the tri-state area. time she steps into the batter’s box, but she’s also one of “I’ve put in all this work, so I definitely want to play the best fielding first basemen in the area, runs the bases Division I,” she said. “And I believe I can do it.” well and rarely makes a mental mistake. Still, Veronica’s dedication and determination doesn’t And there’s a reason for her prowess on the field — she busts her butt to play at a high level and constantly (Continued on next page)

shoresbmag.com 15 Yes, Veronica Woehr is an excellent softball player, but she also wants to get into fashion merchandising once she’s out of college.

(Continued from previous page) where I’d be without it, but I also sary,” she added, laughing. “But I’m want to do fashion. So, I have a plan going for the best.” end on the softball field. She’s also a to do both.” And that’s to be expected with Ve- good student and is looking forward Interestingly, Veronica’s interest ronica, a leader on the field who ex- to a career in fashion merchandising. in fashion almost seemed to happen pects a lot of herself. “Basically, it’s the business side of by accident. “On the field, I’m serious,” she fashion,” she said, her face lighting “It came from me watching MTV said. “Softball has always been some- up while she discussed her other pas- and reading my mom’s old maga- thing in which I wanted to excel, and sion. “I want to be a buyer for a big zines,” she said with a laugh. “I used I want to be that person everybody department store, going to shows to watch The Hills on MTV, and it can rely on, to get that big hit when and buying products for them.” basically was about fashion merchan- it’s needed or start up the inning that And the impressive part isn’t so dising and styling and stuff like that. makes the difference in the game. much that Veronica knows what she So, I really got hooked on fashion by “But it’s important to stay level- wants to do. She also knows how she watching MTV. headed — never be too high with the wants to build her career beyond the “But even before that, my older ups or too down with the lows. I try basics coming out of college. sister, who had no fashion sense at very hard not to get mentally down She even has a business plan all when she was 17 and I was 10, on myself or others. As a leader, I’m through which she expects to merge would come to me and ask if she always upbeat and want to lift every- her two passions. should wear a certain thing. It just body up.” “My dad is going to buy me a seemed to be my thing.” Veronica is looking forward to her warehouse — and I’ll pay him back, And which is Veronica’s dream senior season at Ocean Township. of course,” she explained. “But I’m store? “I freaked out when I realized I going to start up a training facility for “Definitely Bloomingdales in New was coming up on my senior year,” softball instruction and I’ll give les- York,” she said. “It’s a luxurious de- she said with a laugh. “But even sons at night. And during the day, I’ll partment store and just so cool. So, though I was the captain this spring, operate out of the building to do that’s my top choice for when I get TomI’m lookingErbig loves forward to teach, to being and a senior whatever I’m doing with fashion into merchandising. If I had to make heleader challenges because his I think players it’s differentto merchandising. a second choice, I’d say Nordstrom.” playbeing their a leader best asevery a senior. time What I’m “I want softball included in the A third choice doesn’t really exist. theyreally go glad onto about the field.is that I’ll end my rest of my life, because I don’t know “Maybe Lord & Taylor, if neces- high school years playing softball.”

16 Aug./Sept. 2015 Need to raise money for tournament entry fees or equipment? I can help!

Melissa Biggy 609-742-6855 [email protected] www.mythirtyone.com/mbiggy Putting Smiles on Faces

Drake all about softball, school, service t would be easy to say Rebecca Drake is a very good so that they can feel like they have somebody to talk to. softball player. It also would be easy to say she’s a Some of them are at home, but others are in nursing very good student. homes. I But what may define Rebecca best is her love of “I grew up giving to others. We just do it out of the serving others in any way possible. goodness of our hearts and giving back is big to me.” “I love giving back to people,” she said. “Little things Rebecca really enjoys the Challenger kids. mean a lot. I’m always looking out for others before I’d “I love being a buddy in the Challenger league,” she look out for myself. I like seeing others happy.” said. “Seeing the smiles on their faces when they catch or For years, Rebecca has helped coach young girls as hit a ball is priceless. It might be a little thing to me, but well as helping in the local Challenger program. She also it’s such a huge thing to them, and I love to see the ex- helps her mother, Sandy, in visiting the elderly and de- citement on the kids’ faces when they do things they livering food to those in need. don’t or can’t do on a daily basis and they finally do it. “We help the elderly through our church, St. Elizabeth “Even if it’s something small, it’s great to see it.” Seton,” she said. “We go visit those without families or can’t get out much, and sometimes we’ll bring our dog, (Continued on next page)

18 Aug./Sept. 2015 (Continued from previous page) “I’ve been skating since I was 2 or 3 and my twin brother, Matt, plays as well,” she said. “I started playing With that kind of compassion and desire to see others when I was about 10, and I loved it. I was a defender. succeed, it’s no wonder young girls look up to Rebecca. And what was always interesting to me was how the guys “A little girl came up to me one day and asked for an would purposely come after me just to see how tough I autograph,” she said. “I turned to my dad and asked him, was.” ‘What do I say?’ And he said to just sign my name on the Needless to say — she played four years of varsity ball and write a little something. hockey, for goodness sake — Rebecca is one tough young “It was a little embarrassing, but I signed my name lady. and wrote, ‘Dream big. Good luck in the future. Can’t “I’ve laid guys out on the ice. I’ve put guys in the hos- wait to see what kind of player you become.’ She was a pital,” she said, laughing. “I’m the tough girl.” cute little girl, about 9, and that put the biggest smile on Of course, given her strength, athleticism and brains, her face.” Rebecca was a prime candidate for some sort of athletic Not surprising, Rebecca had been taught to always be career at the college level. Adding her service record to it aware of her surroundings and who might be watching pushed her to the top of Quinnipiac University’s list of her every move. prized student-athletes. “My parents always tell me that you never know who’s She was given a big scholarship to attend the Con- watching and the impact you can make on somebody’s necticut college this fall. life,” she said. “You can always do something to help “I’m going to Quinnipiac to study criminal justice,” somebody, and I love those moments. I don’t want to be she said. “I want to follow in my mom’s footsteps and be the center of attention, but I realize I’m a role model and a police officer. And fortunately, I’ll get to be a Division-I I have to accept it that little girls look up to me.” softball player too.” And with good reason. Rebecca was a standout three- But what about hockey? Quinnipiac has a solid sport athlete at Donovan Catholic, playing four varsity women’s ice hockey program. seasons of soccer, ice hockey and softball. That’s right … ice hockey. (Continued on next page)

Rebecca Drake can handle a hockey stick just as well as a softball bat. She excelled in both sports during her four years at Donovan Catholic.

shoresbmag.com 19 Rebecca Drake will play softball and major in criminal justice at Quinnipiac University. She wants to be a police officer.

(Continued from page 19) dorms are right next to the field. So, I’ll pretty much live right at the field where I’ll be playing for four years.” “I could have played both,” she said with a smile. “My And what’s more, she’s totally ready for the next chap- softball coach wasn’t opposed to it, let’s put it that way. ter of her life and softball at the next level. In fact, Re- She just said, ‘Don’t get hurt.’ And I would do it, except I becca is very conscientious about what she does and how don’t think I can handle playing both sports from a time- she does it, knowing the ramifications can be costly. management standpoint. That would be really hard.” “I want to take responsibility for the choices I make, What wasn’t hard was Rebecca’s decision to be a part and I do my best to make good choices,” she said. “And, of the Bobcats family. why not? I have too much to lose. There’s almost 200- “I didn’t want to go too far from home. I wanted really grand on a piece of paper that can be ripped up in a good academics. And I wanted to play good softball. My heartbeat. If I screw up now, all the hard work I’ve put in first time there was incredible,” she said. “It’s a loving, for so many years goes down the drain.” family-like community with level-minded people, and I Beyond college, Rebecca looks forward to the day she really like Coach Jill (Karwoski).” can serve the community as a police officer. The kicker that solidified Rebecca’s choice? “I want to make an impact,” she said. “I’m only one “I saw the hockey rink, the softball field, and the voice, but one voice can make a difference to somebody.”

20 Aug./Sept. 2015 Absolutely! We want you to advertise and provide content to us! But you have to get your stuff in on time!

Shore Softball Magazine deadlines are:

Issue Advertising Editorial/Content Months Deadline Deadline

Oct./Nov. Sept. 20 Sept. 15

Dec./Jan. Nov. 20 Nov. 15

Feb./March Jan. 20 Jan. 15

April/May March 20 March 15 COVER STORY

Keri Hardiman is just one of 64 adult women playing in the first-year Ocean Women’s Fastpitch League. The league has four teams and looking to build during the coming years.

22 Aug./Sept. 2015 Ocean fastpitch league provides home for women to play the game they love

ack in February, Hayley Jorgensen had a deci- to create it and only knew, for sure, of two teams that sion to make. And it wasn’t an easy one. wanted to be in it at the outset. But as the spring got She had been the Ocean County representa- closer, I realized how much I love playing the game. So I B tive of the New Jersey Women’s Fastpitch took on the task of creating this league, to fulfill all their League (NJWFL) for several years, but a dispute led to desires to keep playing .” the disassembling of the Ocean County portion of the The league began its schedule in April with four teams league. — Switch Hitters, TLC Signs & Banners, Quit Your Many of the women who had played in the Ocean Pitchin’ and Fortified Roofing. Each team played 12 County division expressed interest in playing again, but games, ending in late July, with playoffs scheduled for they wanted to remain closer to their locations rather August. All games were played on Sundays, and the than travel to Bloomfield where the NJWFL is based. league drew 64 women of various ages from many loca- “So many people were begging me to restart the Ocean tions, including Staten Island. County league,” said Jorgensen, who ultimately opted to Samantha Hosey, a 22-year-old former Keansburg redevelop the league under its new name, Ocean High School player, was excited by the possibility of Women’s Fastpitch. playing fastpitch again. “All the girls wanted to play this year and not take a “I didn’t know it existed until a friend of mine, Annie year off. I knew it was going to be a lot of work to get a new league started, and I really wasn’t familiar with how (Continued on next page)

shoresbmag.com 23 (Continued from previous page)

Lombardi, told me about it a couple of weeks before the season started,” she said. “It’s refreshing to know there’s a place we can come to play the game we love. We’re all here for the same reason, because it’s fast- pitch and we love playing the sport.” Katelyn Pepper, who never in her 24 years has been far from the game, played in the JSWFL with Fortified Roofing and made the transition to the Ocean Women’s Fastpitch league with the bulk of that team. “There are so many options for adult women to play sports, from slowpitch softball to and soc- cer,” she explained. “But for those who can’t forget about fastpitch, who really love the game, this is an awesome option. It’s easy to sign up with a slowpitch league around here, and it’s fun and all. But it’s not fastpitch.” And even though many of the women playing in the league are well past their glory days from high school and college, battling the aches and pains of aging after many years of playing the sport when they were younger, the games are somewhat competitive. It’s fastpitch, after all. The pitching is solid. Some of the women hit bombs. Many of them are still excellent fielders and can run quite fast. A couple of them are currently playing in college.

(Continued on next page)

SWITCH FORTIFIED QUIT YOUR TLC SIGNS HITTERS ROOFING PITCHIN’ & BANNERS

Courtney Erdl Nicole Iorio Jessica Murawski Amanda Singer Christina D’Arpa Summer Kabourakis Heather Mendez Shawna Stecz Kristi Zarr Dara DeVincenzo Renee Rooney Samantha Hosey Joey Afflito Tracy Goldych Julie Leibman Keri Hardiman Jenna Kinter Heather Scannell Roxy Keelan Cortnee Hernandez Sam Fennell Katelyn Pepper Katie Hulse Katie Lordi Maggie Gallegan Liz Russo Nicole Vasta Patricia Stecz Brittney Rodriguez Erica Mayer Alyssa Guderian Sarah Owen Hayley Jorgensen Lindsey Nadolny Kaitlyn Meissner Annie Lombardi Stefanie Allen Jeanie Letts Heather Andrews Kimberly McNelis Karen DiMicco Dianne Spatola Cristin Hector Kerri Yuelling Gianna DePalma Lisa Firth Colleen Frees Brittany Beckett Steph Texiera Tiffany Kenney Danielle Fadeski Katye MacIntyre Kristen Liberatore Mia Gentile Ilana Machado Jessica McKeon Christina Lusch C.C. Daniels Kate Schrumf Julie Braun

In its inaugural season, the Ocean Women’s Fastpitch League fielded four teams comprising of 64 players, ranging in age from 18 to 57, with each team playing a 12-game schedule on Sundays.

24 Aug./Sept. 2015 At 30, Christina D’Arpa still possesses excellent fielding ability and a solid bat, and she hopes women of all skill levels give the Ocean Women’s Fastpitch League a shot.

(Continued from previous page) Jorgensen said the league always will be in need of sponsors and looks forward to seeing the league continue “It is competitive, but we’re really just out here to to grow beyond its current four teams. have fun and continue playing the game we love,” said “We’re making women happy,” she said. “There’s no Christina D’Arpa, a 30-year-old former travel ball coach. pressure here. We’re all friends. We go up to the plate “This is a great group of women having a good time play- with a smile. These women love the game and everybody ing together. It’s great that this is an option for women, who loves the game is welcome in our league, regardless of all ages and skill levels. And we want this league to of their age or ability. grow.” “Ideally, I’d love to see us have 10 or 12 teams at some Renee Rooney, who played soccer and graduated from point. And I believe the league will get bigger, based on Brick Memorial High School in 2000, had never played what I’ve seen this season.” fastpitch softball until a few years ago. Now, as the team The league is planning a fall season, starting on Aug. manager of Quit Your Pitchin’, she’s a formidable hitter 23. All teams can have a maximum of 18 players, and and really enjoys the game. those interested can register, as either an individual or “When I first started, I was a bit overwhelmed by it,” an entire team, on the Ocean Women’s Fastpitch league she said. “But I was able to acclimate myself to the game, website. and now I’m pretty good at it. But what I really enjoy The entry fee per team is $500 to cover the cost of in- most about this league is the camaraderie of the women surance, field necessities and balls, and each team is re- in the dugout. We really have a good time.” sponsible for an umpire fee of $25 per game. Currently, the league has a bunch of sponsors, either “I wish more teams would join us,” said Katie Lordi, a for general league purposes or specific teams, including former catcher at Toms River North who now is 31 and Doyle’sFollowing Pour House her senior in Tuckerton, season Nutrishop at Rutgers, of Lacey, Jackie still gets behind the plate. “It’s a great place to relive the PBABates Local was 295 inrewarded Tuckerton, with Ares a selectionAthletics in to Mana- the All- glory days, meet good friends and stay a part of the hawkin, Fortified Roofing, Mechanical Construction, game. I’m really happy this league started up. Last year, I Big Ten second team. Ocean Township Police, TLC Signs & Banners of Toms didn’t think I was ever going to play again. But I love it, River and Pine Bay Liquors(Courtesy and Packed of Rutgers Goods Athletics) of Little so I’m here playing with all the other women who love Egg Harbor. fastpitch softball.”

shoresbmag.com 25 ‘I love eating dirt’

Meghan Royle loves the outdoors, softball and doing anything possible to get her teammates riled up for a game. She’s also a darned good player.

26 Aug./Sept. 2015 Royle’s passion for game, life are huge

t’s really not a secret — Meghan Royle is an energetic individual. And if you’ve been fortunate I enough to get a glimpse of her hanging on the dugout fence and rat- tling it, swinging from a nearby beam, or dancing a jig in the on-deck circle, you’ve only seen a small por- tion of that energy pouring from her 5-foot-1 frame. “I do bounce all over the place,” she said, laughing, which is some- thing she does a lot. “I guess I kind of channel the kangaroo. I’ve always been like that. I’ve always had a lot of energy. But a lot of times, I’m just trying to get everybody going. “Usually, I’m really quiet. But when I get on the field, I just have a lot of fun.” No kidding! Whether it be whacking a double into a gap, speeding around the bases, or hitting the dirt to cut down a grounder up the middle, it seems Meghan does it with a smile on her face the entire time. And that’s when she’s taking things seriously. “I do get frustrated at times, and sometimes I’m a little too hard on myself, but I don’t dwell on my mis- takes anymore,” she said. “When you get down to it, softball is a game. You’re supposed to have fun. You’re supposed to smile. That’s my advice to younger girls — whenever going out onto the field, just smile and have fun. Keep it positive, know you can get the job done and believe in your- self. And believe in your teammates.” During her softball career at Colts Neck, Meghan was a shining star on thing, kept things positive and love about softball. It’s a big game the field, a leader by word and deed, spread that positive energy around as made up of individual moments, and and simply a positive role model for much as I could. And anytime I could you can always learn something. any incoming freshman. make somebody smile, it was that Softball’s a game of inches and milli- As a team, the Cougars were 9-45 much better.” seconds, but even though you have during her last three seasons. And even though Meghan takes chances to build up your teammates, “I’m not going to lie, it was tough how she plays the game very seri- you can still be your own person and at times,” she said. “But I couldn’t get ously, she knows it’s just a part of life have your own style of doing things down on any of the other girls when I and helps teach bigger lessons. that benefits the team.” know they were playing their best. I “It’s in the moments you do some- Meghan certainly has that down to make mistakes all the time, so I can’t thing, which may not be quite right, a science. A former soccer goalie, she get on other girls when they make that you can learn from it and get mistakes. I played my role, did my better,” she said. “And that’s what I (Continued on page 29)

shoresbmag.com 27 (Photo by Dave Schofield)

A dynamic fielder, speedy baserunner and consistent hitter, Meghan Royle believes she has what it takes to be successful on the field at the University of Maine, where she soon will take up residence.

28 Aug./Sept. 2015 (Continued from page 27) has an affinity for the infield dirt. “I love for balls and I love eating dirt. I really do,” she said, laughing again. “I was taught to always go 110-percent, to make the diving play, do something you may think you can’t do, to always put in that effort. And I thought putting in that kind of effort meant doing every- thing possible to keep the ball in the infield. “So, if eating dirt all the time is the result, I’m good with that. I’ll just spit it out, get it out of my shirt, my pants, whatever. I like when my jersey is brown. I’m a trendsetter like that.” A self-described “eclectic sort and old soul,” Meghan definitely enjoys burning her own path. This fall, that path will bring her to the University of Maine, where she will take up environmental science and play softball for coach Mike Coutts. Mike Coutts was made head coach of the Black Bears after his wife, Lynn, the former coach since 2010, was promoted to an associate athletic director position ear- some, and I’m really looking forward to experiencing all lier this summer. kinds of new things up there.” “I was always interested in environmental sciences, However, the path which led to Maine was littered and Maine has a really great program for that,” Meghan with some detours. With her heart originally set on at- said. “I’d like to maybe get into fish and wildlife conser- tending Colgate, Meghan was told in no uncertain terms vation. My dad’s a park ranger and manager, and I grew that she wasn’t good enough to play there. And with no up going on nature walks, identifying trees and being other offers to play from her original list of colleges, she around wildlife. I love the outdoors and Maine really fits redesigned the list with the help of Intensity mentor the kind of person I am.” Kevin O’Donnell. A graduate of Biotechnology High School and an ex- “I decided I wanted to prove them wrong and that I cellent student, Meghan said academics always has come can play Division-I softball,” she said. “I took it as a mo- first in the student-athlete equation. And even though ment that I could either crumple and fall and say, ‘That’s the weather is quite different in Maine, she says it won’t it,’ or take the opportunity to go somewhere else.” be a problem adjusting to the new environment. She chose to climb the mountain again. “When I visited, it felt like home. It felt so real to me,” “It’s written in my glove … ‘Sometimes the right per- she said. “I don’t mind the weather up there. I like the son no one imagines anything of does the things that no snow. I need seasons. I love to hike, go cross country ski- one can imagine.’ Ive always been driven to be better ing or kayaking. I can’t wait to see a moose. It’s a beauti- than expectations. I love making big moments out of lit- ful area with a lot of pine and spruce trees. It’s just awe- tle things. I believe in myself, even if others don’t.”

shoresbmag.com 29 Taylor Ward is a hard worker who expects to be challenged in many ways when she heads to Dartmouth University this fall.

30 Aug./Sept. 2015 Exciting Time Ahead

Hard-working Ward ready for new challenges

artmouth University is no joke. The New about to stop now. Hampshire school has a rich tra- “I watch and pay attention to details and then do dition with many of its sports, incredible aca- something,” she said. “I’m a quick learner, and once I D demic programs and a style and persona all learn something I never forget it. In college, I’m just go- its own. ing to grow more, improve on what I do now, learn new It’s no wonder Taylor Ward wanted to go there — things and come out better.” she’s very much geared to all three aspects. Going purely from a softball perspective, Taylor “It’s a bit scary but I’m ready for the next chapter,” knows the Division-I level is going to be hard. But work- she said. “I picked Dartmouth because I know it’s going ing hard is something from which she’s never backed to be a challenge. It’s always academics first there, away. which is what I wanted. The softball program is building “Hard work is ingrained in my head,” she said. and hopefully I’ll be able to help get us to an NCAA “There’s always room for improvement to get stronger, tournament someday. It’s just going to be a different faster, smarter. But the one thing that’s going to get me experience, like nothing I’ve experienced before, and through college is I’m not OK with being complacent. I I’m looking forward to the opportunity.” can’t do something just OK. I have to do something per- Taylor seems to have an affinity for making the most fect — not in the sense that it’s just mechanical but in of opportunities. the sense that I get the job done.” At Toms River North, she was an academic whiz and From swinging a solid stick at the plate, running the a star on the field. She often took learning to a new level — in class, with life and within the game. And she’s not (Continued on next page)

shoresbmag.com 31 Taylor Ward is going full steam ahead on the softball field and in life, and she’s ready to stretch herself mentally and physically.

(Continued from previous page) own, apart from the many comforts of home and seeing all those she was accustomed to seeing every day in bases well or exhibiting amazing range at shortstop, Toms River. Taylor has the tools to make it at the Division-I level. “I’m going to miss all the people that I’ve seen every But perhaps her biggest asset heading to Dartmouth is day for the last four years,” she mused. “At some point, her passion for the game. they all had an impact on my life in some way, and there “I played at North, and volleyball is a much are so many relationships I’ve developed over the years quicker game,” she said. “But I just love softball so that I’m not going to have anymore. much more. There are so many things that can happen, “I’ll be living on my own, which is something I’ve so many situations that are always changing, and you never experienced before. I’ll be learning to depend on have to know exactly what you’re doing for all the possi- myself a lot more. And I’m going to miss my sister. She ble situations that come up. doesn’t know that yet, but it’s true.” “It’s such a mental game, and the fact that one-tenth Planning for a career in physics or math, Taylor is of a second or less than one degree of your bat angle can satisfied with the person she’s become during her high make a difference really appeals to me. There’s so much school years. It wasn’t always like that. room for error that it makes it so much sweeter when “I wish I went into high school knowing what I know you have success. I love the suspense of softball, and now about myself and other people,” she said. “I was that’s what makes it exciting.” still finding myself and switching around with friend What also makes Taylor excited to move to the upper groups when I was a sophomore. I did a lot of watching Northeast are the many opportunities to explore and instead of doing what I wanted to do, and I think I experience new things. would have enjoyed things sooner had I not done that. “I’ve never skied in my life, but I’m sure I’ll get to “But I’m totally different now. Things have a deeper give it a try when I’m up there,” said Taylor, a bit of a meaning than just black and white. And everything that beach bum who enjoys surfing. “And Hanover is such a started connecting and making sense to me during my quaint little town, with a lot of history and tradition. I’m junior year, I now get to take all that with me.” really looking forward to every chance to get out and Including the many character traits that will un- about. I’ve been all over the country, but the only region doubtedly prove invaluable when the going gets tough. I hadn’t been to is the Northeast. So, I’m just going to “I’ve learned to become a leader and face adversity,” do all I can to absorb all that’s there.” she said. “I’ve realized that I was a lot tougher and pa- Already a seafood lover with a taste for sushi, Taylor tient than I thought I was, and I’m more responsible will have to get acclimated to a slightly new lifestyle up than I thought I was, too. I’m looking forward to a in New England — namely getting used to living on her bright future.”

32 Aug./Sept. 2015 Try something more exciting! Thirty-One has a wide range of products your players can sell! Thirty-One offers a fun, fresh and different option for your team!

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Is Manhattan really ready for Chrissy Mae?

arlier this year, Christine Gebhardt was watch- bit loose,” she explained. “I loosen by hands a bit, tap the ing a collegiate softball game with her father. plate twice and say, ‘Pizza after the game.’ That’s what I During the broadcast, a particular player ex- thought of when I first did it.” E plained in a brief spot how she had a specific Wait … What? Pizza?!? ritual when getting into the batter’s box, how she focused “I know, it’s so random. But that’s me. I’m weird. I’ll on the task at hand. accept it. I’m not going to act like somebody I’m not. I Her father suggested she give something similar a try don’t care what other people say about me. I’ll dance next time she went to the plate. “So, what I do is … I squeeze the bat and get myself a (Continued on next page)

34 Aug./Sept. 2015 (Continued from previous page) before the game and if it’s weird, who cares?” Folks, meet one of the funniest, most interesting young ladies amid the Shore softball scene. Oh, and she just happens to be one of the deadliest hitters as well as one of the best fielding first basemen around. And she’s superstitious. “On my way to a game one day, about a week before the high school season ended,” she started, “I was eating an ap- ple and I had a knife to cut it, so I could dip it in my peanut butter, which I had in a little container. I finished the apple and put the knife and peanut butter container in my bag. “Well, we won that day and I left the knife and container in there until the end of the season. In fact, I think it’s still in there.” Pause, as she stands up and rum- mages through her bag … “Yep, here it is.” Pause, as she puts the evidence back in the bag and sits down … “Once, I found a Gatorade in my bag with a big chunk of mold in the bottom of the bottle,” she added, offering a nau- seated grimace. “There was no way I was drinking that. It was gross.” Well, at least we now know she’s not drinking gross things dug out from her bag after weeks or months of being there. But what may not be known to many is that the Middletown North soon-to- be senior, who mostly goes by Chrissy Mae, recently made her college choice. She’s going to Manhattan College, home of the Jaspers. “I’ll officially sign in November, but it’s definite,” she said. “Growing up close to New York City, it’s always been a place I enjoyed going with my friends. Christine Gebhardt is And the minute I stepped on campus I confident, funny and knew it was where I wanted to be.” can hit the heck out of Without question, the Jaspers some- the ball. Manhattan College will get to see day will be able to use her consistent her talent up close and bat, smarts on the bases, excellence in personal after next the field and leadership in the dugout. season. This past spring, Christine bat- ted .510 with 52 hits, including 18 dou- bles and five home runs, 44 RBI and 45

(Continued on next page)

shoresbmag.com 35 Christine Gebhardt has a fun side but she gets serious on the field. She batted .510 this past spring.

(Continued from previous page) themselves, or players who trask-talk their teammates, and players who don’t pay attention to what’s going on. runs scored, leading the Lions to the Shore Conference “Oh, and it irks me when somebody doesn’t work hard Tournament title. and then complains she doesn’t get to play much. It’s “I just work hard at everything,” she said. “I don’t go like, ‘Um, do you really expect to play much when you out there and say, ‘I should do well today.’ No. If I’ve don’t work for it?’ That’s just crazy.” worked hard and put the work into whatever it is I need Speaking of which, imagine what it’s like to be Chrissy to do, then I’m confident that I will do well. But you have Mae’s best friend, Riley Kernan. to work hard at everything you do, because nobody just “Riley and I are on completely opposite ends of the hands you anything. You have to earn it.” spectrum,” she said. “I’ve known her since I was 4 and For as fantastic a fielder as she is, Chrissy Mae puts in our dads are best friends. Riley’s a complete girly girl the most time with her hitting. and I’m not even close. She’s the one who shows up with “I definitely put in a lot of time working on my swing her hair curled or braided and I don’t even brush my hair and hitting the ball,” she said. “It’s the part of the game I to go to the field.” really enjoy, and I don’t mind going out in the yard and And off the field, Christine enjoys skiing, snowboard- just working on it.” ing and dirt biking, as well as a bunch of other things. But it would seem Christine works hard on every as- “Hanging out with my family and friends makes me pect of her game, and the confidence she exudes on and super happy,” she said. “My mom’s cooking makes me off the field is phenomenal. super happy. I love her her Chicken Cordon Bleu. Oh, “I can joke about anything, but there’s a time to be and chocolate milk with ice makes me super happy too. serious on the field,” she said. “And the things I can’t But I can’t stand when people chew with their mouths stand are when players mope around and feel bad for open. That just skeeves me out.”

36 Aug./Sept. 2015

Each year, many senior softball players graduate from high school. Recognizing their hard work, dedication and commitment to their teams, we pay tribute to them here.

Barnegat Christine Doelger, University of Maryland Tara Jackson, Ocean County College Sarah Mulligan, Brookdale Community College Mackenzie Darmstatter, Ocean County College Gabby Villali, New York University Marissa Stadtmauer, Ocean County College Rebecca Vaughan, Wagner College

Brick Holmdel Jessica McDonaugh, Dowling College (Softball) April Licato, Rowan University Tori Hart, Ocean County College Jackie Wong, University of South Carolina Nicole DiFoglio, Felician College Ashley Wong, Montclair State University Kristi Kawa, Ocean County College Nicole Ponisi, Jess Heinly, Ocean County College Howell Brick Memorial Sabrina Rittweger, Rowan University (Softball) Sierra Culloo, The College of New Jersey (Softball) Taylor Mennie, Brookdale CC (Softball) Jessica Bormann, Immaculata University (Softball) Alexarae Rizzo, Drew University (Softball) Hannah Kowalski, Pace University (Softball) Jackson Liberty Central Regional Alexys Fatovic, University of Mississippi Stephanie Pepper, Philadelphia Univ. (Softball) Alexis DeJesus, Ocean County College Erin Trapp, Columbia University Julia DeJohn, Kean University

Colts Neck Jackson Memorial Meghan Royle, University of Maine (Softball) Sara Marques, Ocean County College Molly Jackson, Georgian Court (Softball) Jordan Barcus, College of Charleston

Donovan Catholic Keansburg Rebecca Drake, Quinnipiac University (Softball) Brittany Willie, William Paterson University Kelcy McGeehan, St. Thomas Aquinas (Softball) Summer Abner, Florida Atlantic University Manalapan Mackenzie Bakker, Rowan University Liz Lizama, Paul Mitchell School Adriana Scimone, Georgian Court (Softball) Freehold Boro Alex Wendolowski, Rutgers University Taylor Spallanzani, Marist College Olivia Cafaro, Penn State University Victoria Frascino, Dominican College Olivia Carbone, Brookdale CC (Softball) Madison DeJesus, Johnson & Wales University Brittany Piccillo, Brookdale Community College Dana Lisi, Stockton University Freehold Township Alexis Moorman, Monmouth University Megan Callahan, Penn State University Gabriella Graziano, Towson University Manasquan Katie Tirabassi, Stevens Tech (Softball) Meghan Gilly, James Madison University Danielle Salvatore, Mercer College (Softball) Aubrey Jones, Cabrini College Nicole Eng, Lafayette College Quinn Saito, St. Joseph's University Ashley Priante, Quinnipiac University Olivia Galinis, Virginia Tech Amanda Lally, Stockton University Manchester Henry Hudson Julia Ott, University of Massachusetts Kendall Keelen, George Washington Nicolette Maloney, East Stroudsburg University Julia DiGiorgio, Rutgers University Maddie Leppert, Monmouth University Linda Gallagher, University of Delaware Kate Kettmann, Coastal

NOTE: Some teams and players are not listed here, either because So, we say … Thank you, senior softballers! Congratulations and best wishes in your collegiate or trade school endeavors, and to those continuing their softball careers!

Jenna Parliament, Burlington County College Samantha Kelly, St. Peter's University

Marlboro Point Pleasant Boro Brianna Brienza, Brookdale CC (Softball) Ali Blisnuk, Clemson University Amanda Caputo, Stockton University Matawan Erin Powers, Felician College (Softball) Raritan Daniella Marino, TCNJ (Softball) Mater Dei Prep Bethany Budner, Drew University (Softball) Jamie Luminoso, St. Leo University Bethany Evans, Brookdale CC (Softball) Brooke Trotta, St. Peter's University Brianna Rinaldi, Brookdale Community College

Middletown North Red Bank Catholic Nikki Alfano, University of Tampa (Softball) Brynne Bauman, Felician College (Softball) Gabby Bram, Hofstra (Softball) Middletown South Mary Klecko, Brookdale Community College Alex Corrigan, Fairfield University (Softball) Allie Savino, Georgian Court University Julia Beck, University of Michigan Nicki Curran, Seton Hall University Red Bank Regional Tiffani Lambert, St. Peter's University (Softball) Katie Serkus, Monmouth University Phoenix Starick, Brookdale Community College Jaime Mannino, Paul Mitchell School Darby Olex-Memoli, University of Delaware Monmouth Regional Srividya Tyler, Brookdale Community College Jade Eggleston, Rutgers University Jessica Scotti, University of Rhode Island Taylor Hager, Fordham University Kansis Calabrese, Brookdale Community College Kayla Hueston, Monmouth University Michelle Montifinese, Brookdale CC St. John Vianney Haley Pszeniczny, Stockton University Ashley Ventura, St. Joseph's University (Softball) Erica Krumbine, Wagner College (Softball) Ocean Township Jess Carlucci, Misericordia University (Softball) Kelly Shapiro, East Stroudsburg University Claire Stefanelli, New York University (Softball) Michaela Pembleton, Neumann College (Softball) Michelle King, Liberty University (Softball) Gabby Ferrara, High Point University Victoria Mahoney, Dowling College (Softball) Mckenzie Clare, Bloomsburg University Kaitlyn Pascua, Stockton University Shore Regional Tasheka Henry, University of Rhode Island Jessica Layton, Brookdale Community College

Pinelands Regional Toms River East Naomi Stas, Philadelphia University (Softball) Alyssa Cenci, Muhlenberg College Stephanie Healy, Florida Atlantic (Softball) Lauren Coppinger, Brookdale CC (Softball) Kurstin Binshedler, Ocean County College (Softball) Arizona Dimon, Ocean County College (Softball) Shannyn Herron, Ocean County College (Softball) Emily Dancisin, Ocean County College (Softball) Toms River North Ashley Cusicanqui, Felician College (Softball) Taylor Ward, Dartmouth (Softball) Brielle Iacobino, University of South Florida Point Pleasant Beach Sam Monetti, Keystone University (Softball) Alexa Russell, Monmouth University Nicole Luliano, University of Florida Wall Kelly Ohlinger, Rutgers University Katie Wingel, New York University the team had no seniors or the coach did not provide information. Submit Your Softball Selfies!

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For each issue of Shore Softball Magazine, we’ll select a batch of selfies submitted by softball players throughout Monmouth and Ocean counties. Just send your selfies of groups of three or more to [email protected] for possible inclusion! AROUND THE HORN

Kristen Solari was a force for Johnson Brianna Murphy & Wales this past spring, finishing as one of the Wildcats’ offensive leaders in multiple categories. The junior catcher, who started all Murphy, Rafter end solid 38 games, ended up with a team- careers at Susquehanna leading .472 batting average and 60 hits. She also tallied 10 doubles, 34 Hazlet’s Brianna Murphy and RBI and 29 runs scored, striking out Highlands’ Bridget Rafter recently just once in 127 at-bats. wrapped up solid careers at Susque- Behind the plate, she ended up hanna University, while Toms River’s with a .994 fielding percentage, re- Amanda Neveroski produced team- cording 149 putouts and 23 assists. leading offensive numbers during her As a result of her solid season, So- junior season with the Crusaders. Susquehann University lari was named to the Great Northeast A former Toms River North stand- Athletics photo Athletic Conference second team. out, Neveroski started all 34 games and batted .390 this past spring, 90 at-bats. As a first basemen, Rafter Hourihan effective in finshing with a team-leading 39 hits recorded 163 putouts and six assists, and 10 doubles while accumulating 21 ending with a .983 fielding percent- pitcher’s circle for TCNJ RBI and scoring 28 runs, striking out age. just seven times in 100 at-bats. Former Neptune standout Katie Murphy, a former Mater Dei Prep Varriello helps Kean Hourihan had an effective junior sea- standout, culminated her career with son in the pitcher’s circle for The Col- a .345 batting average this season, grab 5th in D-III tourney lege of New Jersey this past spring. also starting in all 34 games and tally- The right-hander made 16 appear- ing 39 hits, which included three tri- Former Jackson Memorial stand- ances, including 15 starts, and fin- ples and four home runs. She ended out Tiffany Varriello recently helped ished with a 9-4 record for the Lions, up with 18 RBI and 13 walks while Kean University finish fifth in the registering a 2.23 ERA. posting a .522 slugging percentage. NCAA Division III championship Hourihan gave up 24 earned runs, She also stole a team-best 13 bases tournament during a 10-4 victory over walked only 12 and kept opponents to and scored a team-high 31 runs. then-15th-ranked Alfred University. a .260 batting average. She also re- A former Henry Hudson standout, During the May 22 contest, Var- corded a 1.000 fielding percentage, Rafter ended her career by bat- riello, who played first base, went 1- notching 23 assists. ting .311 this season, managing 28 for-3 with a walk and an RBI, as the hits, including seven doubles, and 17 Cougars used an eight-run third in- Sensi manages excellent RBI. She struck out just four times in ning to scorch Alfred and go on to play No. 4 Salisbury, which then junior season at Rider Bridget Rafter knocked off Kean (31-15-1) with a 2-0

win the next day. Former Allentown standout Dana A day earlier in the double- Sensi had a big impact in the Rider elimination tourney, Varriello had University lineup this past spring, fin- one of Kean’s two hits in a 1-0 loss to ishing as the team leader in just about No. 2 Texas-Tyler, finishing 1-for-3. every offensive category. For the season, Varriello started in Starting all 47 games at first base 38 games and batted .286. At first as a junior, Sensi ended up batting a base, she recorded 234 putouts and 13 team-best .380 with 54 hits, including assists. 12 doubles and 13 home runs, 38 RBI, 15 walks and 33 runs scored. Solari has solid junior While posting a .991 fielding per- centage, Sensi registered 312 putouts season with Wildcats Susquehann University and 10 assists while committing just Athletics photo Former St. John Vianney standout (Continued on next page)

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(Continued from previous page) baseman Marlena Bevilacqua had a Dana Sensi solid first season at FDU-Florham three errors. this past spring, putting up a .355 bat- For her career thus far, Sensi goes ting average with 33 hits in 93 at-bats. into her senior year batting .335 with Bevilacqua was second on the team 142 hits, including 27 doubles and 20 in hits, which included six doubles homers, 86 RBI and 63 runs scored. and a triple, while scoring 21 runs and To date, she also has accumulated 831 adding 10 RBI. putouts and 87 assists at first base, Playing in the outfield as a fresh- committing only 11 errors for a .988 man, Bevilacqua recorded 43 putouts fielding percentage. and four assists.

Hauser ends with fine D’Ornellas finishes season at Bloomfield Peter G. Borg photo off career at Drew

Former Brick and Brookdale Com- and in the classroom. Former Lacey standout Laura munity College player Angela Hauser During her senior season, Ortiz D’Ornellas capped her career at Drew finished her career with a productive started all 35 games for the Ospreys, University with a solid effort at the senior season at Bloomfield College. registering a .347 batting average with plate, as she started 37 games for the A utility player, Hauser started 21 33 hits in 95 at-bats. Ortiz scored 17 Rangers. of 40 games and ended with a .361 runs and had six walks. As an out- D’Ornellas ended the spring season batting average, 26 hits, which in- fielder, she recorded 17 putouts. with a .349 batting average, going 38- cluded six doubles, and 12 RBI. She But in the classroom is where Ortiz for-109, with four doubles and 13 went to the plate 72 times and re- performed best, selected to the Capi- RBI. She scored 17 runs and went 3- corded a .418 on-base percentage for tal One Academic All-District 2 team. for-3 on stolen-base attempts. the Division II Bears. Ortiz managed a 3.96 GPA and re- In the field, she recorded 136 put- cently graduated with a degree in ac- outs and 39 assists. Stockton’s Ortiz does counting. well in class and on field Bevilacqua solid in first

Former Manchester standout Ma- season at FDU-Florham risa Ortiz finished off a solid career at Middletown South snags Stockton University, both on the field Former St. John Vianney third fifth state championship

The Middletown South High School squad snagged a fifth overall state championship on June 5, scor- ing an 8-1 victory over Sparta in the Group III title game at Kean Univer- sity. Senior Julia Blarr crushed a two- run homer in the bottom of the first inning to provides the Eagles, who finished 28-5, with all the runs they needed, as junior pitcher Maddie McMahon (19-1) gave up just five hits and no walks while striking out six to cap her fantastic campaign in the cir- cle.

Middletown South softball team (Continued on next page)

shoresbmag.com 45 Whether its adult league, college, high school, travel, youth or recreation fastpitch, this magazine exists to highlight the teams and players at all levels!

We want to recognize them for all the good things they’re doing on and off the field! AROUND THE HORN

(Continued from Page 43) Middletown North softball team The Eagles scored a run in the sec- ond on an RBI double from Nicki Curran, two more in the third on a two-run double by Ally Massa, and three more in the fourth, fueled by a two-run double by Alex Corrigan and an RBI double from Ciara Sullivan, cruising to the state-title victory. The Eagles have won four Group III championships and one Group IV title under head coach Tom Erbig, who this season also surpassed the 700-victory mark for his career. In addition to Blarr, McMahon, Curran, Massa, Corrigan and Sullivan, bottom of the eighth for the only run n’t answer the offensive power of Ce- the rest of the squad included seniors of game. dar Grove, falling in the Group I final, Tiffani Lambert, Julia Beck, Phoenix Middletown North had last won 10-1, and finishing 21-3. Starick, Kendal Lotosky and Lauren the SCT in 1974, when Middletown In the final, Emma Curry went 3- Sheard, juniors Hannah Wisialko and only had one high school. for-3 but Linda Gallagher was the Jordyn DellaValle, sophomores Sarah In addition to Kernan and only other Admiral with a hit, which Corey and Morgan Russo, and fresh- Gebhardt, the Lions’ roster included scored Curry in the fourth to account men Jillian Bigos, Alissa Carfora and Nikki Alfano, Payleigh Behan, Lizzie for Hudson’s only run. Sarah Riso. Dorsa, Milena Wilton, Alyssa Vetrano, Still, the Admirals’ run was amaz- Middletown South won the Central Emily Kernan, Ryan Rasmussen, ing, as they blazed a path to the state Jersey Group III title with a 5-4, eight Kayla Gallo, Hannah LoCaputo, Tay- semifinals by ousting Keyport, 17-2, in -inning win over Steinert, then lor Apel, Hali Purcell, Sam Kanach, the sectional quarterfinals, then reached the group championship with Mackenzie Shevlin and Angela Dela- notching an 8-4 win over Florence in a 2-1, 10-inning victory over Delsea hanty. the semis before a 6-3 win over on a successful Wisialko squeeze. For the season, Gallo had a mon- Bound Brook in the section final. Middletown South also finished as ster sophomore campaign, bat- In the Group I semifinal, Hudson the Shore Conference Tournament ting .559 with 52 hits, 14 doubles, 11 grabbed a 2-0 lead in the second in- runner-up. homers and 55 RBI, while Gebhardt ning and never let up on New Egypt, continued to be a consistent force, adding four runs in the third to take a Middletown North wins batting .510 with 52 hits, 18 doubles, commanding 6-0 lead, before adding five homers and 44 RBI. Alfano was two more runs in the seventh to finish 1st SCT crown in 41 years one of the Shore’s most effective lead- off the game. off batters, tallying 32 walks and 48 Beside Curry and Gallagher, the After knocking off top-seeded St. runs to go with her 42 hits, including Hudson crew also included Julia Di- John Vianney, 2-0, in the Shore Con- 12 doubles, and .519 batting average. Giorgio, Kendall Keelen, Rebecca ference Tournament quarterfinals, Riley Kernan ended up with a .441 Vaughan, Kamryn Hubeny, Olivia then barely surviving in a 15-14 slug- average, tallying 41 hits and 32 RBI. Iannace, Ali Quast, Sophia Shea, fect with Donovan Catholic in the Gabby Villali, Christine Doelger, semifinals, the Middletown North Henry Hudson reaches Sarah Mulligan and Vincenza Villali. squad won its first SCT crown in 41 During the season, Iannace was years with a 1-0, eight-inning victory Group I final for 1st time one of the offensive leaders for the over crosstown rival Middletown Admirals, posting a .579 batting aver- South on June 4. After scorching defending Group I age with 44 hits, including four hom- Winning pitcher Riley Kernan, who champion New Egypt, 8-2, in the Cen- ers, and 35 RBI, while Curry was right went 2-for-4 at the plate and allowed tral Jersey Group I championship, behind her, batting .568 with 42 hits, only two hits in the circle, swatted a Henry Hudson reached its first over- including 10 doubles and eight home single up the middle to score Chris- all state title game in its history. tine Gebhardt from second base in the Unfortunately, the Admirals could- (Continued on next page)

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(Continued from previous page) runs, and 42 RBI. DiGiorgio capped a fantastic career by batting .451 with 43 hits, including 12 doubles and four homers, and 33 hits. Keelen also finished off a solid career, batting .418 with 25 RBI, and posting a 2.48 ERA while allowing just 22 walks in the circle.

Pepper ends great career with Central Ks mark

Central Regional’s Stephanie Pep- per capped an awesome career with another fantastic season, culminating with a Shore Conference-leading 275 HenryHudson softball team strikeouts and the Golden Eagles’ all- time strikeouts record with 825. Pepper, whose record was 53-31 as cluding nine homers, and 51 RBI, Wall led by Hand, a four-year starter in the circle, was 12 while Claire Stefanelli finished with -9 with an ERA of 1.04 and nine shut- a .485 batting average, 47 hits, includ- Brennan and Layton outs this past spring. She ended with ing seven homers, and 28 RBI. Erica a 1.64 career ERA and 21 shutouts. Krumbine ended with a .464 batting It almost seemed like a bit of an off Pepper also finished her career average, 39 hits and 18 walks. year for Wall, but the Crimson with a .454 batting average, 122 hits, Knights still had plenty of productive 91 RBI and 33 doubles. players in their lineup this season, including Katrina Hand, Colleen Hourihan effective in Brennan and Carley Layton. Ventura finishes career pitcher’s circle for TCNJ While batting .435 for the season, at SJV in a big way Hand swatted 40 hits, scored 29 runs Ocean Township sophomore third and added 11 RBI. Brennan whacked St. John Vianney pitcher Ashley baseman Giovanna Russomanno had 34 hits in 82 at-bats for a .415 batting Ventura finished off a stellar career a record-breaking season for the average while delivering 19 RBI and this past spring, not only by leading Spartans this past spring, tallying 49 scoring 23 runs. the way as a pitcher but also at the hits to set the single-season mark. Layton had a breakthrough season, plate, delivering a monster season as Batting .454 in 28 games, Russo- batting .400 while banging 28 hits, she heads to St. Joseph’s University manno went to the plate 108 times which included four homers, driving next fall. and swatted 11 doubles, four triples in a team-leading 25 runs and scoring In the circle, Ventura was awe- and three homers in addition to 31 15 times. some, allowing five earned runs singles. through 159 inning for a 0.22 ERA, as Russomanno also delivered 27 RBI Kane, Lynch have big she and the Lancers went 25-2 on the and scored 30 times. seasons at Manchester season. Ventura struck out 215 and Meanwhile, sophomore catcher walked just eight batters. Morgan Walsh continued to hit the At the plate, Ventura batted .545 ball well in her second season. Walsh Freshman Anja Kane and sopho- with 48 hits, including nine home batted .437 with 38 hits, including more Emily Lynch had big seasons at runs, and tallied 48 RBI while striking seven doubles, three triples and five the plate for Manchester this past out just twice in 88 at-bats. homers, and a team-leading 32 RBI. spring, leading the offensive charge But Ventura wasn’t the only big bat Freshan Emma Vasen led the for the Hawks. in the lineup this past spring. Jessica Spartans with seven homers and Kane registered 29 hits, including Carlucci batted .554 with 46 hits, in- brought in 25 RBI as well. (Continued on next page)

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(Continued from previous page)

11 doubles, three triples and a homer, in 64 at-bats for a .453 batting aver- age while knocking in 16 runs and scoring 23 times. Lynch went to the plate 61 times and managed 30 hits for a .492 aver- age and tallied 20 RBI. She also scored 15 times and had a .500 on- base percentage.

Davis has breakout season at Shore Regional St. Catharine softball team Sophomore outfielder Halah Davis and Shore Regional were still playing Bella Furfaro, Emma Krebs and Annie victory over the Midway Orange in a very tough Shore Conference A Make each whacked singles to cut the Crush in the PONY East Zone na- Central division this past spring, but lead to one with runners on second tional championship game. Davis was a bright spot on the roster and third for Grace Puharic, who The win capped an incredible run for the Blue Devils. smashed a game-ending double. by the young Flames, who won nine In a breakout season, Davis re- In the first inning, the Lakers took straight games and outscored their corded 30 hits in just 59 at-bats, post- a 2-0 lead on a two-run triple by Fur- opponents, 75-13, to capture the title. ing a .508 batting average, while scor- faro, then later made it 4-2 when This year, the Flames went 97-9-3 ing a team-best 16 runs. She also Bourke hit a leadoff homer in the brought in 10 runs, whacked five dou- and snagged 10 tournament crowns. third before Furfaro added another Coached by Dan Calicari, T.J. bles, four triples and a pair of homers. RBI triple. Davis registered a .545 on-base O’Donnell, Dan DeVirgilio, Bill togar Coached by Ceal Barreda, Laura and Brian Graime, the team consists percentage and struck out just five Turek and Paula Mako, the rest of the times. of Gianna Palmisano, Taylor Calicari, squad included Lauren Hickey, Cam- Emma Shieda, Gabby DeVirgilio, eron Keane, Olivia Maddalone, Lau- Morgan O’Donnell, Sarah O’Leary, ren Caswell, Rylee Carroll, Noelle Kasey Sekula, Lily Tamasiello, Sarah Turek, Hailey Hathaway, Kiernan Stepnowski, Kristen Tigar, Annabella Hickey, Kelsey O’Kelly, Danielle Pisapia, Alissa Eimont and Jordyn Grunwald, Carolyn Reilly and Renee Graime. St. Catharine captures Grunwald. During pool play, the Flames went MOPGSL championship In the MOPGSL semifinals, St. 4-0, knocking off the Maryland Leg- Catharine defeated Holy Innocents, 6- ends, 10-1, Wagner's, 3-2, the Xtreme, 2, on the strength of Annie Mako’s 3 The St. Catharine School squad 13-0, and Top Gun, 10-1. In bracket RBI and a three-run homer by Fur- ousted St. Benedict, 9-8, in the Mon- play, the Flames downed the Pennsyl- faro. mouth-Ocean Parochial Girls Softball vania Strikers, 8-0, and the New York

League championship game in early Diamond Girls, 7-2, to reach the eight

June, winning the title for the first -team quarterfinals. time after reaching the title game the In the quarters, the Flames ousted previous six seasons. the Ashburn Shooting Stars, 6-4, then

The Lakers were down by four runs routed Top Gun, 15-1, to reach the heading into the bottom of the sev- Flames 12U squad snags championship. enth and scored five times to win the PONY national crown Early in June, the Flames went 6-0 to capture the Edison Angels Shoot- game. After Kate Bourke dropped a bunt out PONY National Qualifier. The Jersey Flames 12-and-under Two weeks later, the young Flames single to lead off the rally, Sharon softball team finished off an amazing Marks moved Bourke to second on a season in July, culminating with a 3-2 (Continued on next page) groundout before Faith Masonius,

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(Continued from previous page) competed in their first PGF national qualifier in South Plainfield and reached the championship game be- fore falling to the Jersey Outlaws. The second-place finish qualified the Flames for the PGF Nationals in Cali- fornia, which they opted to forego to attend the PONY Nationals in Ster- ling, Va. The Flames also qualified for the USSSA Nationals in Maryland.

Lacey Storm 12U takes fifth at USSSA Nationals

After winning their first tourna- ment of the spring back in April — the USSSA Bunny Hop in Brick — the Lacey Storm 12U softball team Lacey Storm 12-and-under team took on the best of the USSSA rankings in the 12U Nationals in Maryland in mid up just five runs, the Storm knocked 1/3 innings before Pepper closed it -July and came home with a fifth- off the Delaware Valley Lightning in out for the Jaxx, who went 6-0 in pool place finish. the quarterfinals of bracket play be- play before knocking off the Delaware Going 3-0 in pool play, the Storm fore earning a spot in the champion- Diamonds, Spooky Nook and the Or- went into bracket play and lost their ship with a win over the Upper Provi- ange Crush to reach the final. first game of the tourney, 10-7, to the dence Legends. The rest of the squad included Sha- Catonsville Chaos. The Storm then In the championship against the kyra Moore, Kelcy McGeehan, Katrina rebounded, running off four straight North Brunswick Blast, the game was Hand, Jenna Platten, Jackie Howarth, victories in 95-degree heat. tied heading into the seventh before Taylor Mennie and Emily DeGenova. Following wins over the HRYS Kailee Howard drilled a three-run Glory (14-5), East Coast Titans Purple homer to provide a 4-1 victory. Xtreme 18U crew grabs (6-3), Norton Nitro (13-5) and Dela- ware Storm (6-1), the Lacey young- several tourney titles Jaxx Premier goes 10-0 sters went into the last inning against the Southern Tier Smoke tied up at 7- to win Invitational title The New Jersey Xtreme 18-and- 7 before coming up short, 10-7. under squad had a productive season Coached by Alan Nachman, Ray Behind the arms of Stephanie Pep- this summer, capturing tournament Howard and Duane Teahl, the Storm per and Naomi Stas, the RKE Jaxx titles on several occasions. is made up of players Brianna Bouti- Premier squad captured the McKenzie Earlier in the summer, the Xtreme lette, Olivia Fink, Grace Giordano, Travis Educational Foundation’s grabbed the Panther Pride Tourna- Samantha Giordano, Kaila Guzzo, Delaware Invitational Showcase on ment crown, snatching the trophy Kailee Howard, Darrian Koudelik, July 19 with a 9-2 win over the EC with an 8-2 win over the host Bridge- Samantha Martin, Lauren Nachman, Tsunami Gold. water Panthers in the final. In the Madison Smith and Bridget Teahl. In the championship, Lauren semifinals, the Xtreme ousted the After the Storm arrived home from Shirley, who had five home runs dur- Central Jersey Fillies. Maryland, they were joined by guest ing the tournament, and Quinn Saito After going 3-1-1 in the Xtreme Di- pitcher Jessica Ingram and won six each slammed three-run homers, mensions Showcase in mid-July, the straight games to win the Lacey Sum- while Annemarie Bartow added a solo Xtreme entered the Lacey Summer mer Storm tourney, culminating their blast and Casey DeSarno went 3-for-3 Storm tourney and took home an- season. to help drive the offense. Going 3-0 in pool play and giving Stas started in the circle and went 3 (Continued on previous page)

50 Aug./Sept. 2015 AROUND THE HORN other title, downing the host Lacey Storm, 6-4, in the championship. The Xtreme scored 10-0 and 8-0 victories over the Rampage White and Mon- mouth Surf, respectively, in the quar- terfinals and semifinals The squad is made up of Lizzie Dorsa, Stephanie Tuquero, Ryan Ras- mussen, Natalie Farparan, Catherine Grillo, Jamie DiMario, Emma Hughes, Megan Ruth, Carley Layton, Jessica Veary and Nancy Gray.

In first season, Mayhem making an impact Manahawkin Mayhem 14U softball team The Manahawkin Mayhem 14-and- under squad may be in its first sea- Ford went 4-for-4 with a triple and team earned a trip to the Eastern Re- son, but they made some waves this RBI while Teresa Hudson went 3-for- gional tournament in Worcester, summer, winning a couple of tourna- 4 with a double and 4 RBI, as Chris- Mass., snagging the New Jersey state ment championships along the way. tina D’Amodio pitched a four-hitter. title with a 10-7 win over Jersey City After taking third in the Stingray In addition to Ford, Hudson and in the New Jersey Big League champi- Mother’s Day Tournament in May, D’Amodio, the rest of the Mayhem onship game in mid-July. the Mayhem started June with a first- included Cameron Beauregard, Col- Coached by Jeff Kniffin, Tom Ma- place finish in the All-Shore Delaware leen Camburn, Nicole Conroy, Char- honey, Charles Burgin and Michael Tournament, then grabbed a second- lize Diou, Jackie Herrera, Cheyanne Pembleton, the Wall squad included place spot in the Berkeley Summer Nastasi and Olivia Sattan. Kim Sorg, Courtney Mahoney, Victo- Blaze tourney. ria Mahoney, Tara Cassucio, Colleen In late-July, the Mayhem snagged Brennan, Patricia Burgin, Kristen the Lacey Summer Storm title, knock- Campbell, Katherine Kile, Hannah ing off the South Jersey Surge, 8-0, in Kniffin, Kennedi Kalogy, Taylor the quarterfinals, before ousting the Kramer, Katevan Langworthy, Clare Brick Bombers in the semis, and then Wall Big League squad McGregor, Michaela Pembleton, Alex capturing the title with a shutout win snags NJ championship Vecchio and Amanda Cheche. over the Delaware Valley Lightning. After beating Trenton, 14-1, in the In the championship, Tatiyana The Wall LL Big League softball first round and Jersey City, 3-2 in the semifinals, Wall faced off against Jer- sey City in the final. Jersey City went up 6-0 before Wall mounted a comeback, scoring five runs in the third inning to trim the margin to a run. McGregor made it 6-2 with a two-run single, followed by another two-run single from Bren- nan and an RBI single from Michaela Pembleton. Jersey City scored again in the third, but Wall got an RBI double by Courtney Mahoney and an RBI single from Cassucio to tie the game. In the sixth, Wall took the lead for Wall Big League softball team good on a two-run single from Court- ney Mahoney.

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