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

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:

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.”

Via uclabruins.com:

 Vs. Cal State Northridge, April 18
Cal State Northridge 3, UCLA 10
Harrison, 4/18: (AB-4;R-0;H-1;RBI-1;BB-0;SO-0;PO-0;A-1;LOB-1)

“…The Bruins tied things up in their first at-bat, producing three straight doubles by Schroeder, LaRosa and senior Andrea Harrison to make it 2-all.
“… Harrison tapped one back to the circle, which forced Snow at the plate for the second out, but Bates followed with a double to center to bring in Schroeder and LaRosa to make it 10-3. However, Northridge avoided the mercy rule, as Harrison was thrown out at the plate for the final out of the inning.”

Vs. Utah, April 20,21,and 22
Game 1, 4/20: UCLA 5, Utah 0
Game 2, 4/21: UCLA 11, Utah 8
Game 3, 4/22: UCLA 9, Utah 1
Harrison, 4/20-22: (AB-10;R-4;H-5;RBI-8;BB-1;SO-0;PO-3;A-0;LOB-0)
Game 1:
“UCLA scored three more times in the sixth. Again with one out, senior Andrea Harrison singled up the middle and moved to second on a passed ball. After a walk to junior B.B. Bates, and with freshman Sam Duran coming in to run for Harrison, Yudin smashed her seventh homer of the season to left-center to increase the Bruins’ lead to 5-0.”
Game 2:
“Senior Andrea Harrison hit a pair of homers and drove in four…
“…Harrison moved into fourth place on UCLA’s all-time list with her 51st and 52nd career home runs.
“…LaRosa followed with a double to right-center to plate Duran to make it 3-0 and a home run by Harrison to center, her 11th of the year, increased the UCLA lead to 6-0.
“…The Bruins got one of the runs back in the fourth on a leadoff homer by Harrison to right-center, her 12th of the season and second of the game, to make it 11-2.”
Game 3:
“Seniors Andrea Harrison and Dani Yudin and freshman Stephany LaRosa each had two hits, while Harrison, LaRosa and juniorB.B. Bates all homered, as the 15th-ranked Bruins defeated Utah 9-1 in six innings on Sunday at Easton Stadium.
“…Harrison drove in four to give her three homers and eight RBI in the series, while LaRosa had a pair of RBI.
“… Harrison smashed her 13th homer of the season to left to increase UCLA’s lead to 6-1.”

Via ragincajuns.com:

Cajuns Sweep LSWA Weekly Honors (4/18)

“UL’s Christi Orgeron and Ashley Brignac secured this week’s edition of the Louisiana Sports Writers Association (LSWA) Softball Hitter and Pitcher of the Week awards Wednesday as voted upon by the state’s sports information directors.

“A senior outfielder for the Cajuns, Orgeron added three long balls and 11 RBIs as she collected hits in five of Louisiana’s six games last week. That brings her impressive season totals to 15 home runs to go along with 73 RBIs, tops in the NCAA. Her fourth grand slam of the season came in the series opener at Middle Tennessee State and tied her with former Ragin’ Cajuns All-American Gabriele Bridges for the second-most in a season in NCAA history.

“It’s the sixth weekly award for Orgeron and the fifth for Brignac from the LSWA.”

Vs. Florida Atlantic University, April 21 and 22
Game 1, 4/21: Louisiana 21, FAU 0

Game 2, 4/21: Louisiana 10, FAU 2

Game 3, 4/22: Louisiana 9, FAU 1

Mack, 4/20-22: (AB-7;R-6;H-4;RBI-10;BB-5;SO-0;PO-1;A-0;LOB-0)

Game 1:

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

“Orgeron launched her NCAA tying grand slam in a Cajuns eight-run third inning, giving her nine slams in her career. The New Orleans, La. native finished the doubleheader 3-for-5, with two homeruns, four runs scored and eight RBI. On the season, the senior has 17 long balls and leads the nation with 81 RBI. 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.

“Orgeron is one of 10 finalists for the Lowe’s Senior CLASS Award and a top 25 finalist for USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year.”

Game 2:

“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.”

Game 3:

“Christi Orgeron gave the Cajuns (41-2, 16-2) an early 2-0 lead as she tagged a 2-2 offering from FAU hurler, Paige Pender, for a two-run blast to left center, giving her a team-leading 18 homeruns on the year. The homerun increased her career total to 66, tying her with former UL slugger Gabriele Bridges for third on the school’s all-time list.”

“UL walked off with a mercy rule win in the bottom of the sixth as Haack drove in Myers, with a single to left field, and a fly ball off the bat of Draheim was dropped by the left fielder Alison Milam, which scored Orgeron for the 9-1 victory.”

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.”

Via Matt Dunaway, Associate SID, on lsusports.net:

Vs. McNeese State, April 17:

LSU 2, McNeese State 1

Vs. Florida State, April 18:

LSU 1, FSU 8

Mack, 4/18: (L, 12-8; IP-3.1;H-5;R-5;ER-5;BB-0;SO-3;WP-0;BK-0;HBP-1;IBB-0;AB-15;BF-17;FO-1;GO-6;NP-63)

“The Seminoles tacked on a Celeste Gomez solo home run with one out during the fourth inning to push their lead to 5-0 and chase LSU starter Brittany Mack from the game. Mack was dealt her fourth straight setback by a Top 25 opponent and fell to 12-8 for the season.

‘”Tennessee, Alabama and Florida State – I’ve got to give credit to them,” Mack said. “They’ve got some good hitters. I could try and place the ball a little better, but they’ve got some really good hitters. I just had a bad day today.”’

Vs. Ole Miss, April 20,21,and 22

Game 1, 4/20: LSU 4, Ole Miss 0

Game 2, 4/21: LSU 2, Ole Miss 1

Game 3, 4/22: LSU 0, Ole Miss 1

Mack, 4/20-22: (W, 13-8; IP-7.0;H-8;R-1;ER-0;BB-2;SO-11;WP-0;BK-0;HBP-0;IBB-0;AB-29;BF-31;FO-2;GO-7;NP-107)

Game 2:

“Brittany Mack went the distance in the circle and ended a four-game losing streak. She scattered eight hits and was touched up for an unearned run to improve to 13-8 on the season. The senior right-hander racked up 11 strikeouts versus two walks and reached double figure Ks for the fifth time in 2012.”

Last week ended with the USSSA Pride’s Ashley Charters visiting Stetson University Softball team, located in Deland, Florida. The Stetson University Softball team are known as the Hatters and a part of the Alantic Sun Conference.  They are lead by Head coach Frank Griffin and Associate Head Coach Vanessa Bataille.

Head Coach Frank Griffin is in his 16^th season leading the Hatters and has worked diligently to build a successful softball program that boasts numerous Atlantic Sun Conference appearances along with leading a fundraising effort to build the softball complex there today.  The Hatters welcomed Charters to their practice with a great a question and answer session that included topics such as: opportunities in the National Pro Fastpitch, mental toughness, and softball experiences in college. The Hatters also had the opportunity to show some of their Stetson Pride by performing one of their cheers they perform prior to games. Overall, the visit proved to be a great success in spreading the knowledge of the National Pro Fastpitch and connecting with the fanbase of the USSSA Pride.

Via uclabruins.com

Vs. Stanford, April 10 and 11

Game 1, 4/10: Stanford 11, UCLA 9

Game 2, 4/10: Stanford 4, UCLA 12

Game 3, 4/11: Stanford 2, UCLA 5

Harrison, 4/10-11: (AB-10;R-3;H-2;RBI-3;BB-2;SO-2;PO-3;A-0;LOB-2)

Game 1:

“LaRosa led off the seventh with a single for her fourth hit of the game, but White induced senior Andrea Harrison into a double play grounder and retired junior B.B. Bates on a grounder to end the game.”

Game 2:

“Camuso and Harrison both had two hits, three RBI and a homer, as the Bruins won game two by a score of 12-4 in five innings.

“…UCLA (26-11, 3-5) added two more in the third. Schroeder led off with a single up the middle, stole second, and one out later, moved to third on a single to right by Harrison. A Bates walk loaded the bases and Camuso followed with a single to left-center to plate Schroeder and Harrison to make it 5-1.

“…Duran would be forced at third on a grounder off the bat of LaRosa, but Harrison followed with a three-run bomb to center to make it 8-4.”

Game 3:

“UCLA struck first with two runs in its first at-bat. With two outs, senior Andrea Harrison walked and Bates belted her 11th home run of the season to center to make it 2-0.”

Vs. Washington, April 13,14,and 15 

Game 1, 4/13: UCLA 7, Washington 5

Game 2, 4/14: UCLA 5, Washington 0

Game 3, 4/15: UCLA 2, Washington 5

Harrison, 4/13-15: (AB-9;R-2;H-2;RBI-0;BB-1;SO-6;PO-3;A-0;LOB-2)

Game 1:

“A single up the middle by freshman Stephany LaRosa brought home Schroeder to make it 5-4 and a double to left-center by senior Andrea Harrison put two in scoring position. Bates followed with a flare double to left, as LaRosa and Harrison scored to give the Bruins a 6-5 lead.”

Game 2:

“UCLA added another run in the fifth. With one out, a LaRosa single and a hit by pitch of senior Andrea Harrison put a pair on base. Harrison would be retired at second on a fielder’s choice grounder off the bat of junior B.B. Bates to second for the second out of the inning, but Camuso followed with a single to left to bring home LaRosa to make it 3-0.”

Game 3:

“UCLA recorded just four hits, with seniors Andrea Harrison and Katie Schroeder and freshman Stephany LaRosa posting the other singles.

“…Schroeder led off with a walk, LaRosa singled to left and both runners moved up on a wild pitch. Harrison then had an excuse-me swing that dribbled to first and she was able to beat out the grounder to load the bases. But Inglesby momentarily killed the rally when she induced junior B.B. Bates into a comebacker double play, as Schroeder was retired at home. Yudin followed with a flare single to right-center, plating LaRosa and Harrison to cut the deficit to 5-2. However, Yudin was thrown out to end the inning trying to advance to second. UCLA would be retired in order in the seventh.”

Via Matt Dunaway, Associate SID, on lsusports.net:

Vs. Tennessee, April 13,14,and 15: 

Game 1, 4/13: LSU 0, Tennessee 2

Game 2, 4/14: LSU 2, Tennessee 4

Game 3, 4/15: LSU 2, Tennessee 10

Mack, 4/13-15: L, 12-7;IP-7.1;H-9;R-9;ER-5;BB-1;S0-7;WP-1;BK-0;HBP-1;IBB-0;AB-35;BF-38;FO-5;GO-11;NP-136

Game 2:

“With runners on second and third base, the Lady Vols crossed the plate with their third run via a Brittany Mack wild pitch. Melissa Brown added a RBI ground out to make it 4-0.

“Mack would settle in to post five consecutive zeroes and scatter four hits the rest of the way. The senior right-hander picked up five strikeouts versus one walk. She was dealt her third straight setback and fell to 12-7 for the season.”

Game 3:

“The Lady Vols ripped off five runs during the sixth inning. Dotson and Shipman connected for a single and double off of Brittany Mack in relief. A fielding error by shortstop Juliana Santos on a Gibson chopper enabled both runners to score.”

Via georgiadogs.com

Vs. USC Upstate, April 10

USC Upstate 3, Georgia 7

Sandberg, 4/10: AB-2;R-2;H-2;RBI-3;BB-1;SO-0;PO-11;A-1;LOB-0 

“With two outs in the first, senior Kristyn Sandberg put a two-run home run over the left center field wall to pull Georgia ahead 2-0. Sandberg brought in fellow senior Ashley Razey from first after she extended her reach base streak to 10 games with a walk.

“…Sandberg then powered back-to-back home runs to set the Bulldog’s lead to 7-1.”

Vs. South Carolina, April 11: 

Game 1, 4/11: South Carolina 3, Georgia 4

Game 2, 4/11: South Carolina 3, Georgia 8

Sandberg, 4/11: AB-6;R-3;H-4;RBI-4;BB-1;SO-0;PO-17;A-2;LOB-0

Game 1 and 2:

“Senior Kristyn Sandberg led the way in the twin bill, as she posted a .667 average off of four hits, including two home runs and a triple, while grabbing four RBI.”

Game 1:

“With two outs in the sixth, back-to-back solo home runs from Sandberg and Sito put Georgia back on top 3-1.”

Game 2:

“Wilson, Pauly and Sandberg each had two hits in the contest, with one being a home run for each.

“…Sandberg powered a triple to the center field wall to bring Razey around the bases and give Georgia the 1-0 lead in the first.

“… Sandberg put up a shot over the trees in center field to make it an 8-2 ballgame.”

Vs. Kentucky, April 13, 14, 15: 

Game 1, 4/13: Kentucky 4, Georgia 1

Game 2, 4/14: Kentucky 4, Georgia 0

Game 3, 4/15: Kentucky 3, Georgia 4

Sandberg, 4/13-15: AB-4;R-0;H-0;RBI-0;BB-3;SO-1;PO-27;A-2;LOB-0

Game 2:

“The Bulldogs had a chance in the top of the fourth, as Kristyn Sandberg led off the inning with a walk. She moved to third on a passed ball and an error that put Brittney Hubbard at first. Georgia was unable to push Sandberg across home plate, as the final batter was retired.”

Via gatorzone.com

Vs. University of Central Florida, April 11

Florida 0, UCF 2

Moultrie, 4/11: AB-3;R-0;H-2;RBI-0;BB-0;SO-1;PO-0;A-0;LOB-0 

“Florida senior Michelle Moultrie (Jacksonville, Fla.) was 2-for-3 on the evening, accounting for UF’s two hits in the contest against UCF, but the Knights got the best of the Gators Wednesday in Orlando, coming out on top with a 2-0 victory at the UCF Softball Complex.

“…Moultrie connected for UF’s first base hit of the contest, dropping a two-out lob in shallow left center for runners on second and third, but a lineout to UCF’s third baseman prevented the Gators from capitalizing.

“…Moultrie struck again the top of the sixth for Florida, laying down a one-out bunt single to get on base.”

Michelle Moultrie Named Top-25 Finalist for USA Softball’s Collegiate Player of the Year (4/12)

“Florida senior centerfielder Michelle Moultrie (Jacksonville, Fla.) and sophomore ace Hannah Rogers (Lake Wales, Fla.), both 2011 All-Americans and All-SEC selections, have been recognized as two of 25 NCAA softball players in contention for USA Softball’s 2012 Collegiate Player of the Year.”

“…Rogers and Moultrie have each worked their way to the top of the NCAA standings in their respective specialties. Individually, Rogers holds a top-five spot in the NCAA in two categories: second in ERA (0.86) and fifth in victories (20), while ranking 11th in shutouts (8) and 12th in saves (3). Moultrie ranks fifth in the country with 1.26 runs per game and her four triples on the year place her 11th of all NCAA student-athletes.”

Vs. Auburn, April 13, 14, 15: 

Game 1, 4/13: Florida 3, Auburn 2

Game 2, 4/14: Florida 3, Auburn 1

Game 3, 4/15: Florida 5, Auburn 2

Moultrie, 4/13-15: AB-9;R-2;H-2;RBI-3;BB-1;SO-1;PO-5;A-0;LOB-2

Game 1:

“After senior Michelle Moultrie (Jacksonville, Fla.) put up the first run of the game with a solo shot – her ninth of the year – in the bottom of the third, Auburn countered with two fourth-inning scores to take a 2-1 lead.

“… Moultrie put a little more power into it the second time around, blasting one over the left-center fence to put the Gators on the board first in the bottom of the third inning with her ninth round-tripper of the year.”

Game 2:

“t wasn’t long before senior Michelle Moultrie (Jacksonville, Fla.) smacked a two-RBI double to the right center warning track to give the Gators a 2-0 lead in the fifth with what would be her fifth game-winning RBI of the season and the first runs for either team on the day.

“…Moultrie sent both Medina and K. Fagan across home after roping a two-RBI double to deep right center for the 2-0 Gator lead. A freshman Sami Fagan (Dunnellon, Fla.) groundout moved Moultrie on to third with two down in the home half of the fifth, but a groundout to short retired the home team before the Orange and Blue could extend the lead.”

Game 3:

“Katie Medina(Downey, Calif.) moved her to second with her team-leading ninth sac bunt of the season. With two down after a fly out, Gammel took third on a Bunner passed ball with the top of the Gator order and senior Michelle Moultrie (Jacksonville, Fla.) at the plate. Moultrie drew a walk and proceeded to swipe second for her 19th stolen base of the season to put two runners in scoring position for the Orange and Blue.

“…Next up, S.Fagan delivered with a two-out two-RBI double, her sixth double of the season, to bring both Gammel and Moultrie across home for the 2-0 Gator lead.

“…. With bases loaded after a Moultrie hit-by-pitch and a S. Fagan walk, a Schmalz strikeout, her second of the day, ended UF’s threat.”

Via gohuskies.com:

Vs. Oregon, April 11: 

Game 1, 4/11: Oregon 5, UW 3

Game 2, 4/11: Oregon 3, UW 6

Williams, 4/11: AB-7;R-2;H-2;RBI-1;BB-2;SO-2;PO-4;A-0;LOB-0

Game 1:

“Hayward scored the second run in the third after singling. Senior Nikia Williams (Mission Viejo, Calif.) drove her in with a double.”

Game 2:

“UW went up 1-0 in the first as Williams reached on an error and came home on a sacrifice fly by Pohlman.

“…Williams singled to third and Inglesby hit a three-run home run to left field.”

Vs. UCLA, April 13,14,and 15 

Game 1, 4/13: UCLA 7, Washington 5

Game 2, 4/14: UCLA 5, Washington 0

Game 3, 4/15: UCLA 2, Washington 5

Williams, 4/13-15: AB-9;R-2;H-4;RBI-1;BB-1;SO-2;PO-1;A-0;LOB-1

Game 1:

“The first run in the inning was a sacrifice fly to left by Inglesby as senior Nikia Williams (Mission Viejo, Calif.) scored. Williams was on third after a double and a UCLA error.”

Game 2:

“UW had four hits in the game, two each by freshman Kimberlee Souza (Waialua, Hawai’i) and senior Nikia Williams (Mission Viejo, Calif.).”

Game 3:

“Fa’asua stole second and Pohlman doubled between the 5-6 hole as Creger-Zier scored, Sophomore Victoria Hayward (Mountain View, Calif.) walked to load bases for senior Nikia Williams. Williams (Mission Viejo, Calif.) who singled to right just in front of B.B. Bates as Fa’asua scored.”

Via calbears.com:

Three Bears Make Player of the Year Top-25 List: Valerie Arioto, Jolene Henderson, Jamia Reid Candidates for Top Honor (4/11)

“BERKELEY - Valerie Arioto, Jolene Henderson and Jamia Reid of the No. 1 California softball team have the utmost honor of being named three of the 25 finalists for the 2012 USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year, the Amateur Softball Association announced Wednesday. This 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.”

Vs. Saint Mary’s, April 11

Cal 9, Saint Mary’s 0

Arioto, 4/11: Hitting: AB-4;R-1;H-1;RBI-2;BB-0;SO-1;PO-2;A-2;LOB-1

Pitching: W,17-0;IP-4.0;H-3;R-0;ER-0;BB-1;SO-6;WP-0;BK-0;HBP-0;IBB-0;AB-14;BF-15;FO-1;GO-4

“Valerie Arioto also went yard, adding a solo shot to her RBI groundout.

“…Valerie Arioto started and earned the win, giving up just three hits and one walk while striking out six.”

Vs. Arizona, April 13,14,and 15 

Game 1, 4/13: Cal 2, Arizona 0

Game 2, 4/14: Cal 3, Arizona 8

Game 3, 4/15: Cal 6, Arizona 0

Arioto, 4/13-15: Hitting: AB-6;R-3;H-2;RBI-2;BB-3;SO-1;PO-18;A-1;LOB-0

Pitching: L,17-1;IP-5.1;H-8;R-4;ER-3;BB-2;SO-6;WP-1;BK-0;HBP-1;IBB-0;AB-23;BF-27;FO-0;GO-10;NP-91

Game 1:

“Valerie Arioto broke through with a walk to lead off the bottom of the sixth. Jace Williams followed that up with a grounder back to Fowler for a single. Fowler went to throw Arioto out at second, but the ball bounded into center field, allowing Arioto to move to third.

“…Arizona catcher Lini Koria could not handle the first pitch thrown to Breana Kostreba, bringing Arioto home.” 

Game 2:

“Valerie Arioto (17-1) suffered the loss – her first of the year – after giving up three earned runs on eight hits and two walks while striking out six.”

Game 3: 

“Senior Valerie Arioto hit two homers while Frani Echavarria, Jamia Reid and Danielle Henderson all drove in a run apiece”

Via ragincajuns.com:

Vs. Florida International University, April 10 and 11: 

Game 1, 4/10: Louisiana 10, FIU 5

Game 2, 4/10: Louisiana 1, FIU 2

Game 3, 4/11: Louisiana 6, FIU 0

Orgeron, 4/10-11: AB-12;R-3;H-3;RBI-3;BB-0;SO-2;PO-5;A-0;LOB-1

Game 1:

“Christi Orgeron  blasted her team-leading 13^th homerun of the season and drove in three runs, giving her 65 RBI on the year.

“… Orgeron blasted a two-run homerun to left center, regaining the lead for Louisiana, 7-5.”

Game 2:

“Orgeron came to the plate with no outs and runners on the corners but lined out to second and Myers was doubled off first for the second out.

“…The Ragin’ Cajuns produced the first run of the game in the top of the third as Myers reached on a walk and stole second, with Orgeron stepping in. The senior knocked in another RBI lining a pitch to center field, scoring Myers for a 1-0 lead.

“…Orgeron came up to bat as the Cajuns’ final hope. Smith moved into scoring position on a wild pitch but Orgeron popped out to second to end the contest.”

Game 3:

“Louisiana used a two-out rally to score two runs in the top of the third. Myers drew a walk and Christi Orgeron singled as Haack stepped in the batter’s box with two aboard. The junior delivered with a single through the left side, plating Myers for the first run of the game. Cherry followed Haack’s single with another base hit to left field, scoring Orgeron for a 2-0 lead.”

Orgeron Named Top 25 Finalist for USA Softball POY(4/11)

“LAFAYETTE, La. — UL softball outfielder Christi Orgeron was selected as a Top 25 finalist for the 2012 USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year, which was announced by the Amateur Softball Association (ASA).
“This 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.”

Vs. Middle Tennessee State University, April 14 and 15: 

Game 1, 4/14: Louisiana 8, MTSU 0

Game 2, 4/14: Louisiana 9, MTSU 1

Game 3, 4/15: Louisiana 4, MTSU 3

Orgeron, 4/14-15: AB-3;R-3;H-3;RBI-8;BB-7;SO-0;PO-4;A-0;LOB-0

Game 1:

“Christi Orgeron blasted her fourth grand slam of the year in game one, going 3-for-3 on the day, with eight RBI, three walks and two runs scored. The grand slam gave UL their ninth of the season.

“… UL filled the bases without recording a hit in the top of the first as Natalie Fernandez walked, Nerissa Myers was plunked by a pitch and Christi Orgeron drew a free pass with just one out. Matte Haack stepped in and was robbed of a hit as second baseman Nina Dever made a diving catch and doubled off Orgeron at first to end the half inning.

“…Fernandez picked up the first hit of the game on an infield single with one out in the third. Smith followed the sophomore with a bunt single and Myers drew a walk to load the bases for Orgeron. The New Orleans, La. native lifted an 0-1 offering from Shelby Stinnett over the right field wall for a grand slam and a UL, 4-0 lead. Louisiana added their fifth run of the game on a successful double steal by Haack and Sarah Draheim for the 5-0 advantage.

“… Orgeron came to bat and smoked another double down the left field line, plating Myers for the eighth Cajuns run.”

Game 2:

“Myers and Smith completed a double steal for a 2-0 lead before Orgeron launched her second homerun of the day to left center for the 4-0 UL advantage.”

“…The Ragin’ Cajuns scored five more unearned runs in the fourth to up their lead to 9-1. The inning included three hits and three errors by Middle Tennessee and a bases loaded intentional walk to Orgeron, giving her eight RBI on the afternoon.” 

Game 3:

“Christi Orgeron did not have a plate appearance due to four base on balls.

“…Draheim tallied her second RBI of the contest on a sacrifice fly in the third inning, scoring Orgeron from third and recapturing the lead for Louisiana, 2-1. Orgeron was walked earlier in the inning and advanced to third on a double down the line from Haack to set up the RBI opportunity for the junior catcher.”