Tag Archive for: High School softball

BENSON’S RECORD SETTING BOMB DOES IT FOR LOUISVILLE

YOUNGSTOWN OH- Matti Benson drove in four runs on two hits to lead Louisville past Ursuline 10-0 on Tuesday. Benson doubled in the fourth inning, scoring two runs, and hit a home run to center field in the fifth inning, scoring two. Her home run in the top of the 5th gave her the program record for career runs scored, and tied the career HR record at Louisville.  She already holds the program record for home runs in a season.

Louisville won thanks in part to six runs in the fourth inning. Bailee Griffith singled, scoring one run, Lilly Ditz induced Leah Claugus to hit into a fielder’s choice, but one run scored, Brooke Haren singled, scoring one run, Kaitlin Twinem singled, scoring one run, and Benson doubled, scoring two runs.

Four more Leopards runs crossed the plate in the fifth inning to extend the lead to 10-0. Claugus singled, scoring one run, Haren singled, scoring one run, and Benson homered to center field, scoring two runs.

Taylor Schneider earned the win for Louisville. The starting pitcher gave up two hits and zero runs over five innings, striking out three and walking none. Ditz led things off in the circle for Ursuline Varsity Irish. The right-handed pitcher allowed 11 hits and six runs over three and one-third innings, striking out none and walking none.

Louisville piled up 15 hits in the game. Haren, the number nine hitter, led the team with three hits in three at-bats. Kenzi Denzer, Twinem, and Griffith each collected multiple hits. The Leopards  turned one double play in the game.

Brooke O’palick and Brooke Burton each collected one hit for the Irish. They also  turned one double play in the game.

Game Photos HERE: https://ysn.smugmug.com/4-9-sb-louisville-ursuline/4-9-sb-louisville-ursuline/106EOS1D

PIRATES SAIL PAST WARRIORS

Story by Larry Jennings

Perry, Ohio- In a tough early season softball game for Edgewood the Warriors fell to the Perry Pirates. The Perry Pirates managed to secure a 9-5 victory over the Edgewood Warriors, despite being out-hit by their opponents. The Warriors squad collected a commendable nine hits compared to Perry’s six, but it was the Pirates who capitalized on crucial opportunities, sealing their triumph.

The game’s narrative unfolded swiftly in the early innings, with Perry making their intentions clear right from the onset. Callie Thompson’s grounded out play in the first inning set the tone, putting Perry on the scoreboard early on. As the game progressed, Emma Brainard’s contribution in the second inning extended Perry’s lead to two.

However, it was in the third inning where Perry showcased their offensive prowess, effectively widening the gap. Elise Strahan’s strategic play after tagging up, coupled with Morgan Winters’ powerful double that brought in two runs, and Emma Brainard’s clutch single, added to Perry’s dominance.

Madeline Rupert’s performance on the mound was instrumental in Perry’s victory. Despite conceding eight hits and four runs (three earned) over four and one-third innings, Rupert’s strategic pitching, which included three strikeouts and two walks, ultimately earned her the win.

On the flip side, Lucianna Paolillo took the mound for the Warriors, battling through seven innings. Despite her efforts, surrendering nine runs (seven earned) on six hits, while striking out two and walking five, led to her taking the loss.

For Edgewood, Mackenna Rhodes emerged as a standout performer, driving the middle of the lineup with two crucial runs batted in. Rhodes’ two-for-four performance at the plate injected some momentum into Edgewood’s offense. Juliana Gregory also contributed significantly, collecting two hits in three at-bats.

On Perry’s side, Morgan Winters shone bright, going two-for-four at the plate and leading the team with three runs batted in. Perry’s disciplined approach at the plate, accumulating five walks throughout the game, proved to be a key factor in their victory. Sidney Collins and Callie Thompson notably stood out, each drawing two bases on balls.

With this loss behind them, Edgewood now sets their sights on their next challenge, a game at Conneaut scheduled for Wednesday. As they regroup and refocus, the Warriors will undoubtedly look to bounce back from this defeat and showcase their resilience in the upcoming matchups.

ST JOHN RALLIES PAST RED DEVILS

Ashtabula, OH- In a thrilling showdown on Monday, the St. John Heralds emerged victorious over the Lordstown Red Devils with a final score of 9-6. Leading the charge was the unstoppable Rylee Frasure, who went a perfect 3-for-3 at the plate, showcasing her prowess with a double in the third inning and singles in the first and fourth innings.

The Heralds wasted no time getting on the scoreboard, with Isabelle Stern’s triple in the first inning driving in a crucial run. However, Lordstown swiftly responded, seizing a 3-1 lead in the second inning courtesy of Folesler’s timely single and an error.

Despite Lordstown extending their lead to 4-1 in the third inning with Livkwar’s single, the resilient Heralds staged a remarkable comeback in the fourth inning. Frasure’s single coupled with a defensive error allowed St. John to reclaim the lead.

The game remained tense as Berry’s triple for Lordstown tied the score at five in the fifth inning, but Debernardo’s double propelled them ahead 6-5 in the sixth. However, the Fighting Herald spirit prevailed in the bottom of the sixth, with Stern’s single driving in two crucial runs, followed by Caitlyn Carney’s single adding another run to the tally.

Pitcher Isabelle Holler showcased her talent, earning the win after a solid performance, while Alyssa Cevera secured the save for St. John. Our team’s offense was firing on all cylinders, collecting an impressive 12 hits, with Stern and Frasure leading the charge, each securing three hits and contributing significantly to our victory.

With eyes set on the next challenge, the Heralds look forward to their upcoming game against Chalker on Tuesday, poised to carry forward the momentum from this hard-fought win.

LIPPIATT LEAVES A LASTING LEGACY

HANOVERTON OH- When talking about high school athletics, certain players leave an indelible mark on their program, becoming synonymous with excellence and leadership. Among these luminaries stands United senior Sam Lippiatt, whose impact over the last four seasons transcends mere statistics, embodying the essence of a true team player and leader.

On the diamond, Lippiatt’s prowess is undeniable. With a remarkable ability to consistently reach base and cross home plate with tenacity, she has become a cornerstone of the United Eagles’ offensive strategy. Her keen eye for the game and strategic baserunning have propelled her to the top, earning her the distinction of holding the school record for runs scored in a career—an achievement that speaks volumes about her dedication and skill.

However, Lippiatt’s contributions extend far beyond the box score. Her presence in the locker room and on the field is a testament to her unwavering commitment to her teammates and the program as a whole. As a beacon of positivity and determination, she has inspired her fellow players to strive for greatness and to embrace the values of hard work and perseverance.Central to Lippiatt’s journey has been the unwavering support of the coaching staff at United. Throughout her tenure, they have nurtured her talents, pushing her beyond her perceived limitations and instilling in her the belief that she can achieve greatness. Their faith in her abilities has fueled her drive to excel, propelling her towards her ultimate dream of playing softball at the collegiate level.

Indeed, Lippiatt’s dedication has borne fruit, as she recently committed to continue her softball career at Lake Erie College—a testament to her unwavering determination and the culmination of years of hard work and sacrifice. Her journey from high school standout to collegiate athlete is a testament to her resilience and unwavering commitment to her craft.

As Lippiatt prepares to embark on the next chapter of her softball journey, her legacy at United will endure for years to come. Her impact on the program transcends wins and losses, serving as a source of inspiration for future generations of Eagles. With her indomitable spirit and tireless work ethic, Sam Lippiatt has left an indelible mark on the United softball program—one that will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.

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EAGLES SHINE THE BRIGHTEST ON THE BIG STAGE

YOUNGSTOWN OH- United felt at home in the big stage of YSU Softball Complex and won big over Lowellville 27-5 on Monday.

United got on the board in the top of the first inning after Chloe Angelo doubled, scoring two runs, Grace Coffee grounded out, scoring one run, an error scored one run, and Kendall Erb singled, scoring one run. The Eagles scored five runs on two hits in the top of the second inning. Coffee singled, scoring two runs, Madelynn Lucas singled, scoring one run, and an error scored two runs. They added one run in the third. Coffee doubled on an 0-2 count, making the score 11-5.

United then scored 10 runs on nine hits in the top of the fourth inning. Joshlynn Irey drew a walk, scoring one run, Samantha Lippiatt homered to left field, scoring three runs, Coffee tripled, scoring one run, Lucas singled, scoring one run, Matilyn Zines doubled, scoring one run, Erb singled, scoring two runs, and Brinsley Hiscox tripled, scoring one run.

United wasn’t done after all of that they scored six runs on five hits in the top of the fifth inning. Angelo doubled, scoring one run, Zines singled, scoring one run, Brittany Miller singled, scoring one run, Hiscox doubled, scoring two runs, and Kiley Hetherington grounded out, scoring one run.

Zines earned the win for United in the circle. The right-handed pitcher gave up one hit and five runs (one earned) over five innings, striking out nine and walking one.

The Eagles amassed 21 hits in the game. Coffee provided pop in the middle of the lineup, and led with five runs batted in. The cleanup hitter went 3-for-5 on the day. Coffee, Hiscox, and Angelo each collected three hits. Lippiatt, Lucas, Zines, Erb, and Miller each collected multiple hits. Lippiatt led United with two walks. Overall, the team had a strong eye at the plate, tallying six walks for the game. Irey stole two bases.

Laila Rivera drove the middle of the lineup, leading Lowellville with two runs batted in. Sophia Alfano went 1-for-3 at the plate to lead in hits.

Game Photos HERE: https://ysn.smugmug.com/4-8-sb-united-loweville/4-8-sb-unites-lowville/106EOS1D

LIBERTY’S OFFENSE HELPS THEM STAY PERFECT IN THE MVAC

BROOKFIELD OH- Mia Parker collected four hits in four at bats, as Liberty defeated Brookfield in an offensive marathon 13-8 on Monday. Parker tripled in the fifth inning, singled in the second inning, singled in the fourth inning, and singled in the seventh inning.

Liberty jumped out to the lead in the top of the first inning after Rachel Strohmeyer drew a walk, scoring one run, and Brooklyn Ciminero singled, scoring two runs. Brookfield tied the game in the bottom of the third thanks to a double by Madison Obermiyer, and a single by Keilani Malufau. In the top of the fourth, the Leopards broke up the tie when Strohmeyer singled, scoring two runs. Then a double by Ciminero followed to extend the lead to 6-3.

The Warriors tied the game yet again in the bottom of the fourth thanks to a hit by a pitch, a single by Arianna Jones, and a ground out by Obermiyer. Liberty took the lead right back in the top of the fifth inning after Parker tripled, Sarah Spisak doubled, and Chloe Fleps doubled, each scoring one run.

Fleps stepped in the circle first for Liberty. The starting pitcher allowed 10 hits and eight runs over seven innings, striking out seven and walking five. Obermiyer stepped in the circle first for Brookfield. The starting pitcher allowed 18 hits and 11 runs over six innings, striking out seven and walking three.

Liberty tallied 19 hits in the game. Strohmeyer drove the middle of the lineup, leading with four runs batted in. The shortstop went 1-for-4 on the day. Fleps, Sara Horn, Ciminero, Bella Hernandez, and Spisak each collected multiple hits. Fleps led with two walks. Overall, the team had a strong eye at the plate, accumulating five walks for the game. Liberty also turned one double play in the game.

Brookfield amassed 10 hits in the game. Jones and Malufau each collected two hits. Obermiyer and Jones were tough to handle back-to-back in the lineup, as each drove in two runs. The Warriors worked the count all day, accumulating five walks. They were sure-handed in the field and didn’t commit a single error. Jones had the most chances in the field with eight.

WEST BRANCH TAKES THE LUCK OUT OF THE IRISH

BELOIT OH- West Branch got back to work on Sunday annd easily dispatched Ursuline on Sunday, 10-1. A single by Katie Koulianos put Ursuline on the board in the top of the first West Branch captured the lead, 3-1, in the bottom of the first when Mati Hawk singled, scoring two runs, and a wild pitch scored one run.

West Branch added to their early lead in the bottom of the second inning after Josie Milliken scored after tagging up, and Sara Schmidt doubled, each scoring one run.

Ellie Tucker earned the win for West Branch. They surrendered seven hits and one run over seven innings, striking out three and walking one. Bella Zamaria took the loss for Ursuline. The right-handed pitcher went three innings, surrendering five runs on five hits, striking out four and walking none. Lilly Ditz started in the circle for the Irish. The right-handed pitcher gave up nine hits and five runs over three innings, striking out two and walking one.

The Warriors tallied 14 hits in the game. Schmidt and Milliken each collected three hits. Schmidt and Addi Craven were tough to handle back-to-back in the lineup, as each drove in three runs. Hawk and Tucker each collected multiple hits. Tucker stole two bases. West Branch turned one double play in the game.

Koulianos went 2-for-3 at the plate as the 3-hole hitter led the team with one run batted in. The Irish turned one double play in the game.

BLUE DEVILS BATS TAKE CENTER STAGE

By Matt Maher


POLAND, OH – The Blue Devils had that dawg in them Sunday evening at Poland where they took down the Liberty Leopards 15-3. The Devils showed up and took down an already tired Leopards team with the combination of great pitching and superb offense.

 

The Leopards started Chloe Fleps for the second straight game of the day and it went about the same as the first game against Poland. In 3 IP she gave up 13 runs on 9 hits while also finding her first K of the day. Her offense had its struggles against the McDonald pitching with only 3 runs scored against the Blue Devils, all of which came in the 3rd thanks to an RBI single from Strohmayer followed by a 2-run single from Ciminero. 

 

The Blue Devils came out swinging with a huge 7 run first against the Leopards that spanned all 9 batters and allowed the leadoff batter, Titus, to bat twice. The 2nd inning found 4 more runs that were highlighted by a 2-run triple from Evans! The Blue Devils scored 2 more in the 3rd and then 1 in the 4th and 5th. McCombs started off the game in the circle for McDonald and threw 2 shutout innings until the Leopards found their offense in the 3rd and caused McCombs to get a little shaky. Mancini came in in the 4th and shut  down the leopards the rest of the way.

 

The day was lost for Liberty as they dropped both games in Poland. McDonald started things off on a high and look to keep it going when they face Poland at 5PM on Sunday April 7th.

MCDONALD SWEEPS THEIR SUNDAY SLATE

By Matt Maher


POLAND, OH – The Blue Devils showed off their skill Sunday night when they took down the mighty Bulldogs 7-1. Both teams showed some stellar pitching early but it would be O’Brien for McDonald who would stand the test of time and throw the impressive complete game win!

 

Poland went with Olivia Horn in the circle for this one and through the first 3 she threw a shutout, racking up 4 Ks in the process but things changed in the 4th and she gave up 4 runs off of 3 hits, 3 walks and a sac fly and allowed the entire order to go through once. Horn would calm down come the 5th with only 2 runs given up with another strikeout earned and the 5th would only see 1 more run come in. Addison Draa finished the game with 1 hit and 1K in 1IP. The Bulldogs offense couldn’t score until the 5th when Mary Brant brought home Leanna Boccieri. 

 

The Blue Devils started O’Brien who threw a gem of a game. Only 1 run allowed off of just 5 hits and 14Ks were the highlights for her evening. Her offense scored an impressive 7 runs with 4 coming in the 4th off of an RBI double, sac fly, and a 2-run RBI single. The 5th came from a beautiful blast from Evan’s who brought in 2 with a double and the 7th came in the 6th thanks to an O’Leary RBI single. 

 

The Blue Devils showed everyone that they shouldn’t be taken lightly and can do damage in and out of the MVAC. Poland played well but their pitching just couldn’t keep up with the McDonald bats in the end. McDonald (2-0) will stay on the road when they travel to Springfield on April 9th at 5:00PM while Poland (3-2) will be in Girard on April 9th to take on the Indians at 5:00PM. 

POLAND HEATS UP AFTER LENGTHY LAY OFF

By Matt Maher 


POLAND, OH – After almost a week off, the Bulldogs and the Leopards took to the diamond to finally play some softball! While the feeling of being out on the field must have been great, the feelings in both dugouts weren’t the same. The Leopards, who were 2-0 going into this game, dropped this one 13-0 against the extremely happy Bulldogs who took out some frustrations after a disappointing 11-1 loss the other day.

 

Liberty struggled to get runners on base with their first hit coming late in the 2nd inning with a single to left by Meadow Smith. The Leopards managed to muster another hit against the Bulldogs as well as a walk. On the mound Chloe Fleps went 2 Innings with 2 fly outs, 3 groundouts and a line out but struggled giving up 8 runs off of 5 hits. Rachael Stromeyer came in for relief in the 3rd inning and finished out the game with 1 K and 5 runs off of 7 Hits.

 

The Bulldogs, on the other hand, looked ready to roll. With 6 runs off 11 batters who collectively found 3 hits in the 1st. The Bulldogs found their next 2 in the 2nd off of 2 hits with 3 more runs coming in the 3rd off of 3 hits and finally 2 more runs in the 4th with the 3 more hits. Olivia Horn started in the circle and struck out 4, walked 1 and gave up 1 hit and 0 runs in 2IP. Addison Draa came in for relief in the 3rd and shined. Striking out 4, and only giving up 1 hit in 3IP, she had no problem taking control of this game.

 

The Leopards (2-1)  play again at 3PM on Sunday April 7th when they take on MVAC opponent the McDonald Blue Devils (0-0).