Benicia Sandy Shotwell Tournament: July 15-16, 2006
Posted by fy on Jul 18 2006 | Tagged as: 10 Gold
10-Gold reaches the quarterfinals …
Saturday July 15, 2006
Pleasant Hill Panthers 3, Sting 10-Gold 0
Sting’s crisp defense held the Panthers to only three runs. First-baser Cassidy Villeneuve caught balls as though her glove was magnetic, making many key outs with assistance by third-baser Jordan Baker and second-baser Grace Duncan. Pitcher Cory Labov fanned eight Panther batters, keeping the opposition scoreless in the final three innings.
Benicia Outlaws 5, Sting 10-Gold 1
In a well-pitched game by Jordan Baker, 10-Gold faced the tough home team. Sharp singles by Meg McCabe and Cory Labov advanced Grace Duncan around the bases to make the sole run for Sting.
Sting 10-Gold 10, Oakland Vipers 9
Sammie Chiang’s consistent pitching struck out Vipers during the first two innings. Meanwhile, Sting’s offense wore down three different pitchers. Smart at-bat’s and alert base running were demonstrated by Josephine Hass, Sophia Emmons-Bell and Lee Labov, who all scored.
Sunday July 16, 2006
Sting 10-Gold 7, LaMorinda Menace 1
Braving a second day of near triple-digit weather, 10-Gold refused to melt down on the field. Erin Hoynes and Maggie Gallagher played smart, patient offense. Timely singles were hit by Villeneuve and McCabe, who also doubled in the second inning to drive in two more runs. First-baser Veronica Timpane caught a pop fly and a line drive to make two unassisted outs in the final inning.
Concord Glory 1, Sting 10-Gold 0 (Quarterfinals)
During this third face-off of the summer, 10-Gold’s tight playing turned this game into an amazingly close contest. A hit by Emmons-Bell as well as stolen bases by the fleet Gallagher, Hoynes and Labov almost allowed 10-Gold to score, but the chances were squelched by the opposition’s tough pitching. Unfortunately, another scoring opportunity vanished when Baker’s hit to deep left was caught backhanded by a running centerfielder. Defensive highlights included a stellar performance by Villeneuve at first base and second-baser Duncan catching a high-hopping ball and running to put out the runner at first.
*****
By this sweltering end to the season, 10-Gold demonstrated how much their skills had improved. In addition to base-running, bunting and smart at-bat’s, they showed how to cover steals and make good plays. They learned about playing through challenges and supporting each other. Good cheers and Gatorade were had by all. Many thanks to Coach Sarah and Coach Gavin for their positive, patient guidance; Team Manager Chris for his unflappable uber-organization, and to all the families who made this summer possible. A twenty-one softball salute to you all! See you in the fields …