As all great pioneers once did, the Fordham softball team traveled to California last weekend, hoping to prove themselves worthy of taking on the challenges that faced them. The Rams failed in this task, however, suffering a power outage with their offense and dropping every game of the Palm Springs Classic tournament.
The Rams' most competitive game during the tournament was a 2-1 loss to Oregon State in the second game. Oregon State was able to score the two runs needed to win this game thanks to an error by junior shortstop Jessica Weckenman. Although freshman right fielder Jocelyn Dearborn hit an RBI-single to score senior third baseman Allison Twarowski in the sixth and kept the Beavers at two runs with stout defense, the Beavers were able to hold them to that one run. Oregon State's Kelly Dyer allowed just four hits over 5.1 innings.
Dearborn, a contender for Atlantic 10 Rookie of the Year, was upset with the loss, but her outlook for the remainder of her first college season remains positive.
"I get so excited for every team that we play because this is exactly what I've been dreaming of doing since I was little," she said. "And we play a lot of teams that are the best of the best. I think we have our eyes on something a little bigger for our team - A-10 champs!"
On the second day of the tournament, the Rams played their most disappointing contest, allowing Pacific to come from behind to defeat them. Fordham was able to jump out to a 4-0 lead with the help of sophomore first baseman Erin Fisher's RBI-single, junior designated hitter Mary Beth Puccio's sacrifice fly, and two errors.When Pacific tied the score, the Rams were able to take a 5-4 lead on a solo homer from Fisher.
Pacific was able to win the game in the seventh when an error helped to load the bases, which led to a two-run single. Fordham wasted a 2-3 performance by Fisher, with a homer and stolen base, and a solid pitching performance by sophomore Nicole Ayres, as she gave up two unearned runs in relief, allowing only three hits and striking out four batters.
2008 Woodie Awards
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