The Presbyterian College softball team kicked off the 2011 season by hosting a doubleheader against Newberry College at the PC Softball Complex in Clinton, SC. Today was the first time that PC has matched up against Newberry in softball since the 2007 season in which the series was split 1-1. The Newberry Wolves would enter the doubleheader with a 3-3 record. The Blue Hose wasted little time and made quick work of the Wolves, winning the first game 7-0 and the second game by run-rule 8-0.

In the first game, the Blue Hose picked junior Leslie Hensley to matchup against Newberry’s Felicia Taylor in a pitching duel. Leslie Hensley put forth an excellent effort going 6 innings, giving 6 hits and no earned runs. Hensley allowed 1 walk, but she struck out 5 in a terrific first outing of the year. Freshman, Maggie Gilliland, closed the game for the Blue Hose giving up no hits or runs. The Wolves had a less successful performance from their ace. Newberry featured Felicia Taylor on the mound in the first game. Taylor struggled against the powerful bats of the Blue Hose lineup. She walked 5, gave up 7 hits, and had 7 earned runs.

Senior, Amanda Miller, lead the Blue Hose with 2 runs batted in. She was followed by Codee Yeske, Taylor Staten, Krysten Handy, and Rachel Hopper who all batted in 1 run. Newberry was shut out and did not score a run but they did prevent the Blue Hose from run ruling them in the first game. The Wolves first baseman Angela Cataldo played a fine defensive game earning 5 put outs which retired 5 Blue Hose.

In the second game of the doubleheader, the Wolves did not fare any better against the Blue Hose. Coach Dave Majeski gave senior Brittany Howell the starting nod in the second game in which she opposed Newberry’s, Amber Holley. Howell pitched 5 innings giving up 1 hit, 0 earned runs and only 1 walk. Howell’s performance was stunning as she mowed down the Wolves lineup one by one. Amber Holley had a far less impressive game giving up 8 runs in less than 5 innings. Because the Wolves did not score, the mercy rule took effect and the game was called after the 8th run scored by the Blue Hose. Holley pitched 4.2 innings and gave up 8 hits, 8 runs, and 5 earned runs.

The Blue Hose were more dominant in the second game in which they clearly displayed their superior hitting skills. Krysten Handy and Mary Ellen Morris lead the Blue Hose with 2 runs batted in apiece. They were supported by Leslie Hensley, Codee Yeske, and Amanda Miller who batted in a run apiece. Once again Newberry was held scoreless.

The Blue Hose are off to an exciting start after picking up two quick wins over the Newberry Wolves. The team has a solid combination of veteran experience mixed in with raw talent from the youth of the team. The new-look softball team was impressive in its season opener. After today’s victories, fans can be sure to expect a thrilling season!