63 degrees, sunny, and a Pirate Classic softball win were in this past weekend’s forecast!
On the last day of the tournament the Pirates got the big “W” over South Carolina Gamecocks (1-0) whom they have not beaten since 2006 and Oakland (9-1, 5 innings).
Ashley Cruise, a freshman pitcher, started her first game this weekend. She made quite an impression when she led the team by pitching a shutout against South Carolina, earning “Most Valuable Pitcher” honors. After that stellar performance look for Ashley in the starting lineup for many games to come.
However, she wasn’t the only freshman who was recognized this weekend. Mary-Sloan Bradford earned herself “Most Valuable Player” for her great offensive game play throughout the weekend.
The Pirates brought their “A” game all weekend, but saved the best for the last day of the tournament. In the first game, the Pirate ladies had 9 runs on 10 hits as the ECU pounded out a win over Oakland. Keeping the energy alive, the Pirates sailed past the Gamecocks for another win.
The girls received support from Pirate fans and fellow Pirate athletes. ECU volleyball player Aileen Hnatiuck tweeted, “Congrats to our softball girls for beating South Carolina.” ECU alumnus Trent Brinkley shared his praise on twitter as well, “S/O to ECU softball, 5-1 after the Pirate Classic!” A few ECU football players and track and field athletes were also spotted at the game.
The lady Pirates season is looking like a home run , no pun intend. Well, maybe a little. The next home game will be played this Friday the 13th against Bucknell and ETSU.
