Game Recap vs. Lapel

In a hard fought battle, the Royals Softball team secured a 3-2 win over the Lapel Bulldogs. The game was tied 2-2 in the bottom of the seventh inning when senior Leah Paris stepped up to the plate and delivered the game-winning hit. Paris singled to drive in the winning run, clinching the Royals’ victory.

Earlier in the game, the Royals faced a tied score of 2-2 in the bottom of the fourth inning, thanks to a fielder’s choice by Madison Burlingame and a ground out by Maggie Jenkins.

“Stepping up to the plate, I knew I had a job to do,” Paris said. “I knew how important it was and I really wanted to be able to do that for my team.”

The Royals’ pitching staff was key to the victory. Starting pitcher Natavia Wright allowed 5 hits and 2 runs over 2 and 1/3 innings, striking out 1. Carly McCall came in to secure the win, throwing 4 and 2/3 innings, allowing 2 hits and no runs, while striking out 4 and walking 2.

At the plate, Addison Richmond and McCall each recorded 2 hits. Paris, Jenkins, and Burlingame all crossed the plate to score.

“When I hit the ball, I was excited for the whole team,” Paris said. “Without Addy Richmond and Sophia Feher hits, they wouldn’t have been in scoring position and I’m just grateful I got to capitalize on that.”

Coach Emily Pusti praised her team’s efforts and their growth over the course of the season.

“The players are really working hard on getting to know their teammates beyond just the jersey and being an athlete,” Pusti said. “They are figuring out what makes them the athlete they are and how to best support that.”

With the win, the Royals improve their record to 12-6 and will face Brownsburg on May 9, 2025. The team is focused on maintaining their momentum as the season progresses.

“Motivation comes from just attacking the little things each day and finding growth and improvement,” Pusti said.