The Purple Knights traveled to the ECAC Fall Ball tournament for their first "real" action of the 08 Fall Ball exhibition season -- and showed great promise. They beat Lasalle to open the day with strong pitching (way to go, MegO!), sharp defense, and solid hitting; they hung tight with Franklin Pierce until that one got away; and they got nipped by a late Assumption rally -- while welcoming the freshmen, getting everybody playing time, moving folks around, and getting used to being back at it after months away! BRAVO!!

Hillary led off game 1, and her college career, with a home run over the head of the centerfielder! Welcome, rook! SMC turned a number of head's up double plays -- showing great promise in the field. Kater picked up 3 hits, 4 runs, and 3 rbi on the day, while starting in Center, making a relief appearance on the mound, and playing some shortstop. It was her first mound action in a year as her shoulder injury rehab continues -- she did what she could and got through it as a step on the path. The positive attitude that won SMC softball the NE-10 Sportsmanship award last year was evident -- this group of athletes and coaches have a great approach to the game and treat each other (and us fans) well. They are a pleasure to root for.

I took a few photos -- here are 96 of them ... :-) ... Love the sunny day -- but the light colored field surface was pretty reflective. Still, they're fun ... Enjoy.