by Matt Cresto
Staff Writer
The University of La Verne’s softball team took two games from Whittier College on Saturday to complete a three-game sweep over the Poets.
The Leopards have clawed their way to the top of the SCIAC with a 4-0 record, proving to be one of the top contenders for the conference championship. Head coach Julie Kline likes her chances with the team she has this year.
“I think our potential is unlimited as long as the players continue to strive to improve,” said Kline.
The first game of the doubleheader featured a complete game tossed by junior Robin Haaker. Haaker allowed only one run on two hits, improving her record to 2-0.
La Verne jumped out on top in the second inning on a triple by freshman Sue Whitcher. She came home on a fielder’s choice later in the inning. Whittier answered in the bottom of the third with a run of its own to even out the score.
The Leopard offense exploded by hitting in four runs in the top of the sixth. Freshman Libby Ramos led off the inning with a walk. Haaker and Whitcher followed with singles. The inning was capped with a two-run single by freshman Gina Meza, and the Leopards went on to add another run in the seventh to take the first game of the the day, 6-1.
The second match-up of the day showcased the hitting dominance of La Verne. The Leopards put 15 hits on the board and brought 12 runs across the plate.
“I was happier with our efforts in the second game,” said Kline.
ULV got the scoring started in the first inning on a single by Whitcher, scoring Ramos. She reached first on a slap single and was moved into scoring position on a sacrifice bunt by freshman Amanda Stutevoss.
The Leopards jumped out with four in the third. Senior Kadie Tillema singled with one out to score Whitcher and Stutevoss, highlighting the inning.
Just like in Game 1, the Leopards rallied in the sixth to put the game away with a five-run inning. Ramos got the rally started with a single to left. Tillema followed up by smacking a two-out double, which added another run. Freshman outfielder Jackie Russo put the nail in the coffin with a one-run triple to polish off the 12-1 victory.
On the defensive side of the ball, freshman pitcher Mandy Tillema (2-0) allowed only one run on five hits, bringing the opposing team total to just three runs in four games.
Kline attributes the success of the team to a group effort. She feels that the best is yet to come for the squad.
“Everyone contributed to our success on Saturday,” said Kline. “I think that we will develop even more as we play.”
The Leopards battle Redlands today at Wheeler Park at 2 p.m.
