Pitman, N.J. (3/29/25) – In their opening games of the NJAC season, #4 Rowan University handed the Kean University Cougars a tough doubleheader sweep.

Game One: Rowan 5, Kean 4
The Cougars started strong, scoring two runs in the fourth inning. Maya Thompson hit an RBI double, and Kiley Petak followed with an RBI single. Kean extended their lead in the sixth when Gina Mahlik’s double brought home Thompson.
However, Rowan responded swiftly. In the same inning, they surged ahead with four runs, taking the lead after tying the game earlier with a wild pitch and runs from a triple and a single.
In the seventh, the Cougars fought back, with Andee Perseponko tying the score with an RBI single. They seemed to have scored a go-ahead run, but it was called back due to a runner leaving early. The Profs capitalized in the eighth, bringing in the winning run with a clutch RBI single.
Key Stats: Thompson and Mahlik each had two hits, with both earning a double.
Game Two: Rowan 5, Kean 2
The second game saw the Cougars trailing 2-0. Maya Thompson swung for the fences, hitting a solo homer in the fourth that cut the deficit. Bella Truelove then tied the game with an RBI single in the fifth.
Yet Rowan regained control, scoring three more times in that same inning. An RBI double, a sacrifice fly, and an infield hit secured the win for the Profs.
Key Stats: McKenzie Melvin stood out in the second game, recording multiple hits.
What’s Next
Kean is set to host New Jersey City University on Tuesday.
Additional Insights
This early season matchup showcases the resilience and competitive spirit of both teams within the NJAC conference. Historically, Kean has faced off against Rowan multiple times, often resulting in close contests. For example, their last meeting saw the Cougars pulling off a narrow win, highlighting the intense rivalry.
With women’s collegiate softball growing in popularity, statistics from the NCAA reveal that participation rates have surged by 37% over the past decade. This trend suggests a bright future for the sport and hints at increasing competitiveness in conferences like NJAC.
As fans and players refer to social media for real-time updates, reactions tend to flood in. Comments often praise standout performances while speculating on future games. The debate on player calls, like the controversial early leave, continues to spark discussions among die-hard fans on platforms like Twitter.
For more insights into women’s collegiate sports and event schedules, check out the NCAA website.
Check out this related article: Thrilling Highlights from the Pirates’ 11th Annual Bill Carson Invitational at East Carolina University Athletics
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