ELON, N.C. – The Elon University softball team clinched a 5-1 victory against the College of Charleston, thanks to an impressive performance from sophomore pitcher Anna Dew, who set a personal record with six strikeouts on Sunday, April 6. This win marked the Phoenix’s third consecutive series sweep and extended their home winning streak to 11 games, keeping them tied for first place in the CAA standings alongside Campbell.
In the Circle
Dew had a stellar outing. In her complete game, she allowed just four hits and walked one batter. This weekend, she notched her second victory, highlighting her growing prowess on the mound. Her performance shows how she’s evolving as a key player for the team, especially as the competition heats up.
At the Plate
Elon’s offense was solid, with six hits throughout the game. Greta Hessenthaler and Lani Wyrick led the charge, each going 2-of-3 at the plate. Hessenthaler recorded two runs batted in (RBIs) and even hit her third triple of the season. Remarkably, she has reached base in 33 consecutive games, showcasing her consistency this year.
Game Highlights
Elon aimed to score early. In the first inning, Hessenthaler’s leadoff triple put them in a promising position, but they couldn’t capitalize. The Cougars struck first with a run in the second inning, taking a 1-0 lead. However, the Phoenix responded effectively. A three-run second inning changed the game’s momentum. Following back-to-back on-base actions, Hessenthaler hit a critical single that allowed two runners to score, changing the score to 3-1 in favor of the Phoenix.
Later, in the sixth inning, the Phoenix added two more runs for a comfortable 5-1 lead, with contributions from both Fitzpatrick and Wilson. Dew closed out the game by retiring the Cougars in order during the final inning.
Looking Ahead
Next, the Phoenix will be facing Drexel from April 11-13 in their next CAA series, a match that will further test their skills and strategy.
In recent years, women’s sports, including softball, have seen a significant rise in attendance and participation. According to a 2022 report by Statista, women’s college softball attendance reached record highs, reflecting the growing popularity of the sport. As more fans engage, teams like Elon are stepping up their game, making this an exciting time for followers and players alike.
As the season progresses, the Phoenix’s blend of skilled gameplay and community support will be vital for their success. It’s clear that with players like Dew and Hessenthaler, the future looks bright for Elon softball.
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