Sophomore Harper Sullivan from Glendale, Arizona, was the star of the day as she propelled the Stonehill College softball team to a thrilling victory over Ohio University. In a doubleheader on March 13, 2025, Sullivan delivered both at the plate and on the mound, leading the Skyhawks to a 4-3 win in the second game after they lost the first 9-1.
In the first game, the Bobcats roared ahead with back-to-back doubles in the first inning, scoring two runs right off the bat. They continued to build their lead, scoring six runs in a destructive third inning, highlighted by a bases-loaded double. Despite a single from Jessica Brill that brought in a run for Stonehill, the Bobcats finished strong, ending the game in five innings with a final score of 9-1.
Game 1 Highlights:
- Bobcats mounted a quick lead with two runs in the first and six runs in the third.
- Brill and Melanie Snyder received praise, with Snyder achieving a hit in six of her last seven games.
In the second game, Sullivan shone bright again. She began with an early run for the Skyhawks and later hit a two-run double, propelling Stonehill to a 3-1 lead. Even as the Bobcats clawed back, Sullivan’s pitching saved the day. She completed the game, striking out three and allowing just three runs while contributing significantly at the plate with three RBIs.
Game 2 Highlights:
- Sullivan pitched a full game, improving her record to 1-1.
- Natalie Bottiglieri had a remarkable performance, scoring three times and leading the team with ten hits so far this season.
- Piper Hofmann’s contributions with an insurance run also proved crucial.
Stonehill’s next match is a Northeast Conference opener against Saint Francis University on March 14, 2025, as they continue a demanding 14-game road trip.
What’s Trending in Softball:
- The rise of collegiate softball has garnered attention, particularly with statistics showing a 15% increase in viewership in recent seasons, according to the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). Many fans on social media express admiration for players like Sullivan, who not only excel in batting but also showcase impressive pitching skills.
As the season unfolds, it will be exciting to see how the Skyhawks adapt and progress in their ongoing journey.