Wilmington University Spring Sports News 2018 BB and SFTBL

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SUBJECT: Baseball Starts 2018 Ranked No. 8 in NCBWA East Region Poll; Three Wildcats Named Preseason All-Region

DATE: January 26, 2018
djl

NEWARK, Del. - - Heading into the 2018 season, the Wilmington University baseball team will be ranked eighth in the East Region as the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association (NCBWA) announces the 2018 Preseason Poll and All-Region Teams.

The Wildcats finished 30-21 last year and 10th in the final NCBWA East Region Poll of 2017. They garnered 33 points and sit in eight place to start the 2018 season. Reigning East Region champion and NCAA Division II National Tournament participant St. Thomas Aquinas (N.Y.) earned eight first place votes and 89 total points to claim the top spot.

Southern New Hampshire earned the final first place vote and finished second with 82 total points. Reigning NE10 Tournament Champion New Haven earned the third spot with 70 points.

Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference foe Felician is ranked fourth with 53 points while LIU Post takes fifth with 48 points. Franklin Pierce starts a close group in sixth with 38 points while Le Moyne is seventh with 34 points. Wilmington follows the Dolphins with 33 points while Southern Connecticut State is ninth with 31 points. Pace rounds out the Preseason Top 10 with 10 points.

The NCBWA also released the 2018 Preseason All-East Region Team and the Wildcats were represented with three student-athletes.

Reigning All-Region and First Team All-CACC pitcher Sean Deely is the lone representative on the First Team while Second Team All-CACC first baseman Kendall Small and Second Team All-CACC reliever Dan Hyatt earned spots on the Second Team Preseason All-Region Team.

The Wildcats schedule again begins with a trip to Myrtle Beach on the weekend of February 23-25. The Wildcats will square off against four regionally ranked opponents throughout the weekend, including No. 3 New Haven, No. 5 LIU Post, No. 7. Le Moyne, and No. 9 Southern Connecticut State.

AGATE:

2018 NCBWA Preseason All-East Region Teams

First Team:

C: Andrew Jaehnig, Sr., Assumption, Quincy, Mass.
1B: Angelo Navetta, Sr., Molloy, Staten Island, N.Y.
2B: Justin Decker, Jr., Dominican (N.Y.), Rotterdam, N.Y.
3B: Jack Zagaja, Grad., New Haven. Merrick, N.Y.
SS: Joseph Pena, Sr., St. Thomas Aquinas, Brooklyn, N.Y.
OF: Rob Andreoli, Sr., LIU Post. North Wantagh, N.Y.
OF: Giovanni Dingcong, Sr., St. Thomas Aquinas, Daly City, Calif.
OF: Matt Diesel. Sr., Felician, Massapequa Park, N.Y.
DH: Ryan Sullivan, Sr., So. New Hampshire, Hopkinton, Mass.
Util: Jason Polgano, Sr., Felician, Bronx, N.Y.
SP: Sean Deely, Jr., Wilmington (Del.), Wilmington, Del.
SP: Frankie Moscatiello, Sr., St. Thomas Aquinas, Rocky Point, N.Y.
SP: David Palmer, Sr., New Haven, East Islip, N.Y.
RP: Josiah Gray, Jr., LeMoyne, New Rochelle, N.Y.

Second Team:

C: Stephen Octave, Sr., Franklin Pierce, New Windsor, N.Y.
1B: Kendall Small, Jr., Wilmington (Del.), Dover, Del.
2B: Steven Withers, Sr., Adelphi, Staten Island, N.Y.
3B: John Friday, Sr. Franklin Pierce, Southborough, Mass.
SS: Bruce Strickland, Sr., Felician, Hazlet, N.J.
OF: Michael Gulino, Sr., Pace, Meriden, Conn.
OF: Nick Lamberti, Jr.., So. Conn. State, East Haven, Conn.
OF: Caleb Potter, Sr., So. New Hampshire, Mentor, Ohio
DH: Don Walsh, Sr., Post, Hamilton, N.J.
Util: Anthony Shkrelja, Sr., St. Thomas Aquinas, Bedford Hills, N.Y.
SP: John Amendola, Sr., Franklin Pierce, Wallingford, Conn.
SP: Chris Cepeda, Jr., St. Thomas Aquinas, Pt. Jeff. Station, N.Y.
SP: Mitchell Powers, Sr., So. New Hampshire, Portland, Maine
RP: Dan Hyatt, Jr. Wilmington (Del.), Newark, Del.

 

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SUBJECT: Wilmington Tabbed Atop South Division in 2018 CACC Baseball Preseason Coaches Poll

DATE: February 1, 2018
djl

NEW HAVEN, Conn. - - The Wilmington University baseball team is one again expected to be in the mix in the Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference this upcoming season, earning seven first place votes to take the top spot in the CACC South Division in the 2018 CACC Preseason Coaches Poll.

The Wildcats are coming off their sixth 30-win season in the past seven years, going 30-21 overall last year. They earned the second seed for the CACC Tournament with a 17-5 conference record, being one of four teams to advance to the double elimination portion of the tournament.

The CACC is returning to two divisions for the 2018 season, with the Wildcats earning the top spot over reigning CACC Regular Season Champion Felician. Wilmington earned seven first place votes and 67 total points. Felician took the remaining five first place votes in the South for 65 total points. The Golden falcons earned an at-large bid into the NCAA Division II East Regional Tournament a season ago.

Chestnut Hill earned 48 points after reaching the CACC Tournament Championship game last year. Jefferson rounds out the expected playoff participants from the South Division with 33 points and in fourth place. Goldey-Beacom earned 23 points while University of the Sciences rounds out the South Division with 16 points.

Reigning CACC Tournament Champion Dominican is slated to once again rule the North Division in 2018, claiming nine first place votes for 69 total points. Post took the remaining two first place votes for 60 points and sits in second.

Bloomfield and Nyack are tied for third with 39 points each, rounding out the expected participants in the CACC Tournament from the North Division. Concordia earned 25 points for fifth while Caldwell rounds out the division with 20 points.

The Wildcats return three All-CACC members from a season ago, anchored by First Team All-CACC pitcher Sean Deely. First baseman Kendall Small, starting pitcher Chuck Delagol, and reliever Dan Hyatt all earned Second Team All-CACC honors last year.

The top four teams from each division advance to a single-elimination play-in game with the four winners moving on to the double elimination portion of the CACC Tournament. The 2018 CACC Tournament will once again be hosted by Post University in Waterbury, Conn.

AGATE:

2018 CACC Baseball Preseason Coaches Poll

North Division
1. Dominican College 69 (9)
2. Post University 60 (2)
T3. Bloomfield College 39
T3. Nyack College 39
5. Concordia College 25
6. Caldwell University 20 (1)

South Division
1. Wilmington University 67 (7)
2. Felician University 65 (5)
3. Chestnut Hill College 48
4. Jefferson 33
5. Goldey-Beacom College 23
6. University of the Sciences 16

 

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SUBJECT: Wilmington Slotted Second in 2018 CACC Softball Preseason Coaches Poll

DATE: February 2, 2018
djl

NEW HAVEN, Conn. - - Coming off a season in which the team went farther into the postseason than any other year, the Wilmington University softball team earned two first place votes and 176 total points to sit in second place in the 2018 Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference Softball Preseason Coaches Poll.

The Wildcats are coming off a 36-21 season, finishing 17-9 and in fourth place in the CACC. For the fourth year in a row, the Wildcats earned a spot into the NCAA Division II East Regional Tournament, winning two games for the first time in program history.

In a vote of the league’s head coaches, the Wildcats earned two first place votes and 176 total points to finish behind only the reigning CACC Tournament Champion and fellow NCAA Division II East Regional Tournament participant Caldwell. The Cougars earned 11 first place votes and 193 to sit atop the preseason poll.

Dominican picked up the final first place vote and earned 168 total points to place third overall. Jefferson earned 128 points for fourth while Holy Family earne 126 points for fifth. Post (114 points), Felician (100 points), and Goldey-Beacom (91), round out the top eight teams that are expected to advance to the 2018 CACC Tournament.

The rest of the 2018 CACC Preseason Coaches Poll finds Chestnut Hill (89 points) in ninth, Bloomfield (84 points) in 10th, and Georgian Court (71 points) in 11th. USciences (58 points), Concordia (44 points), and Nyack (27 points) round out rest of the preseason poll.

The Wildcats return three All-CACC performers from a season year, led by leftfielder Rosa’Lynn Burton and starting pitcher Caitlyn Whiteside who were named First Team. Second baseman Jazmeen Llamas also earned Second Team All-CACC honors for the second year in row. Burton was also a Second Team NFCA All-American as a freshman last season.

The goal is to be one of the top eight teams at the end of the regular season to advance to the CACC Tournament hosted by Georgian Court University in Lakewood, N.J., starting on May 3.

AGATE:

2018 CACC Softball Preseason Coaches Poll

1. Caldwell University 193 (11)
2. Wilmington University 176 (2)
3. Dominican College 169 (1)
4. Jefferson 128
5. Holy Family University 126
6. Post University 114
7. Felician University 100
8. Goldey-Beacom College 91
9. Chestnut Hill College 89
10. Bloomfield College 84
11. Georgian Court University 71
12. University of the Sciences 58
13. Concordia College 44
14. Nyack College 27

 

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SUBJECT: Newcomers Shine in Opening Games But Wilmington Softball Drops Pair to Start 2018 Season

DATE: February 16, 2018
djl

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. - - The newcomers stole the show in the first two games of the 2018 season, but the Wilmington University softball team dropped both games on Friday, first to Merrimack, 3-2 (8 innings), and then to Le Moyne, 10-3, to kick off the Snowbird Softball Freeze Out Tournament.

Freshman Makayla McCarthy led the team at the by going 3-for-7 in her collegiate debut while junior transfer Kiana Broderson-Jones batted 3-for-8 with a double. Freshman Lauren Lopez hit the lone home run of the day for the Wildcats (0-2), going 2-for-8 on the day with two extra base hits and a team high two RBI.

The opener featured a seventh inning comeback for the Wildcats, but Merrimack (1-0) was able to take the game with the international tiebreaker in the eighth.

The Warriors jumped out to a 2-0 lead in the bottom of the first inning, getting two unearned sacrifice flies with runners on second and third with no outs. Caitlyn Whiteside settled in from there, only allowing five hits without issuing a walk in the game.

The Wildcats’ offense didn’t get rolling until the sixth inning when Broderson-Jones led off the inning with a double in front of the left fielder. Freshman pinch hitter delivered a single in her first collegiate at-bat, putting runners on second and third with no outs. Makayla McCarthy picked up her first collegiate RBI with a one out single through the left side, but too hard to only score one run. Merrimack picked up two strikeouts to escape further damage, however.

Senior Keara McCarthy started the top of the seventh with a one out single just over the head of the shortstop. A one-out sac bunt put the game tying run into scoring position for the top of the order. Broderson-Jones came through with a single into left field, scoring McCarthy to tie the game without a throw.

The teams went into the international tiebreaker but the Wildcats couldn’t take advantage of a runner on third and no outs. The Warriors came up to bat in the bottom half, saw two pitches, and laid down two bunts to end the game, 3-2.

Broderson-Jones went 3-for-4 with an RBI while Jordan Virden, Lauren Lopez, and Makayla McCarthy all picked up their first collegiate hits.

Wilmington struck first against Le Moyne in the nightcap, using an error on a sacrifice bunt to score Mirabella Klebart form first base.

The score remained 1-0 until the Dolphins (2-0) scored five runs on three hits and one Wildcat error in the fifth inning. The Wildcats cut the deficit in half in the bottom f the fifth as Lopez launched a two-run bomb to left to bring the score to 5-3. But the Dolphins struck again with five more runs in the top of the six, using two hits and two Wilmington errors to keep the inning alive.

The Wildcats did not have an answer after the top of the sixth.

Makayla McCarthy led the team by going 2-of-3 at the plate. Rosa’Lynn Burton, Lopez, Klebart, and Alyssa Velasquez all had single hits to fill out the team’s six total.

The Wildcats return to action on Saturday with two more games during the Snowbird Softball Freeze Out. They will face a pair of PSAC foes starting with Slippery Rock at 10 a.m. before facing Kutztown at 12:00 p.m.

 

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SUBJECT: Three Student-Athletes Featured in This Week’s CACC Weekly Reports

DATE: February 19, 2018
djl

NEW HAVEN, Conn. - - The beginning of the winter-spring crossover season has produced three Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference Players of the Week, as the Wilmington University men’s basketball team is gearing up for a playoff run and the softball team got off to a great start this past weekend.

Redshirt sophomore Jermaine Head helped lead the Wildcats to a 1-1 record, being named the CACC Rookie of the Week for men’s basketball. Sophomore Rosa’Lynn Burton and freshman Makayla McCarthy helped the softball team to a 4-2 start to the 2018 season, being named the CACC Co-Player and Pitcher of the Week, respectively.

Head (Edgewood, Md./Joppatowne) averaged 24.5 points, 6.5 rebounds, 5.0 assists, and 2.0 steals per game in two games last week. He shot 55.56 percent from the floor, including 6-of-14 from beyond the three-point arc. Head added a 2.5 assist to turnover ratio for the week.

Against Chestnut Hill, Head went for 26 points on 11-of-20 shooting, adding eight assists, seven rebounds, and two steals. He then went for 23 points on 9-of-16 shooting, adding six rebounds and two assists in a win against Post on Saturday. Head has already set a new single season program record for the Wildcats, dishing out 120 so far on the year.

Burton (Dover, Del./Caesar Rodney) played in five of the six games this past weekend for the softball team, leading the way with a .500 on-base percentage, seven runs scored, and two doubles, and second on the team with a .450 batting average, nine hits, five RBI, and three stolen bases.

The sophomore collected three hits against Slippery Rock and East Stroudsburg, adding a two hit game against Kutztown. She hit doubles against Le Moyne and East Stroudsburg, picking up two RBI in the games against Slippery Rock and East Stroudsburg. She scored at least one run in all five games. She also went 3-for-3 on the base paths, with two stolen bases against Kutztown.

McCarthy (El Cajon, Calif./Steele Canyon) made her collegiate debut this weekend, playing all six games, but pitching in four of them. The freshman went 2-1 in the circle for the Wildcats, adding one save over the weekend. She struck out 18 in 20.1 innings pitched, finishing with a 2.41 ERA.

She made her pitching debut against Le Moyne, striking out six batters in 6.1 innings. McCarthy came back with six scoreless innings against Slippery Rock, striking out six more while only allowing two hits for her first collegiate win. She also started against Lock Haven, throwing her first complete game of the year. She struck out six more batters, allowing three runs on three hits in a 7-3 victory. McCarthy then came on to pitch the seventh inning against East Stroudsburg, locking down the victory with her first collegiate save. She also batted .429 with nine hits, a double, three RBI, and two runs scored.

Nick Richards was named to the men’s basketball honor roll while Bloomfield’s Nick Davidson and Dominican’s Daniel Grant shared the Player of the Week honors. Caldwell’s Eric Johnson-Alford was named the CACC Defensive Player of the Week.

Women’s basketball freshman Jadyn Whitsitt was named to the CACC women’s basketball weekly Honor Roll as well.

Burton shared the CACC Softball Player of the Week award with Georgian Court’s Samantha Reilly while Felician’s C.J. Apacible rounded out the Weekly Awards by being named the CACC Rookie of the Week. Wilmington’s Lauren Lopez was named to the weekly Honor Roll.

 

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SUBJECT: Kyle Fries’ 11th Inning Double Gives Baseball 3-2 Victory over Southern Connecticut State to Close Out Myrtle Beach

DATE: February 25, 2018
djl

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. - - The game needed 11 innings, but the Wilmington University baseball team came out of The Northeast Challenge with a 2-2 record, defeating Southern Connecticut State, 3-2, in extra innings on Sunday on Ebbetts Field at the Ripken Experience.

The Wildcats (2-2) used two pitchers in the 11 innings, getting a quality start from Zach Rumford before turning it over to Nick Grant. Rumford struck out seven in six innings, allowing one unearned run on eight hits while Grant earned the win in five innings of relief, allowing one unearned run on three hits.

The offense jumped out quickly over the Owls (2-2), scoring two runs in the top of the first inning. With two outs and Dakota Graham on third, Kendall Small hit an RBI single into right center for the quick 1-0 lead. After Small stole second base, Max Carney singled through the hole on the left side, chasing Small around third to lead 2-0.

The Owls got to Rumford in the third innings, as a two-out double to left, coupled with an error on the throw into the infield, allowed SCSU to get on the board, 2-1. Rumford then left two runners on in the fourth inning, before finishing out his 2018 debut with six innings of work.

Grant left a runner on second in his first inning of work in the seventh, but couldn’t keep the Owls off the board in the eighth inning. A lead off error set the stage before a one-out single scored the tying run from second.

Both teams went in order in the ninth inning while the Owls received a two-out single in the 10th before Grant picked up an inning ending strike out to head to the 11th.

Small started the top of the 11th with a single into right field before he was moved to second on a sacrifice bunt. Grant put runners on the corners with a single deep down the line at third with only one out. Kyle Fries stepped in and launched a ball to center field, hitting the wall for an RBI double and the 3-2 lead. But the Owls were able to get out of the rest of the inning unscathed.

Grant returned to the mound and allowed a leadoff single, but Frank Nigro made a nice play on a sacrifice bunt attempt, gunning down the running heading to second base for the first out. Nigro then gunned down the would-be base stealer at second for the second out of the inning. Grant then induced a long fly ball out to Dakota Graham in center to close out the victory.

Christian Adorno, Small, and Grant led the offense with two hits each while Grant and Fries tallied doubles for the Wildcats.

The Wildcats return north for a week before returning to warmer weather for another week away from the Northeast. They will start their week in South Florida with a doubleheader against Stonehill on Sunday, March 4, at Lynn University in Boca Raton.

 

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SUBJECT: Ninth Inning Shocker Puts Damper on Baseball’s Spring Break Split against Stonehill, 18-0, and Barry, 15-14

DATE: March 5, 2018
djl

MIAMI SHORES, Fla. - - The bats were unstoppable for the Wilmington University baseball team on its first day of Spring Break, but a six-run ninth inning rally ruined what would be a Monday sweep, defeating Stonehill, 18-0, before a shocking loss at Barry, 15-14, at Feinbloom Field.

Crooked numbers littered the line score for the Wildcats (3-3) on Monday, putting up frames of nine and five runs against Stonehill. The Wildcats had the lead at Barry for eight and a half innings, but gave up six runs in the bottom of the ninth to lose a 14-9 lead.

Game One – Stonehill

In the opener, it was a pair of crooked innings that set the Wildcats apart from the Skyhawks. The scoring started in the top of the second inning as Frank Nigro hit a two-out, two-run double to left field, scoring Nick Grant and Brett Nowell.

The Wildcat broke the game wide open in the fourth with a nine-run inning.

With the bases loaded and one out, Christian Adorno started the scoring spree with an RBI single. Kendall Small followed with a two-run single before Max Carney kept the scoring going with an infield single to score Adorno for the 6-0 lead. Now with two outs and the bases loaded, Kyle Fries singled through the left side for two more runs before Nigro brought in another run as the runners beat out a fielder’s choice to the shortstop. The scoring ended with a Dakota Graham single through the left side to bring in Fries and Nowell for the 11-0 advantage.

The Wildcats put the game away with five more runs in the sixth inning, getting a big bases clearing, three-run triple to center from Small.

On the other side of the ball, Brad Scull was dealing for the Wildcats. Cruising through the first four innings with six strikeouts. Scull allowed his first base runner in the fifth with a single, but picked up a 4-6-3 double play and another strikeout to leave the bases empty again. He then struck out the side in the sixth inning, going the first seven innings with 10 strikeouts and no walks allowed to improve to 2-0 on the year.

Bryce Carney struck out a pair in a scoreless eighth inning while Tyler Campbell finished the game with a strikeout in a scoreless ninth.

Small went 3-for-7 with a double, a triple, and five RBI while Nigro batted 3-for-6 with a double and four RBI. Carney added three hits with two RBI while Nowell finished 3-for-4 with a double and three runs scored.

Game Two - Barry

Brooks Ryan got the scoring started for the Wildcats in the top of the second inning, following a pair of walks to a long three-run blast to center field for a 3-0 lead.

The Wildcats tacked on single runs in the third and fourth innings before adding on two more runs in the top of the fifth inning to grab a 7-4 lead.

The first two runners reached to start the sixth inning for the Wildcats, and Christian Adorno started a four-run inning with an RBI single. Two batters later, Max Carney brought in a run with a sacrifice fly before Nick Grant did the same for the third run of the inning. Ryan collected another hit and another RBI with a single to cap the inning and give the Wildcats an 11-5 lead.

But the Buccaneers retaliated with a four-run inning of their own in the bottom of the sixth inning, climbing back to within 11-9.

A two-out error in the eighth brought in another run for the Wildcats before they added what seemed to be two more insurance runs in the ninth. Brett Nowell singled to score pinch runner Tyler Campbell before Dakota Graham knocked in Nowell with a single to left.

But it wasn’t enough for the Wildcats, as the Buccaneers scored six runs on five hits and an error in the bottom of the ninth. Reliever Frank Nigro got the first out of the inning before an error sparked the home team. The next three batters all singled while seven straight Buccaneers reached base to tie the game. Zach Frederick picked up a strikeout but the ball got away from the catcher to allow the game-winning run to cross, 15-14.

Graham led the Wildcats by going 3-for-5 with two RBI and two runs scored while Adorno, Ryan, and Nigro collected two hits each. Nigro was saddled with the loss in the ninth inning.

The Wildcats continue with playing Sunshine State Conference opponents the next two days, starting with a trip to Nova Southeastern on Tuesday night. First pitch in Fort Lauderdale is 6:00 p.m.

 

[dawrestling]

SUBJECT: Nova Southeastern Uses Late Game Comeback to Stun Baseball Again, 14-13

DATE: March 6, 2018
djl

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. - - Another late game collapse ruined a double digit run output from the offense, as Nova Southeastern came back to stun the Wilmington University baseball team, 14-13, on Tuesday night at the NSU Baseball Complex.

Leading 13-6 heading into the bottom of the seventh, the Wildcats (3-4) squandered five runs in the seventh, one in the eighth, and two in the ninth to fall victim to a walk-off for the second night in a row.

The Wildcats got off to a fast start on Tuesday night, scoring 12 of their 13 runs in the first four innings, including eight in the first two frames.

Kendall Small started the scoring with an RBI single to right center in the top of the first after the first two batters reached by Shark (8-6) errors. Max Carney hit a sacrifice fly for a 2-0 lead before Brooks Ryan singled through the left side and through the left fielder and all the way to the wall. Small and Nick Grant scored on the play to move ahead 4-0. Brett Nowell hit another sac fly to right to cap the scoring in the top of the first, 5-0.

Carney produced all three runs for the Wildcats in the top of the second inning, hitting a two-out, three-run bomb to right to put the Wildcats up, 8-1.

The Sharks answered with four runs in the bottom of the third without recording a base hit, using four walks, a hit by pitch, a sacrifice fly, and an RBI ground out to cut the deficit in half, 8-5.

Wilmington was able to get all four runs back in the top of the fourth inning. Justin Mears, Dakota Graham, and Christian Adorno started the frame with back-to-back-back singles to load the bases. Small dribbled one up the first base line, hitting the bag to score a run and keep the bases loaded. Carney walked for his fourth RBI of the day and Grant followed with a two-run single through the left side to move ahead 11-5.

Christian Adorno hit a two-out single back up the middle in the top of the seventh inning, scoring Frank Nigro from second base to put the visitors up, 13-6, needing only nine outs for the win.

But the Sharks started to battle back in the bottom of the seventh, scoring five runs on three hits, getting a big three-run homer to bring the home team to within 13-11. An RBI ground out in the eighth brought the Sharks to within a single run, 13-12, setting the stage for the walk-off in the ninth.

A one-out triple off the wall nearly tied the game, but an RBI single one batter later officially knotted the score at 13-13. With two outs and runners on second and third, Andrew Liberty laid down a bunt far enough away from Noah Latshaw towards the third base line for the walk-off squeeze bunt.

Adorno led the offense by going 3-for-4 with an RBI and two runs scored while Small and Grant added two hits each. Carney led all players with five RBI on the night.

 

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SUBJECT: Softball Finishes Spring Break With Pair of Late Game Victories, Defeating Mercyhurst and Bridgeport

DATE: March 9, 2018
djl

CLERMONT, Fla. - - A pair of last at-bat comebacks capped the Wilmington University softball team’s trip to the National Training Center, scoring a run in the top of the seventh to defeat Mercyhurst, 2-1, and three in the bottom of the sixth to stun Bridgeport, 6-5, on Friday in Florida.

The two wins today gives the Wildcats a 5-3 record while in Florida, defeating two nationally ranked opponents. They finish the week on a four-game winning streak, improving to 8-5 on the season.

Game One – Mercyhurst

Starting pitchers Caitlyn Whiteside and Tori Pierucci put zeroes on the board through the first three innings before the Wildcats broke through in the top of the fourth.

With two outs and Mirabella Klebart on first base, Lexi Baughman singled to put runners on the corners. Alyssa Velasquez then put the ball in play to short, reaching on a fielding error to extend the inning and allow Klebart to score. Klebart then threw out a runner trying to steal second in the bottom of the fourth and Whiteside left a runner on first to hold the 1-0 lead.

The Lakers were able to tie the game in the bottom of the fifth inning, scoring an unearned run with two outs. A passed ball moved a runner up to third and the throw down to the bag got away, allowing the Lakers to tie the game, 1-1.

The Wildcats went down in order in the sixth, but was able to regain the lead in the top of the seventh. With two outs and the bases empty, Rosa’Lynn Burton started the rally with an infield single. Burton then got into scoring position by stealing second base. Pinch hitter Makayla McCarthy stepped in and roped an RBI single to left center to easily score Burton from second.

Whiteside allowed a two-out single in the bottom of the seventh but induced a foul out to Klebart to end the game, 2-1.

Six different Wildcats collected one hit each in the opener. Whiteside struck out two while allowing four hits and two walks. Whiteside improved to 4-3 on the year with the win.

Game Two – Bridgeport

The Wildcats started fast in their final game in Florida, scoring three runs in the bottom of the first. But it was a late game comeback that enabled the Wildcats to extend their winning streak.

Rosa’Lynn Burton tripled to lead off the bottom of the first, followed by an infield single from Kiana Broderson-Jones. With runners on second and third, Lauren Lopez squeezed in Burton from third. The throw got away from the Purple Knights, allowing Broderson-Jones to come in for the second run on the play. Makayla McCarthy followed with an RBI dingle to right, pushing the Wildcats’ lead to 3-0.

But Bridgeport responded with a four-run second inning, all coming off an error and a walk. With runners on the corners and two outs, the Purple Knights got on the board with an RBI single before they took the lead, 4-3, with three-run home run to left center.

The Purple Knights extended the lead, 5-3, with a one-out RBI single in the top of the fourth. The Wildcats left two runners on base in the bottom of the fourth, getting a two-out double from Broderson-Jones. Klebart hit a two-out single in the fifth, but again the Wildcats went quiet in the inning. They broke through again in the sixth.

A single and an error started the frame before Burton lined out to third. The third baseman attempted to catch Jazmeen Llamas off the first base bag, but her throw was off the mark, allowing Alyssa Velasquez to score the first run of the inning. A passed ball brought in Llamas to tie the game, 5-5, and Lauren Lopez squeezed in Broderson-Jones for what would be the game-winning run.

Starting pitcher Makayla McCarthy shut the Purple Knights down in order in the top of the seventh, improving to 4-3 on the year with the win. She struck out three while allowing five runs (one earned) on eight hits and two walks.

Burton, Broderson-Jones, and Klebart all finished with two hits against Bridgeport while Lopez finished with two RBI.

Up Next:

The Wildcats return north to start their typical regional play, stepping on the field again on Friday, March 16 at Shippensburg. The Wildcats home and Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference opener is scheduled for March 17 against Bloomfield.

 

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SUBJECT: Raiders Break Away Late in 7-1 Victory over Wilmington Baseball

DATE: March 15, 2018
djl

SHIPPENSBURG, Pa. - - Three late runs allowed Shippensburg to pull away from the Wilmington University baseball team, 7-1, on Thursday afternoon at Fairchild Field in its first game above the Mason-Dixon Line in 2018.

A three-run second inning put the home team Raiders (7-7) ahead, but it was a three-run eighth inning that put the game out of reach for the Wildcats (3-9). The loss is the seventh straight for the Wildcats.

The Wildcats loaded the bases with two outs in the top of the first inning, as Kendal Small walked and Max Carney hit an infield single. Nick Grant worked a walk to fill the bases, but the Raiders picked up a ground out to second to end the threat.

The Raiders took advantage in the bottom of the first, as they capitalized with two runners on and two outs. A single into left scored the runner from second for the quick 1-0 lead.

Shippensburg widened the margin in the bottom of the second, as Jack Goertzen led off the home half with a solo shot to right center. The next batter doubled to keep the pressure on starter Ryan Bradigan, and the Raiders took a 4-0 lead with a two-run shot to left two batters later.

Bradigan settled in from there, setting the Raiders down in order in the third, fourth, fifth, and sixth innings, totaling 14 consecutive outs. But the offense only produced one run through that span for Bradigan, and it came off the bat of Frank Nigro in the top of the fifth inning. Leading off the frame, Nigro hit his first career home run, blasting one to left to put the Wildcats on the board, 4-1.

The Raiders snapped their out streak at 16 with a two-out single to right in the seventh off reliever Matt Frost, and then widened the margin even more in the eighth. The first four batters reached in the eighth for the Raiders, all going for hits with a double, an RBI single, an RBI double, and an RBI double for the 7-1 lead.

Nick Grant led the offense by going 2-for-3 with a walk while Nigro picked up the lone RBI with his solo homer in a 1-for-4 day. Bradigan finished with six innings pitched, allowing four runs on five hits while striking out four batters.

Ship starter Andy Crum went eight innings in the win while allowing one run on five hits with five strikeouts.

The Wildcats look to snap their seven-game losing streak with their home and Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference opener on Saturday afternoon. They will host Post in a conference doubleheader at Wilson Field starting at 12:00 p.m.

 

[dawrestling]

SUBJECT: Timely Hitting and Solid Pitching Lead Softball to Sweep of Shippensburg

DATE: March 16, 2018
djl

SHIPPENSBURG, Pa. - - Timely hitting led to a doubleheader sweep for the Wilmington University softball team, as it started its 2018 northern slate with 5-3 and 3-2 wins at Shippensburg on Friday afternoon at Robb Field.

A pair of three-run innings set the stage in each contest, as starting pitchers Caitlyn Whitside and Makayla McCarthy each went the distance for the doubleheader sweep for the Wildcats (11-5).

The Raiders (9-7) struck first in the opener, as they capitalized on a leadoff double with a two-out single in the bottom of the third for the 1-0 lead.

It didn’t take long for the Wildcats to strike back, as they answered in the top of the fourth inning. Mirabelle Klebart started the frame with a double to left before Annie Davila put runners on first and third with a one-out single. Lexi Baughman plated both runners and trotted around the bases herself with a three-run blast to left field.

The Wildcats added what proved to be much needed insurance runs in the top of the seventh inning. With runners on second and third and one out, Olivia Carbone singled on a bunt to first base to score Alyssa Velasquez, but Rosa’Lynn Burton was caught off third for the second out of the inning. Lauren Lopez came up with a clutch, two-out single back up the middle to give the Wildcats a 5-1 lead.

The Raiders scored two in the home half of the seventh with a one-out, two-run single, but Whiteside buckled down to get back-to-back ground outs to end the game, stranding two runners.

Seventh different batters collected one hit each for the Wildcats, anchored by Baughman’s three-run homer. Whiteside struck out four while allowing three runs on seven hits with one walk to improve to 5-2 on the year.

In the nightcap, it was a three-run second inning that all Makayla McCarthy needed for the 3-2 victory.

The first two batters of the second inning reached for the Wildcats, standing on second and third after an error. Now with one out, Alyssa Velasquez singled down the left field line for the game’s first run. Three batters later with the bases loaded, Jazmeen Llamas dropped in a single in front of the center fielder and behind the infielders for two more runs and the 3-0 lead.

A solo homer in the bottom of the third put the Raiders on the board, but that was all the damage McCarthy gave up in the frame. The Raiders edged closer in the bottom of the sixth inning, getting another leadoff home run to center before McCarthy got the next three Raiders out. McCarthy then set the Raiders down in order in the bottom of the seventh to close out the victory.

The Wildcats only collected two hits in the nightcap, both coming in the three-run second inning. McCarthy struck out eight Raiders, allowing two runs on four hits with one walk to improve to 5-3 on the year.

The Wildcats have little time to rest on their six-game winning streak, as they host Bloomfield at Asbury Field on Saturday for their Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference and home opener. The first pitch of the doubleheader is set for 12:00 p.m.

 

[dawrestling]

SUBJECT: Strong Starting Pitching Helps Baseball Snap Seven-Game Losing Streak; Gives Brian August 400th Career Win in Sweep of Post

DATE: March 17, 2018
djl

NEW CASTLE, Del. - - The strong starting pitching of Zach Rumford and Brad Scull led the Wilmington University baseball team to a Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference and home opening sweep of Post, 11-3 and 4-2, on Saturday afternoon at Wilson Field.

Rumford went eight strong innings in the opener for the Wildcats (5-9, 2-0 CACC), giving 14th year head coach Brian August his 400th career victory as a collegiate head coach, all at the helm of the Wildcats.

The Wildcats used 12 hits and four Eagle (8-10, 0-2 CACC) errors to score 11 runs in the opener, and collected six hits to go along with three Eagle errors in the nightcap for the sweep.

Game One:

The Eagles got to starter Zach Rumford first, giving the senior his first earned run of the season in the second inning. A leadoff walk came back to haunt Rumford, as a two-out single back up the middle on an 0-2 count plated the run for the 1-0 lead.

But the lead didn’t last long for Post, as the Wildcats answered in the bottom of the inning. With one out, Kyle Fries hit his first collegiate career home run, launching one to right center t quickly tie the game, 1-1. An error kept the Wildcats going in the inning, as Dakota Graham reached and Brett Nowell put runners at the corners with a hit-and-run single through the right side. Frank Nigro then executed a squeeze bunt to put the Wildcats ahead, 2-0.

Rumford worked around singles in the third and fourth innings before setting the Eagles down in order in the fifth and seventh innings. The offense gave him all the cushion he needed in the bottom of the sixth.

Again it was Fries that started the rally, hitting a one-out solo homer to right field for his second round-tripper of the game. Graham followed with a double inside the third base bag. Nowell singled and Nigro brought in another run with a single into left center. Max Carney stepped in and did the most damage, hitting a double inside the first base bag for two runs, giving the Wildcats a 6-1 lead.

Four more runs came home in the bottom of the seventh inning to cap the scoring. Nowell singled in Sean Deely and the throw back into the infield got away, allowing Fries to score from second. Carney was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded and Christian Adorno ended the scoring with a sac fly to center, 11-1.

Rumford struck out nine batters in eight innings, allowing one run on five hits and one walk. Fries, Graham, and Nowell all finished with two hits each. Carney led the team with three RBI.

Game Two:

The nightcap was Brad Scull’s turn to deal on the mound, as he went seven strong innings with six strikeouts, allowing two runs on two hits and two walks.

The offense struck quickly, putting three runs on the board for Scull in the bottom of the second. A single, a sacrifice bunt, and an RBI single was exactly how the Wildcats drew it up for the game’s first run, as Graham knocked in Nick Grant. Now with two outs, Adorno singled into left field, knocking in both Nowell and Nick Macey for the 3-0 lead.

Scull didn’t allow a base runner until the fifth inning, but left a walk and a two-out single on base to end the threat.

Two more sacrifice bunts brought in the Wildcats’ fourth run, as Macey squeezed home Graham in the bottom of the sixth.

Scull ran into trouble in the seventh inning, all with two outs and the bases empty. A hit by pitch and a walk led to a two-run double into the corner in right field, cutting the Wildcats’ deficit in half, 4-2. But Scull picked up the strikeout to end the frame and his day.

Sean Deely came on and went 1-2-3 in the eighth inning before Justin Mears went 1-2-3 for his first save as a Wildcat in the ninth inning.

Graham and Nowell collected two hits each while Adorno led with two RBI. Scull improved to 3-1 with the win.

Up Next:

The Wildcats head to defending NCAA Division II National Champion West Chester for their next game on Tuesday. The single, nine-inning game is slated for a 3:00 p.m. start in West Chester, Pennsylvania.

 

[dawrestling]

SUBJECT: Bears Steal Game One but Softball Fights for Split with Bloomfield in CACC Opener

DATE: March 17, 2018
djl

NEW CASTLE, Del. - - A four-run fourth inning in game two allowed the Wilmington University softball to split its Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference and home opener with Bloomfield, falling 7-4 in the opener before coming back to win 5-0 in the nightcap on Saturday afternoon at Asbury Field.

The bats were working on Saturday, as the Wildcats (12-6, 1-1 CACC) collected 12 hits in the opener before nine more in the nightcap. But the Bears (1-6, 1-1 CACC) used a seven-run sixth inning to steal game one, collecting 12 hits of their own for their first victory of the year.

Game One

The opener began with starter Caitlyn Whiteside getting out of a bases loaded, one-out jam in the top of the first. The Wildcats struck first in the opener with a run in the bottom of the second, as Keara McCarthy brought in Lexi Baughman with an RBI single. Baughman set the stage with a one-out double.

Rosa’Lynn Burton set up the third inning with a leadoff bunt single. Now on third with one out, Mirabella Klebart made it 2-0 with an infield single to third. Burton was at it again in the bottom of the fourth inning, this time hitting a two-out double down the left field line to bring in Olivia Carbone for the 3-0 lead.

But Whiteside ran into trouble in the sixth inning as the first five batters reached base. With the bases loaded, a two-run single brought the Bears to within 3-2 before an error brought in the game-tying run. A bases laoded walk brought in the go-ahead run before a sacrifice fly and an error made it 7-3 in a blink of an eye.

The Wildcats fought back to load the bases in the bottom of the sixth with one out, but they could only put one run on the board on a sacrifice fly from Lauren Lopez. One left effort in the bottom of the seventh yielded a lead off single by Klebart, but the Bears picked up the last three outs to end the game.

Burton went 4-for-4 with an RBI and a run scored while Klebart went 2-for-4 with one RBI. Whiteside was saddled with the loss by allowing six runs (four earned) on 10 hits in 5.1 innings pitched.

Game Two

Makayla McCarthy paced the Wildcats in the nightcap in game two, tossing a complete game shutout with eight strikeouts to earn the CACC split. She only gave up three hits and one walk, leaving all six runners on base throughout the game.

The Wildcats got all the runs they would need in the bottom of the second inning, getting two hits and aided by one error in the frame. Annie Davila started the inning with a leadoff single before a hit-by-pitch put runners on first and second. An error on a sacrifice bunt attempt loaded the bases. Two batters later, Rosa’Lynn Burton singled in Baughman for the game’s first run.

The home team put the game away in the bottom of the fourth inning with a four run frame. Baughman started the scoring by sneakily stealing home. Now with the bases loaded, Klebart singled inside the third base line to plate two. Two batters later with two outs, Davila singled back up the middle to score Jazmeen Llamas and lead 5-0.

McCarthy got out of a jam in the sixth inning, leaving runners on the corners to keep the Bears off the board. She finished the complete game shutout by leaving a runner on first in the seventh.

Burton, Llamas, Klebart, and Davila all collected two hits in the nightcap and Klebart leading the way with two RBI.

Up Next:

The Wildcats have little time to think about the CACC split, as they return to action on Sunday afternoon with another home doubleheader. They welcome perennial East Region Power Adelphi to Asbury Field for a twinbill starting at 12:00 p.m.

 

[dawrestling]

SUBJECT: Five Wilmington Student-Athletes Earn CACC Player of the Week Honors

DATE: March 19, 2018
djl

NEW HAVEN, Conn. - - A pair of first wins of the season, as well as a solid home opening weekend propelled the Wilmington University spring sports to five Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference Players of the Week on Monday, as announced by the conference office.

Men’s lacrosse earned the first win in program history last week and two leaders were awarded for their efforts. Midfielder Josh Burley was named the CACC Rookie of the Week while goalkeeper Noah Given was named the CACC Defensive Player of the Week for the win.

On the softball diamond, the Wildcats played their first games on Asbury Field and were led by CACC Player of the Week Rosa’Lynn Burton and CACC Pitcher and Rookie of the Week Makayla McCarthy in going 4-2 last week.

Women’s lacrosse also earned their first victory of the 2018 season, and midfielder Mikailla Spencer was rewarded for her defensive prowess during two games last week, being named the CACC Defensive Player of the Week.

Burley (Easton, Pa./Easton) led the men’s lacrosse team to its first victory in program history, an 11-4 victory over St. Thomas Aquinas. Burley was the offensive threat in the game, finishing with a team high five points, scoring four goals while adding one assist. He was also dominant in the face-off circle for the Wildcats, going 12-of-16 for the game, accounting for 12 of the team’s 13 face-off wins. Burley also led the team with 10 grounds balls in the game, with the bulk of them coming following the face-off to gain control for the Wildcats.

Given (Middletown, Del./Appoquinimink) anchored the defensive side of the ball for the Wildcats, making 11 stops in goal to earn the victory. Four of the freshman’s saves came in the first quarter, allowing the Wildcats to lead at the end of the first quarter, 4-1. He faced 21 shots, yielding just four goals for the win.

Burton (Dover, Del./Caesar Rodney) led the softball team to a 4-2 record last week, batting .478 in 23 at-bats. After going 0-for-6 in the first two games, Burton went 11-for-17 in her next four games, including a perfect 4-for-4 with a double in game one against Bloomfield. She also went 4-for-6 with a double in game two against Adelphi, knocking in two RBI while scoring one more. She went 1-for-3 in the opener against Adelphi, hitting a triple to spark a three-run fifth inning. She also went 5-of-6 on the base paths to extend her CACC lead.

McCarthy (El Cajon, Calif./Steele Canyon) went 2-1 in the circle for the Wildcats, appearing in four games. In 25.2 innings pitched, she only allowed four earned runs for a 1.09 ERA. She struck out 22 batters while only allowing five walks and 17 hits. She struck out eight in a complete game victory over Shippensburg before striking out eight more in a complete game shutout in game two against Bloomfield. McCarthy went all 10 innings in a complete game against Adelphi, striking out four while allowing six runs (two earned) on eight hits.

Spencer (Edgewood, Md./Harford Tech) helped the women’s lacrosse team to their first win of the 2018 season by being a defensive stickler in two games last week. In the come from behind victory at Converse, Spencer scooped up five ground balls while causing four turnovers. She also dished out an assist in the 13-12 victory. Spencer scored a goal, collected one ground ball, and added one caused turnover at Queens on Saturday.

The Wildcats had more accolades for their spring sports, as baseball’s Zach Rumford and Brett Nowell earned spots on the CACC Weekly Honor Roll for their efforts in the team’s CACC sweep over Post. Taylor Lambeth and Lashay Ross were also named to the CACC Women’s Lacrosse Weekly Honor Roll for their statistics during the team’s two games last week.

 

[dawrestling]

SUBJECT: LIU Post Takes Two from Softball, 3-1 and 3-2 (8 inn.)

DATE: March 25, 2018
djl

NEW CASTLE, Del. - - The offense was silenced on a cold and windy day at Asbury Field, as LIU Post came in and swept a nonconference doubleheader, 3-1 and 3-2 (8), over the Wilmington University softball team on Sunday afternoon.

The Wildcats (13-9) left six runners on base with five hits in the opener and left five more on with only four hits in the nightcap. LIU Post (8-8) scored in three separate innings in game one before a two-run fifth and an unearned run in the eighth in the nightcap.

The Pioneers got the scoring started in the top of the third with a two-out double and a single down the left field line. Another two-out single to right in the top of the fourth gave the visitors a 2-0 lead. LIU Post started a two-out rally again in the fifth with a double and a single to take a 3-0 lead.

The Wildcats didn’t get their first base runner until the third inning, leaving the bases loaded in the frame. An error and a double set up the Wildcats in the sixth, but they could only score one run on an RBI groundout, as the Pioneers picked up back-to-back fly balls to end the inning.

Caitlyn Whiteside was saddled with the game one loss, going all seven with three strikeouts and no walk. She allowed three runs on six hits.

The Wildcats struck first in the nightcap, scoring a run in the bottom of the fourth inning. With two outs and a runner on second, a throwing error put Mirabella Klebart on and scored Lauren Lopez from second for the 1-0 lead.

LIU Post quickly answered in the top of the fifth, as the Pioneers leading hitter Julia Seader hit a two-out, two-run homer to right center to put the visitors on top, 2-1.

The Wildcats tied the game in the bottom half of the inning, as another two-out Pioneer error allowed a run to come home. Alyssa Velasquez reached on a fielding error, bringing in Keara McCarthy to knot the score, 2-2.

Makayla McCarthy doubled to lead off the sixth inning for the Wildcats, and was moved over to third with one out. But the Pioneers’ starter Katie Humhej picked up back-to-back strikeouts to escape the threat and keep the score tied, 2-2.

The game went into extra innings and the Pioneers were able to put the pressure on first. The eighth started with three straight singles, the third being a bunt single and an error to bring in the runner from second. Makayla McCarthy buckled down and got the next three outs to escape further damage.

The Wildcats were not able to answer in the bottom of the eighth inning, going down 1-2-3 to fall, 3-2.

Makayla McCarthy was the only Wildcat to record multiple hits, going 2-for-3 with a double. She also struck out a season high 11 batters without issuing a walk, but was saddled with the loss by allowing three runs (two earned) on eight hits.

The Wildcats return to Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference action with their next contest, as they head to Nyack for a doubleheader on Wednesday. The first pitch of the afternoon is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. in Nyack, New York.

 

[dawrestling]

SUBJECT: Nick Richards and Jermaine Head Add 2017-18 CoBL Postseason Honors

DATE: March 27, 2018
djl

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. - - The high scoring duo of Nick Richards and Jermaine Head earned another postseason accolade for the Wilmington University men’s basketball team, being named to the 2017-18 City of Basketball Love Division II All-Area Team, as announced by the organization on Tuesday.

The backcourt duo helped the Wildcats to a 16-13 overall record, going 11-8 in the Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference to earn a spot in the CACC Tournament for the second year in a row.

Nick Richards (Newark, Del./Hodgson Vo-Tech) led the team and was second in the CACC in scoring, pouring in 20.6 points per game, leading the league in scoring 21.2 points per game against conference opponents. He was also second on the team and 13th in the CACC in grabbing 6.3 rebounds a contest and second on the team and ninth in the CACC in dishing out 3.8 assists per game. Defensively, he was third in the CACC in picking off 2.3 steals a contest. Richards reached double figures in all but two of the 22 games played this year, including 30 or more points three times with a season high 34-point outing at Goldey-Beacom on February 18.

Jermaine Head (Edgewood, Md./Joppatowne) finished second on the team and fourth in the CACC in scoring 18.5 points per game. He led the CACC in dishing out 4.7 assists per game, while also pulling in 5.3 rebounds a contest. Defensively, he picked up 2.1 steals per game, ranking fourth in the CACC. Head turned it on down the stretch of the season, scoring 20 or more points in the team’s last six games, averaging 24.2 points per game in those contests. He scored a season high 32 points in a come-from-behind victory at Millersville on November 15 and dished out a season high 12 assists against Concordia on January 13.

Richards was named First Team All-CACC earlier this month while Head was named to the Second Team All-CACC as well as the CACC Rookie of the Year.

AGATE:

2017-18 CoBL All-Area Teams:

Player of the Year: Dustin Sleva (Sr./PF/Shippensburg)
Rookie of the Year: Alexander Gorton (Fr./G/Jefferson)
Coach of the Year: Jeff Wilson (East Stroudsburg)

FIRST TEAM
Steve Harris (R-Sr./C/East Stroudsburg)
Anthony Lee (R-Jr./G/Kutztown)
Tyrell Long (Sr./SF/West Chester)
Christian Mortellite (R-Sr./F/Bloomsburg)
Nick Richards (Sr./G/Wilmington)
Corey Taite (Jr./G/Goldey-Beacom)

SECOND TEAM
Marcus Adkison (Jr./G/Millersville)
Flo Da-Silva (Sr./G/USciences)
Jermaine Head (R-So./G/Wilmington)
Amir Hinton (Soph./SG/Lock Haven)
Kaison Randolph (Sr./G/Jefferson)
Ethan Ridgeway (Sr./PG/Kutztown)

THIRD TEAM
Will Gregorits (Sr./F/USciences)
Alexander Gorton (Fr./G/Jefferson)
Jackson Hyland (Jr./SF/West Chester)
Justin McCarthur (Sr./G/Shippensburg)
Frank Rokins (Jr./SF/West Chester)
Dante Thompson (Sr./F/Goldey-Beacom)

ALL-ROOKIE TEAM
*Alexander Gorton (Jefferson)
Paddy Casey (USciences)
Matt Cerruti (Lock Haven)
Terrell Jones (Holy Family)
Caden Najdawi (Millersville)
Moe Williams (Kutztown)

About City of Basketball Love (from website) :

City of Basketball Love (CoBL) is a news organization that covers all things basketball in and around Philadelphia. From stories about Division I stars to high school rookies, we create content that covers the whole spectrum of talent in the area, with a focus on covering those who fly under the radar of the national and even regional outlets. As we expand into hosting camps and clinics, we aim to give players the exposure they need to take their game to the next level and make their dreams a reality.

Founded in the summer of 2012, what started as a side project for two friends with a passion for basketball has grown into a bustling organization of over 30 writers, photographers, and scouts. CoBL is now a leading destination for Philadelphia basketball followers, from players and fans to coaches and parents.

 

[dawrestling]

SUBJECT: Wilmington Golf Wins Jefferson Quad with a Round of 297

DATE: March 27, 2018
djl

LAFAYETTE HILL, Pa. - - In its first match in a month, the Wilmington University golf team defeated three other teams at the Jefferson Quad, shooting a 297 at the ACE Club hosted by Jefferson on Tuesday afternoon.

The Wildcats won the event by 15 strokes, finishing ahead of Goucher College who shot a 312. Chestnut Hill finished third with a 322 while Jefferson finished last with a 337.

Teammates Zac Moore and Sergio Ronchel led the pack of 20 golfers by each shooting a 73. Joey Russo finished third in the field with a 74 while Enrique Valverde rounded out the Wildcats’ soring with a round of 77. Ryan Rucinski finished off the Wildcats with a 78 on Tuesday.

With their first round in a month out of the way, the Wildcats head to their next tournament starting on Monday, April 2. The Wildcats head back to the Sunshine State to take part in the Battle at the Shores, hosted by Barry University. The two-day, three-round tournament will be played the Normandy Shores Golf Course in Miami Beach, Florida.

AGATE:

2018 Jefferson Quad

Wilmington University – 297Goucher College – 312
Chestnut Hill – 322
Jefferson – 337

Wilmington:
Zac Moore – 73
Sergio Ronchel – 73
Joey Russo – 74
Enrique Valverde – 77
Ryan Rucinski – 78

 

[dawrestling]

SUBJECT: Baseball Sweeps Jefferson Behind Pitching and Timely Hitting, 6-3 and 5-2

DATE: March 28, 2018
djl

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. - - The formula seems to be set for the Wilmington University baseball team; great starting pitching and timely hitting.

That proved to be on display once again on Wednesday, as the Wildcats (10-10, 7-1 CACC) swept a Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference on the road at Jefferson, 6-3 and 5-2, at Alumni Field. Today’s first game was the First Round of the Bill Giles Invitational and with the win the Wildcats will play in the championship game at Citizens Bank Park in April.

Coming back on just three days rest, starters Zach Rumford and Brad Scull were again dealing on Wednesday afternoon. Rumford was up first in game one.

Zach Rumford allowed five hits in seven innings of work, only allowing a sixth inning run on a two-out single, while striking out eight more batters. He set the Rams (4-15, 1-4 CACC) down in order in his last inning of work, throwing 101 pitches after throwing seven innings on Saturday. He will now have a week off from any action.

The Wildcats got the scoring started in the top of the second inning, as Max Carney took a 2-1 pitch over the fence in right for a solo homer, his second of the season, for the 1-0 lead. Christian Adorno added to the lead in the top of the fourth inning, after Justin Mears opened the inning with a single to left. Adorno knocked Mears in from second for the 2-0 lead after four. Frank Nigro tacked on another run in the top of the fifth, as he laced a run scoring double to right center after Kyle Fries hit a one-out triple to start the rally.

The Rams scored their run in the bottom of the sixth but the Wildcats answered in the top of the eighth. Adorno started the frame with a double into the corner in left and eventually came home on a wild pitch. Kyle Fries hit a two-out single to left, chasing Matt Frost home from third for the 5-1 lead.

Jefferson again cut into the lead with two runs in the bottom of the eighth, but Adorno answered the call again in the top of the ninth with a double off the wall in left center, scoring Dakota Graham from third for the added insurance run.

Justin Mears came in and slammed the door, getting two ground outs before finishing the game with a strikeout for his fourth save of the year. Rumford improved to 2-1 on the year.

Brad Scull took the ball in the nightcap and although didn’t finish with the strikeout totals he has been accustomed to this year, still worked five strong innings for the win. He struck out four while allowing two runs (one earned) on eight hits to improve to 5-1.

A two-out error with the bases loaded allowed the Wildcats to score two runs in the top of the first and take a strangle hold on the nightcap.

The score remained 2-0 until the top of the fifth inning, as the Wildcats struck again with two outs. With runners on second and third, Nick Macey beat the center fielder with a double to plate two more. Kendall Small followed with another two-out RBI single, giving the Wildcats a 5-0 lead.

The Rams answered with two runs of their own in the bottom of the fifth, but the bullpen would shut down the Rams the rest of the way. Matt Danz pitched a scoreless sixth inning before Matt Frost came in got a game-ending double play for his first collegiate save.

Adorno went 4-for-5 with three doubles, two RBI, and a run scored in the opener, adding a 1-for-3 performance in the nightcap. Frank Nigro went 3-for-4 with a double in the opener while Kyle Fries went 2-for-4 with a triple in game one. Dakota Graham led the Wildcats in game two, going 3-for-4 with a run scored. Brett Nowell batted 2-for-3 in the nightcap as well.

The Wildcats have a week off until they return to CACC play, when they host Felician in another South Division twinbill at Wilson Field. The first pitch is set for 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 3.

 

[dawrestling]

SUBJECT: Annie Davila Hits Three Total Homers but Nyack Steals Nightcap as Softball Splits Road CACC Doubleheader

DATE: March 28, 2018
djl

ORANGEBURG, N.Y. - - Sophomore Annie Davila hit three home runs on Wednesday, two of which came in the nightcap, but Nyack stormed back in game two to split a Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference doubleheader, 8-0 and 5-4, against the Wilmington University softball team at South Orangetown Little League.

A five-run third inning catapulted the Wildcats (14-10, 2-2 CACC) to a five-inning, 8-0 victory in game one. The Wildcats held a 4-1 lead going into the sixth inning, but Nyack (4-14, 1-3 CACC) fought back to score three in the sixth and walked away with the 5-4 win in the bottom of the seventh.

Rosa’Lynn Burton led the off the doubleheader with a single and two stolen bases, allowing Jazmeen Llamas to hit a sacrifice fly to left to give the Wildcats a 1-0 lead two batters into the contest.

Another Burton single and stolen base set up the top of the third inning, as she eventually scored on an error. Makayla McCarthy hit an RBI single before Annie Davila hit the first of three homers on the afternoon, a three-run shot to cap a five-run, third inning for the 6-0 lead.

Alyssa Velasquez drew a bases loaded walk in the top of the fourth and Makayla McCarthy doubled in Lacey Nealy to set the eight-run rule into affect.

Game one starter Caitlyn Whiteside finished off the Warriors with a 1-2-3 fifth inning, moving to 7-4 on the year with the complete game shutout. She struck out five batters without allowing a walk and only giving up four hits.

The Wildcats got off to a good start in the nightcap, getting a jump off the bat from Annie Davila once again. With one out in the second, Davila hit a solo shot, her second of the day, to put the Wildcats up 1-0.

The Warriors tied the game in the bottom of the third with an RBI triple, but the Wildcats had an answer in the top of the fourth. It was up to Annie Davila once again, she stepped up and belted a three-run blast with one out, scoring Alyssa Velasquez and Makayla McCarthy for the 4-1 lead.

Game two starter Makayla McCarthy set the Warriors down in order in the fifth, but the home team got to the freshman in the sixth. With runners on second and third, an RBI single brought the game to 4-2. But a two-out, two-run homer tied the game one batter later.

The Wildcats loaded the bases in the top of the seventh with two outs, but Nyack got out of the jam with a strikeout to keep the game tied. The Warriors started the seventh with a leadoff double, but McCarthy was able to get the next two batters out. The third out wasn’t as easy to come by, however, as the Warriors hit an RBI single to walk-off with the win, 5-4.

Annie Davila went 3-for-5 with three homers, seven RBI, and three runs scored in the doubleheader. Burton went 3-for-4 in game one and 1-for-3 in the nightcap.

The Wildcats remain in CACC play with their next doubleheader, making up a twinbill with Chestnut Hill on Friday in Philadelphia. The first pitch is set for 12:00 p.m.

 

[dawrestling]

SUBJECT: Makayla McCarthy Strikes out 14, Annie Davila Stays Hot as Softball Defeats Chestnut Hill, 2-0, Before Game Two is Postponed

DATE: March 30, 2018
djl

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. - - The Wilmington University softball team was able to defeat Chestnut Hill, 2-0, in game one of its Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference doubleheader before the rains came and postponed came two in the bottom of the third on Friday afternoon at the CHC Softball Field.

All game one starter Makayla McCarthy needed was a two-run third inning in the opener, as the Wildcats (15-10, 3-2 CACC) shut out the Griffins (0-10, 0-3 CACC).

Makayla McCarthy didn’t allow a base runner until the fifth inning, striking out the side in the second and third innings. By the time she allowed a two-out double in the fifth, the Wildcats already had a 2-0 lead.

With two outs and the bases empty, Alyssa Velasquez started a rally with an infield single. Lauren Lopez put runners on second and third with a single to right and advancing on the throw. Annie Davila, fresh off a three home run day on Wednesday, brought in both runners with a single into center field to give the Wildcats a 2-0 lead.

That was all McCarthy needed, as she left a runner on third in the fifth, set the Griffins down in order in the sixth, and struck out the final two batters in the seventh, leaving the bases loaded to end the game.

Makayla McCarthy improved to 7-6 on the year with the complete game shutout, striking out a season high 14 batters while only allowing three hits and one free pass. It is her second complete game shutout of the season, and now has 87 strikeouts to only 19 walks on the year.

Davila went 2-for-2 with two RBI while Lauren Lopez was the only other Wildcat with multiple hits, going 2-for-3 with a run scored. Velasquez and Lexi Baughman picked up the other two hits for the Wildcats.

A date and time to make up game two of the doubleheader has not been announced as of Friday afternoon.

The Wildcats return to action after Easter Weekend, hosting Holy Family on Tuesday at Asbury Field. The first pitch of the CACC doubleheader is scheduled for 2:30 p.m.

 

[dawrestling]

SUBJECT: Bats Come Alive for Softball in Sweep of In-State Rival Goldey-Beacom, 4-1 and 10-0

DATE: April 5, 2018
djl

WILMINGTON, Del. - - The bats came alive for the Wilmington University softball team as they earned a Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference doubleheader sweep of Goldey-Beacom, 4-1 and 10-0 (6 inn.), on Thursday afternoon at the Jackson Complex.

Rosa’Lynn Burton and Makayla McCarthy collected multiple hits in the opener before Annie Davila and Lexi Baughman collected three hits each in the nightcap for the Wildcats (18-10, 6-2 CACC).

Game One:

The Wildcats didn’t get on the board in the opener until the fifth inning, but scored a run or more in the fifth, sixth, and seventh inning to erase the early 1-0 deficit.

The Lightning (1-14, 1-9 CACC) opened the scoring with a one out double, a sacrifice, and a bunt through the right side for the quick 1-0 lead in the bottom of the first. But that was all starter Makayla McCarthy allowed in the game, striking out eight while only allowing three hits and two walks.

The offense left three on base in the second and was set down in order in the third and fourth before getting on the board in the fifth. With two outs and the bases empty, Jazmeen Llamas started a rally with a bunt single and a stolen base. Rosa’Lynn Burton brought her in to tie the game with an RBI double, 1-1.

The Wildcats plated two more in the top of the sixth, as back-to-back saceifice bunts brought in Mirabella Klebart for the go-ahead run. Makayla McCarthy doubled to keep the inning alive before Lexi Baughman added an insurance run with a single down the right field line for the 3-1 lead.

McCarthy induced an inning ending line drive double play in the bottom of the sixth, erasing two runners on with one out in the frame.

Burton was the catalyst again for the Wildcats in the seventh, hitting a one out triple to right field. Alyssa Velasquez gave the Wildcats a 4-1 lead with a sacrifice fly to left field. McCarthy finished off the Lightning with a pair of strikeouts in the seventh for the 4-1 victory.

Burton went 2-for-4 with a double and a triple while McCarthy went 2-for-3 with a double. McCarthy improved to 8-6 in the circle for the Wildcats.

Game Two:

It didn’t take long for the Wildcats to score in the nightcap, as they put the Lightning on their heels with a three-run top of the first.

Two errors set the stage for McCarthy, as she doubled down the left field line to score Alyssa Velasquez. Now with two outs, Lexi Baughman singled back up the middle to plate two more, giving the Wildcats a 3-0 lead.

Game two starter Caitlyn Whiteside only allowed one hit in the first three innings before the offense got back to scoring in the top of the fourth.

A leadoff walk and a one out error had runners on the corners for Olivia Carbone. She squared to squeeze in a run, but beat out the bunt for the single instead for the fourth inning’s first run. Now with two outs and the bases loaded, Annie Davila singled back up the middle to plate two and give the Wildcats a 6-0 advantage.

Jazmeen Llamas hit a two-out RBI single in the fifth inning, scoring Baughman from second who hit a one-out double.

The Wildcats put the run rule in effect in the top of the sixth, as Annie Davila remained red hot and hit her fourth home run in six games, a two run shot to give the Wildcats a 9-0 lead. Baughman finished the scoring with another two-out RBI single back up the middle.

Whiteside induced double plays to end the fourth and fifth innings, and then set the Lightning down in order in the sixth to improve to 9-4 on the season.

Davila went 3-for-4 with a homer and four RBI in the nightcap while Baughman finished 3-for-3 with a double and three RBI.

Up Next:

The Wildcats make up a pair of games tomorrow, heading to Chestnut Hill to close out the CACC doubleheader suspended on March 30. After that game, the Wildcats will faceoff against Holy Family at Chestnut Hill to finish a suspended doubleheader from April 3.

 

[dawrestling]

SUBJECT: Women’s Tennis Returns from Winter Break with 9-0 Sweep at Millersville

DATE: April 5, 2018
djl

MILLERSVILLE, Pa. - - In its first action of the 2018 spring season, the Wilmington University women’s tennis team went on the road and swept Millersville, 9-0, on Thursday afternoon at the McComsey Tennis Courts.

With the nonconference win, the Wildcats improved to 11-6 overall on the season.

The closest match of the day came in the doubles events, as Laura Gil and Andrea Ribalta battled at number one doubles. With the Wildcats already leading 2-0, Gil and Ribalta gave the Wildcats the 3-0 lead with a tough 8-6 victory at number one doubles.

Tess Paya was the first to finish in the singles events, winning at number six singles, 6-1 and 6-0. Laura Gil quickly followed with a sweep at number two singles, 6-1 and 6-0.

Jane Malygina earned the victory at number three singles by set scores of 6-1 and 6-1 before Andrea Ribalts kept the winning going for the Wildcats with a 6-1, 6-0 sweep at number five singles.

Anushka Sathe didn’t give up a point at number four singles, giving the Wildcats an 8-0 lead with a 6-0 and 6-0 sweep. Begona Gomar closed out the sweep with the match of the day at number one singles, winning in straight sets, 6-4 and 6-1.

The Wildcats have a quick turnaround for their next spring matches, as they head to Stow, Ohio to compete at the Latuchie Tennis Center against teams from Michigan. They will square off against Wayne State (Michigan) on Saturday before battling nationally #22 Grand Valley State on Sunday.

 

[dawrestling]

SUBJECT: Women’s Tennis Battle Tough Competition in Wayne State and #22 Grand Valley State in Ohio

DATE: April 8, 2018
djl

STOW, OHIO - - The Wilmington University women’s tennis team traveled to the Latuchie Tennis Center in Stow, Ohio and competed against a pair of Midwest Regional opponents, falling to Wayne State (Mich.), 8-1, on Saturday before falling to nationally ranked No. 22 Grand Valley State, 5-0, on Sunday afternoon.

Tess Paya was the lone winner in the Wildcats’ (11-8) loss to Wayne State, coming back from a first set loss to win in the tiebreak. She dropped the first set at number six singles, 6-2, but battles back to tie the match with a second set victory, 6-1. She then took the tiebreaker, 10-7, to put the Wildcats on the board.

On Sunday, Grand Valley State took all three doubles matches, winning 8-4, 8-3, and 8-0, to gain a quick 3-0 lead in the match. The Lakers earned their fourth point by default at number two singles before capturing the match at number four singles.

Laura Gil and Tess Paya were leading their contests when the match ended, as Gil won her first set at number three singles, 6-3. Paya won her first set, 7-5, and was leading the second set, 4-1, as the match ended. Begona Gomar was in a battle at number one singles as well, dropping the first set, 6-1, but had the second set tied, 5-5, when the game was called.

The Wildcats head to LIU Post next Saturday, April 14, to wrap up their 2018 spring season. First service is set for 11:0 p.m. on Long Island.

 

[dawrestling]

Goldey-Beacom Golf Finishes Play at the Towson Invitational


Goldey-Beacom once again displayed a strong showing against higher-echelon schools in closing play at the Towson Invitational in Grasonville, MD.


Junior Ryan Quigg (Sykesville, MD) followed his 80 from Saturday to shoot 78 and finish 39th with 158. Sophomore Shea Murphy (Wilmington, DE) also carded a Sunday 78, ending the tournament tied for 64th with 164.


Freshman Hunter Tollinger (Elkton, MD) was tied for 85th with 170, senior Andre Primeau (Pontypool, ON) finished 88th with 172 and freshman Corbin Babyak (Wallenpaupack, PA) closed 89th with 174.


In a tournament which featured 14 Division I schools, the Lightning ended 16th with 658. That bested Division I Maryland Eastern Shore, who shot 681. St. Bonaventure won with 603.


Goldey-Beacom on Thursday and Friday will take part in the Mike Bello Invitational in Syracuse, NY.



Derek CrudeleSports Information Coordinatorcrudele@gbc.edu | (302) 225-6330



Goldey-Beacom College | www.gbc.edu 4701 Limestone Road, Wilmington, DE 19808



Ranked #1 in Delaware for 2018!



IMPORTANT: This communication and any files transmitted with it (the "Communication") is sent on behalf of Goldey-Beacom College and may be privileged or confidential. The Communication is intended solely for the intended recipient(s) or entity(ies) to which it is addressed and additionally should not be forwarded except in the course of legitimate Goldey-Beacom College business. If you are not the intended recipient or believe that you may have received this Communication in error, you may not disclose, copy, print, distribute, or otherwise use this Communication. Please indicate to the sender that you have received this Communication in error, forward a copy of this Communication to hr@gbc.edu indicating that you received it in error, and then delete this Communication and any copies thereof. Thank you.

 

[dawrestling]

SUBJECT: Post Uses Fourth Quarter Spurt in 9-5 Victory over Men’s Lacrosse

DATE: April 8, 2018
djl

WATERBURY, Conn. - - A three-goal spurt in the fourth quarter allowed Post to separate itself from the Wilmington University men’s lacrosse team on Sunday as the Wildcats fell, 9-5, in the Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference opener at LaMoy Field.

In a tightly contested contest, the Eagles (1-8, 1-0 CACC) separated themselves with three straight goals in the fourth quarter after the Wildcats (2-6, 0-1 CACC) got to within a single goal.

The teams scored one goal each in the first quarter before Post took the lead for good in the second. They scored the first two goals of the quarter and ended the half with a goal to take a 4-2 lead into the halftime break.

Cory Melvin brought the Wildcats to within 5-3 at the end of the third quarter, getting a long clear from Noah Given and beating the clock with four ticks left.

Josh Burley scored on the Wildcats first possession of the fourth quarter, bringing the Wildcats to with 5-4 with 12:25 left in regulation.

But the Eagles retaliated from there, winning the ensuing face-off and scoring on a man-advantage opportunity to start a 3-0 run. They moved ahead, 7-4, with a goal at 7:54 before ending their run with another goal with 6:05 left in regulation for the 8-4 lead.

Cory Melvin broke up the run with another goal with 3:47 to play and the Wildcats had five shots in the next two minutes, but Eagle goalkeeper Manuele D’Alessio made four saves to keep the Eagles in control.

Post was able to put the game away with 51 seconds left, adding an insurance goal to finalize the score, 9-5.

The teams tied in shots, 33-33, with the Wildcats putting 20 shots on goal. D’Alessio made 15 saves for the Eagles, including six in the fourth quarter, to keep the Eagles in front.

Melvin led the Wildcats with two goals and an assist while Josh Burley also scored twice. Chris Smith scored the other Wildcat goal while adding two assists. Jon Howell led the team with six ground balls and three caused turnovers while Kyle Leary came up with four ground balls and three caused turnovers. Noah Given made nine saves, to go along with his first collegiate assist, for the Wildcats.

The final four games for the Wildcats are CACC contests, as they welcome Georgian Court to the WU Athletics Complex for their next game. The opening face-off is set for Wednesday at 4:00 p.m.

 

[dawrestling]

SUBJECT: Wildcats Shoot Second Round Low 299 to Finish Third at St. Thomas Spring Invitational

DATE: April 9, 2018
djl

BERLIN, Md. - - The Wilmington University golf team shot a second round low score of 299, moving up one spot to finish third overall at the St. Thomas Aquinas Spring Invitational hosted by St. Thomas Aquinas at the Rum Point Golf Course over the weekend.

The Wildcats finished with a 302-299 for a 601 (+25), four strokes off the leaders in both Concordia and Dominican with a 597 (+21). The Wildcats’ 299 was the best team score of the second round, and third best of the weekend.

Wilmington was led by junior Ryan Rucinski who posted a 144, even score total in the two rounds. He shot a 71-73 for his 144, finishing five strokes behind the individual winner.

Sergio Ronchel tied Rucinski with the best round for the Wildcats on Sunday, shooting a 73 to move up 23 spots and finish in a tie for 16th overall. He finished the tournament with a 79-73 for a 152 (+8).

Zac Moore moved up seven slots on the leaderboard with a 74 on Sunday, finishing the tournament with a 75-74 for a 149 (+5). Braden McKay rounded out the Wlidcats scoring on Sunday with a 79, moving up six spots to finish in a tie for 46th overall. He finished the tournament with an 83-79 for a 162 (+18).

Enrique Valverde rounded out the Wildcats team on Sunday with an 81, finishing the tournament in a tie for 40th overall. He shot a 77-81 for a 158 (+14).

Senior Matthew Kettleson rounded up the Wildcats on the course for the weekend, posting a 72-77 for a 149 (+5) to finish with teammate Zac Moore in a tie for ninth place overall. Kettleson was playing as an individual for the tournament.

The Wildcats wrap up their regular season this weekend, heading to the Mike Bello Invitational hosted by Le Moyne College. The two-day tournament starts on Thursday. It is the final tournament before the Wildcats head to the NCAA Division II Atlantic/East Super Regional Tournament in May.

AGATE:

St. Thomas Aquinas Spring Invitational Final

3. Wilmington – 302-299 – 601 (+25)

3. Ryan Rucinski – 71-73 – 144 (E)
T9. Zac Moore – 75-74 – 149 (+5)
T9. Matthew Kettleson – 72-77 – 149 (+5) (individual)
T16. Sergio Ronchel – 79-73 – 152 (+8)
T40. Enrique Valverde – 77-81 – 158 (+14)
T 46. Braden McKay – 83-79 – 162 (+18)

 

[dawrestling]

SUBJECT: Seventh Inning Comeback Falls Just Short as Tigers Earn CACC Split, 7-6, with Softball

DATE: April 9, 2018
djl

NEW CASTLE, Del. - - A seventh inning comeback fell just short for the Wilmington University softball team, as they dropped a Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference make up game against Holy Family, 7-6, on Monday afternoon at Asbury Field.

After falling behind, 3-0, the top of the fifth, the Wildcats scored three runs in the sixth inning but couldn’t complete the comeback in leaving the tying run and game-winning run in scoring position in the bottom of the seventh. The Tigers (2-22, 1-9 CACC) scored four times in the top of the seventh to break the 3-3 tie game.

Down 3-0, Alyssa Velasquez started the bottom of the sixth with a leadoff walk. Now with Velasquez on third with two outs, the Wildcats picked up an RBI single from Annie Davila, a single from Lexi Baughman, and a two-run triple to right field by Jordyn Virden to knot the game at three.

But the Tigers answered quickly, putting four on the board in the top of the seventh. A leadoff bunt started the inning and back-to-back doubles brought in the first three runs with one out. Now with two outs, a single kept the inning alive and the Tigers scored on a throwing error on a first and third play, giving the Wildcats a 7-3 lead.

The Wildcats didn’t roll over, though, as Jazmeen Llamas started the last inning with a leadoff single. Rosa’Lynn Burton tripled to the gap in left center and came home on a sacrifice fly as Alyssa Velasquez fouled out to left field. With the bases empty and two outs, Lauren Lopez recharged the inning with a double to left center. Makayla McCarthy was hit by a pitch and Annie Davila brought the Wildcats to within a single run with an RBI single to center, 7-6.

But the Tigers’ starter Koreen Orozco induced a pop up to shallow right and a long fly ball to right field to end the game, 7-6, with Wildcats on second and third.

Rosa’Lynn Burton with 2-for-4 with a triple while Annie Davila went 2-for-2 with two RBI. Jordyn Virden went 2-for-4 with a triple and two RBI as well.

Makayla McCarthy started the game in the circle for the Wildcats, going 4.2 innings before turning the ball over to Caitlyn Whiteside. Whiteside went 1.2 innings, allowing four runs (three earned) on four hits before McCarthy came back in to close out the seventh.

The Wildcats and Tigers split the regular season CACC series, with the Wildcats winning the opener, 8-5, on April 3 before game two was postponed in the first inning.

The Wildcats return to action on Wednesday when they host USciences in another CACC double-dip at Asbury Field. The first pitch of the doubleheader is scheduled for 2:30 p.m.

 

[dawrestling]

SUBJECT: Offense Shines as Baseball Sweeps USciences, 22-1 and 5-1

DATE: April 11, 2018
djl

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. - - A 22-run outburst highlighted the Wilmington University baseball team’s Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference sweep at USciences on Wednesday, winning 22-1 in the opener before earning the sweep with a 5-1 victory in the nightcap at Richie Asburn Field.

The 22 runs in the opener came on 19 hits with five extra base hits. The Wildcats (14-12, 11-3 CACC) collected 11 more hits in the nightcap and used a three-run seventh inning to secure the doubleheader sweep.

It is the fifth time in program’s NCAA history that they have scored 20 or more runs in a game. The last time came in the 2010 season, a 25-0 victory over Lincoln (Pa.).

Game One:

It didn’t take long for the Wildcats to get the scoring started, putting three on the board in the top of the first inning.

With runners on the corners and one out, Kendall Small hit a two-run triple to right center, chasing Brooks Ryan from third and Max Carney all the way around from right. Small then came in on an error for the 3-0 lead.

Starter Sean Deely then struck out the side in the bottom of the first, getting all three Devils (5-18, 2-10 CACC) looking to keep the momentum in favor of the Wildcats.

Another leadoff bunt sent the stage for the top of the second as the Wildcats began to widen the gap. With runners on second and third, Christian Adorno singled through the left side for the first run of the inning. Max Carney hit a sacrifice fly and Adorno scored on a first and third play following an error. Frank Nigro gave the Wildcats a 7-0 lead with an RBI ground out to end the scoring in the second.

The Wildcats tacked on two more in the fourth and four in the fifth, as Small hit a two-run double in the fifth to put the Wildcats up 13-0. The visitors blew the game wide open in the sixth, scoring seven runs on six hits to lead 20-0 after the inning. Brad Scull hit a bases loaded triple to right for three runs while Adorno and Matt Frost added RBI singles in the inning.

Max Carney went 3-for-4 with three RBI and three runs scored while Small went 2-for-3 with a double and a triple, four RBU and two runs scored. Brooks Ryan, Christian Adorno, Frank Nigro, and Matt Frost all collected two hits with Nigro collecting four RBI in the game.

Starter Sean Deely went seven scoreless innings, striking out eight batters while only allowing four hits and two walks. He improved to 2-2 on the year with the win.

Game Two:

The Wildcats started fast again in the nightcap, but only settled for one run in to the to of the first. The run came with the first batter, as Brooks Ryan is a leadoff home run to right center, putting the Wildcats in front immediately.

Game-two starter Chuck Delagol stranded two Devils on base in the bottom of the second inning and the offense gave him an insurance run in the third.

With two outs and the bases empty, Adorno started a rally with a single to right center. Max Carney walked and Kendall Small singled through the left side, allowing Adorno to race home from second for the 2-0 lead.

The Devils got on the board in the bottom of the fourth inning, hitting a two-out triple to center to scoring a leadoff single. The Devils had a chance to tie the game in the bottom of the sixth, loading the bases with only one out. Matt Frost came on in relief and induced a short fly ball to right field for the second out, and a fly ball to right center to end the inning.

The Wildcats put the game away in the top of the seventh, putting runners on second and third with only one out. Max Carney then singled to right to score Dakota Graham. Brooks Ryan came home on an error by the first baseman and Carney scored the final run of the game as Small doubles to the gap in right center.

Justin Mears appeared in the bottom of the seventh and went 1-2-3 to end the game and earn the sweep.

Kendall Small went 3-for-4 with a double and two RBI while Brooks Ryan went 2-for-4 with his third home run of the season. Christian Adorno batted 2-for-3 while Nick Grant went 2-for-4 as well.

Chuck Delagol improved to 2-2 on the year after going 5.1 innings, allowing one run on four hits. He struck out three batters while giving up two walks.

Up Next:

The Wildcats return to CACC action on Friday when they host Chestnut Hill at Wilson Field. They swept the Griffins last Friday in Philadelphia. The first pitch of the doubleheader is scheduled for 12:00 p.m.

 

[dawrestling]

SUBJECT: Two Different Style Games but Same Results as Softball Sweeps USciences, 9-2 and 2-1

DATE: April 11, 2018
djl

NEW CASTLE, Del. - - The Wilmington University softball team swept a Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference doubleheader from USciences, using two different types of styles with a 9-2 victory in the opener before a 2-1 pitchers’ duel in the nightcap on Wednesday afternoon at Asbury Field.

The Wildcats (21-12, 9-4 CACC) used 14 hits in the opener, scoring three runs in three separate innings before needing the strong pitching from Makayla McCarthy and a timely hit in the bottom of the sixth in the nightcap for the sweep.

Game One:

Despite jumping out to a quick 3-0 lead after the top of the first, the Wildcats needed a three-run answer in the bottom of the fourth and a three-run six inning to put away the Devils (8-20, 5-9 CACC).

With runners on first and third in the first, Rosa’Lynn Burton was able to trot home as a throw from the catcher sailed into center field. Alyssa Velasquez then singled through the right side to score Jazmeen Llamas for the 2-0 lead. Two batters later, Lauren Lopez added to the lead with a single through the right side, plating Velasquez for the 3-0 advantage.

The Devils finally got to game one starter Caitlyn Whiteside in the fourth, hitting back-to-back doubles to start the inning. With one out and a runner on third, a chopper to Velasquez at short was fielded and thrown home, but her throw was up the first base line, bringing the Devils to within 3-2.

But the Wildcats had an answer in the bottom of the fourth, putting runners on first and third with only one out. Burton then singled back up the middle to bring in a run before Llamas followed with a single back up the middle to bring in Caitlyn Whiteside from second. Velasquez finished off the scoring with a squeeze bunt, allowing Burton to race home without a throw for the sacrifice.

The Wildcats put the game away with three more runs in the bottom of the sixth. With runners on second and third and no outs, Llamas singled back up the middle for another RBI before Burton raced home again on a wild pitch. Annie Davila capped the scoring with an RBI single to left, chasing Llamas home.

Whiteside scattered two hits the rest of the way after allowing the two runs in the fourth. She finished off the Devils with a comebacker into the circle for the final out of the game.

Llamas went 4-for-4 with two RBI and two runs scored while Jordyn Virden went 3-for-4 with a run scored. Lauren Lopez collected two hits while Velasquez finished with two RBI. Whiteside had the only extra base hit with a double.

Whiteside improved to 11-5 with the complete game win, striking out six while only allowing two runs (one earned) on five hits and a walk.

Game Two:

The nightcap proved to be the Makayla McCarthy and Alyssa Velasquez show, with a little slice of Lauren Lopez in the bottom of the sixth.

McCarthy worked out of a tough first inning by only allowing one unearned run after two errors put the first two runners on base. McCarthy induced a fly ball to left for the second out and the Wildcats turned it into a pair, catching the runner advancing to second on the play. But the runner form third scored before the third out was applied, putting the Wildcats up, 1-0.

Velasquez answered in the bottom of the first, hitting her first career home run with a line drive blast to right center. The only question was if it was high enough to get over the fence on its way out.

The Wildcats left two runners in scoring position in the fourth inning, but starting pitchers Kaitlyn Gaynor and Makayla McCarthy were nearly untouchable until the sixth inning.

Velasquez hit a one-out single to get things started before McCarthy’s sacrifice bunt went between the pitcher and third baseman for a single instead. Lauren Lopez then dropped one in front of the right fielder and the throw to plate was off the mark as Velasquez slid home for the 2-1 lead.

McCarthy then struck out the final two batted in the seventh to close out the 2-1 sweep.

Velasquez was a triple shy of the cycle, going 3-for-3 with a home run and a double with an RBI and two runs scored. McCarthy and Lopez rounded out the Wildcats’ five hits.

McCarthy struck out 10 Devils in improving to 9-7 on the season. She allowed an unearned run on three hits while not issuing a walk.

The Devils’ Kaitlyn Gaynor struck out nine while not allowing a walk, giving up two runs on five hits in the loss.

Up Next:

The Wildcats travel to Dominican for their next CACC doubleheader on Saturday afternoon. The first pitch is scheduled for 12:00 p.m.

 

[dawrestling]

SUBJECT: Begona Gomar Leads Comeback Effort for Women’s Tennis in 7-2 Victory at LIU Post

DATE: April 14, 2018
djl

BROOKVILLE, N.Y. - - The Wilmington University women’s tennis team ended the 2017-18 regular season on a high note, coming back to defeat NCAA Division II East Regionally ranked No. 8 LIU Post, 7-2, sweeping all six singles matches on Saturday afternoon at the LIU Post Tennis Courts.

The Wildcats (12-8) trailed the Pioneers (8-4), 2-1, following the three doubles matches, but stormed back by taking all six singles matches, including a pair of comeback victories, to claim the match.

The Pioneers took No. 1 and No. 2 doubled, but the Wildcats were able to get a point at No. 3 doubles, 8-1, anchored by Tess Paya and Sabrina Blasi-Smith.

The Pioneers had wins number three and four in their sights by winning the first set at each No. 1 and No. 2 singles. But Begona Gomar and Laura Gil battled back in each match, respectively.

Squaring off against the fourth ranked singled player in the East Region, and 65th in the nation, Gomar evened the match with a 6-4 victory in the second set. She then capped the comeback with another 6-4 victory in the tiebreak set, earning the victory.

Gil dropped the first set but evened the match with a 6-3 victory in the second. The third set was tightly contested, but Gil was able to earn the comeback victory with a 7-5 victory in the tiebreak.

Anushka Sathe won her match at No. 3, 6-2 and 6-2, while Tess Paya played well again with a win at No. 4 singles, 6-4 and 6-0. Andrea Ribalta won her match at No. 5 singles, 6-1 and 6-0, while Sabrina Blasi-Smith capped the singles sweep with a 6-0 and 6-4 victory at No. 6 singles.

The Wildcats were not ranked in the latest NCAA East Regional Poll but did all they could do to try and help their positioning for the final poll with a tough win over LIU Post.

 

[dawrestling]

SUBJECT: Late Game Runs Secure CACC Sweep for Softball, 4-1 and 3-2, at Dominican

DATE: April 14, 2018
djl

ORANGEBURG, N.Y. - - The Wilmington University softball team scored late in the game in both ends of a Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference doubleheader at Dominican, earning a sweep, 4-1 and 3-2, on Saturday afternoon at the DC Softball Field.

The Wildcats (23-12, 11-4 CACC) struck first in even contest, but it came down to the final three at-bats in each game and the visitors pulled out the close victories.

Game One:

The ball landed over the fence four times in the opener, accounting for the only scoring of the contest. Good thing for the Wildcats, three of the blasts came off the Wilmington bats as they rode the arm of Makayla McCarthy to a 4-1 win.

The pitcher gave herself a 1-0 lead in the top of the second, hitting a leadoff homer to left field for her first collegiate career home run. But the Chargers (14-12, 11-5 CACC) wasted little time in answering, as Taylor Daniels hit a leadoff home run in the bottom of the second to quickly tie the game, 1-1.

McCarthy only allowed one hit in the third and fourth innings, waiting for the offense to come back around. Lexi Baughman walked to start the top of the fifth inning and Rosa’Lynn Burton brought Baughman and herself all the way around with a two-run homer to center field to put the Wildcats back on top, 3-1.

The Chargers were unable to retaliate in the bottom of the fifth inning this time around as McCarthy went 1-2-3 with two strikeouts to hold the lead. The Chargers got a leadoff double in the sixth, but she was left at third as McCarthy picked up another strikeout to end the frame.

The Wildcats added an insurance run in the top of the seventh, this time off the bat of Lexi Baughman as she led off the inning with a solo jack to center field for the 4-1 lead. McCarthy closed out the victory with a 1-2-3 bottom of the seventh.

McCarthy improved to 10-7 with a complete game three-hitter, striking out 10 batters while only allowing two walks. Burton went 3-for-4 with two RBI while five other Wildcats had one hit each.

Game Two:

The Wildcats struck early again in the nightcap, but needed a seventh inning run to secure the 3-2 win and the sweep.

Rosa’Lynn Burton started the game off with a single up the middle, setting the wheels in motion yet again. With two stolen bases, Burton was standing on third, and eventually came home on Lauren Lopez reached on an error with two outs, giving the Wildcats a 1-0 lead.

The home run bug hit the Wildcats again in the second, as the Charger tied the game with a solo jack off starter Caitlyn Whiteside.

The Wildcats answered in the top of the third, however, as the top of the order produced again. Alyssa Velasquez stood at first with two outs and moved to second on a wild pitch. Annie Davila singled into right field and Velasquez was waved around to put the Wildcats in front, 2-1.

Whiteside only allowed one hit in the third, fourth, and fifth innings combined before the Chargers were able to knot the game in the bottom of the sixth. A leadoff single and sacrifice bunt where the runner took two bags set up a sacrifice fly to tie the game, 2-2.

A two-out rally in the top of the seventh turned the game towards the Wildcats once again. Jazmeen Llamas hit a two-out double to right center and Alyssa Velasquez knocked her in with a two-out single to center for the 3-2 lead.

Whiteside then picked up a ground out, a strikeout, and a fly out in a 1-2-3 bottom of the seventh for the sweep.

Whiteside moved to 12-5 on the year with the complete game victory, allowing two runs on five hits while striking out three. Burton batted 3-for-4 with a run scored when Llamas went 2-for-3 with a double. Velasquez, Davila, and Lopez each collected one hit apiece.

Up Next:

Sunday’s scheduled doubleheader against Concordia has been rescheduled once again, due to the rain that is expected to hit the are starting later tonight. The doubleheader is rescheduled for Monday, April 30 at 2:30 at Asbury Field. The Wildcats will now play again on Tuesday afternoon at Jefferson. First pitch is set for 2:30 p.m.

 

[dawrestling]

SUBJECT: Baseball Breaks Team Hit Record in Nightcap, Splits CACC Twinbill at Concordia

DATE: April 14, 2018
djl

BRONXVILLE, N.Y. - - A program breaking 24-hit barrage in game two salvaged a Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference split for the Wilmington University baseball team, as Concordia won the opener, 6-4, before the visitors came back with a vengeance in a 22-2 victory in the nightcap at the Clipper Baseball Field.

The Wildcats (16-14, 13-5 CACC) lost another late inning lead in the opener, allowing a four-run eighth inning as the Clippers (14-15, 10-6 CACC) came back to steal game one. The Wildcats came back and scored in every inning but the eighth in the nightcap, breaking a program record with 24 base hits in game two.

The hits record was set twice, first on April 11, 2007 with 23 hits against USciences and again four years ago to the day with 23 hits at USciences.

Game One:

The Wildcats held a 4-2 lead going into the bottom of the eighth inning, but the Clippers scored four runs in the bottom of the inning to claim the 6-4 victory.

The Wildcats only collected three hits in the opener, but used eight walks to their advantage in the early going.

The first three batters walked to lead off the game for the Wildcats, but the Clippers were able to limit the damage in the inning as Kendall Small hit into a double play. A run came on to score for the Wildcats, but the Clippers got out of the jam with another ground ball to end the inning.

The Clippers answered in the bottom of the first with a two-out single through the right side, tying the game, 1-1.

The Wildcats again loaded the bases with no outs in the third, and took the lead with a Frank Nigro single to right. But The Clippers induced another ground ball double play to break up the momentum, only allowing the Wildcats to score two in the frame. The Wildcats tacked on another in the fourth, aided by another leadoff walk. Christian Adorno eventually brought in Nick Macey with a sacrifice fly, giving the Wildcats a 4-1 lead.

Starter Zach Rumford set down 11 straight Clippers after the RBI single in the first. But the Clippers broke it up with a homer down the right field line, cutting the lead to 4-2. Rumford worked around a leadoff double in the bottom of the seventh, but couldn’t do the same in the bottom of the eighth.

With two outs and the bases empty, the Clippers hit back-to-back singles and a walk to load the bases before a hit-by-pitch brought in a run. Tyler Campbell spelled Rumford but walked in the inning’s second run, tying the game, 4-4. Justin Mears came on to pitch, but the Clippers picked a two-run single before the inning was finally over, taking the lead, 6-4.

Nick Macey started the top of the ninth with a single, but he was left at first as the Clippers set the next three Wildcats down to end the game.

Rumford struck out 12 Clippers, but fell to 3-2 on the year with the tough loss. He allowed six runs on eight hits with one walk. Kendall Small, Frank Nigro, and Nick Macey accounted for the three Wildcat hits.

Game Two:

The frustrations of not hitting in game one billowed over into the nightcap, as the Wildcats scorched the Clippers with 222 runs on 24 hits. They scored runs in all but the eighth innings, including multiple runs in six of their nine at-bats.

Max Carney opened the scoring with a three-run long ball to right in the top of the first, hitting his third home run of the year for the quick 3-0 lead.

Nick Grant homered in the top of the second inning, capping a six-run, five hit frame for the Wildcats. Dakota Graham, Brooks Ryan, and Carney all collected RBI hits in the inning before Grant tagged his first homer of the year to center to give the Wildcats a 9-0 lead.

Four more runs crossed the plate in the third as Christian Adorno doubled to right and Carney added two more RBI with a single up the middle. Frank Nigro legged out an infield single to score Carney, bringing the score to 13-0 after three at-bats.

Dakota Graham doubled in two runs in the top of the fifth and Frank Nigro hit another RBI single in the sixth for the 17-2 advantage.

Zach Rumford hit an RBI single in the seventh before Sean Deely capped the scoring in a big way in the ninth, hitting a three-run bomb to right, bringing the Wildcats to a 22-2 lead.

Brad Scull went the first seven innings for the Wildcats, allowing two runs on 10 hits, striking out five batters while now giving up a walk. Zach Frederick pitched the final two innings, striking out four while not allowing a hit to cap the victory.

Brooks Ryan, Max Carney, Kendall Small, Frank Nigro, and Nick Macey all collected three hits in the nightcap, with Carney leading all batters with six RBI.

Up Next:

The Wildcats are scheduled to play Dominican on Sunday in a rescheduled doubleheader. Rain is expected in the area on Sunday, so stay tuned to athletics.wilmu.edu for all of the Wildcats’ updates. First pitch is scheduled for 12:00 p.m. at Wilson Field.

 

[dawrestling]

SUBJECT: Four-Run First Leads Baseball to 2018 Bill Giles Invitational Championship over No. 19 West Chester, 6-1

DATE: April 17, 2018
djl

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. - - Nine different pitchers and an early lead provided the Wilmington University baseball team with its third Bill Giles Invitational Championship, defeating No. 19 West Chester, 6-1, at Citizens Bank Park on Wednesday afternoon.

It is the first Bill Giles Invitational Championship since 2014, with the Wildcats (17-14) also winning in 2007. The Wildcats defeated Jefferson, 6-3, in the first round before advancing to play at Citizens Bank Park, home of the Philadelphia Phillies. The Wildcats last played for the championship at Citizens Bank Park in 2015.

The offense gave the Wildcats all they needed in the top of the first, as they produced four runs on four hits while being aided with an error.

Christian Adorno started the inning with a one-out single before stealing second. Standing on second with two outs, Adorno opened the scoring by coming home on an RBI single to left center off the bat of Kendall Small. Frank Nigro kept the inning going with a single into center field, scoring Small from second for the 2-0 lead.

A dropped fly ball in right kept the inning alive for the Wildcats and Nick Macey made the Golden Rams (20-9) pay with a single off the glove of a diving first baseman, plating two more for the 4-0 lead.

Head coach Brian August kept the Golden Rams bats out of sync by using a new pitcher every inning, getting 1-2-3 innings from Zach Rumford and Matt Danz and a 6-4-3 double play to end the third form Bryce Carney. Noah Latshaw gave up a two-out double but fielded his position nicely and got the third out on a comebacker to the mount in the fourth. Ryan Bradigan produced a 1-2-3 inning in the fifth frame, and the offense added insurance runs for the rest of the game.

With one out and runners on first and third, an error at second base allowed the Wildcats to score the first run and take a 5-0 lead. Kendall Small then hit into a fielder’s choice to first, but the double play ball coming back to first was off the mark, allowing Adorno to trot home for the 6-0 lead.

Zach Frederick shut the door in the sixth while only allowing a two-out single. The Golden Rams best chance came in the seventh inning, but Matt Frost relieved Tyler Campbell and got out of a bases loaded jam with two outs, inducing a grounder to third to only allow one run in the inning.

Frost stayed in and retired all three batters in the eighth before Justin Mears closed things out in the ninth.

Kendall Small went 3-for-5 with an RBI and a run scored in his first appearance at Citizens Bank Park while Adorno batted 2-for-5 with two runs scored. Nick Macey was the final Wildcat with multiple hits, going 2-for-5 with two RBI.

Zach Rumford was awarded the win on the bullpen day, pitching a perfect first inning after acquiring the lead.

The Wildcats return to Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference action on Wednesday, as they face USciences at Wilson Field in a doubleheader. The first pitch is slated for 12:00 p.m.

 

[dawrestling]

SUBJECT: Rosa’Lynn Burton Breaks Triples Record, Softball Extends Winning Streak to Six Straight with Sweep at Jefferson

DATE: April 17, 2018
djl

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. - - The Wilmington University softball team used its bats to secure a Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference doubleheader sweep at Jefferson, 9-0 and 6-4, to extend its winning streak to six straight games on Tuesday afternoon at the Jefferson Softball Field.

The Wildcats (25-12, 13-4 CACC) scored eight of their nine runs in the final three at-bats in the opener before scoring in the first two innings in the nightcap to lead to the CACC sweep. The Wildcats collected 11 hits in game one and eight more hits in game two.

Game One:

Leading 1-0 after four complete innings, the Wildcats broke out with a three run fifth, a two-run sixth, and a three-run seventh inning to widen the margin and win going away.

Makayla McCarthy gave herself a 1-0 lead in the top of the second, leading off the inning with a solo homer to left. With two runners on in the top of the fifth, Rosa’Lynn Burton hit a two-run triple to center field before coming home on an RBI ground out by Jazmeen Llamas

Burton’s triple was one for the record books, as she surpassed Christin Headley’s all-time record of 11 triples in her career. Burton collected seven triples as a freshman and now has 13 after two triples on Tuesday.

An error brought in the first run in the sixth before Mirabella Klebart gave the Wildcats a 6-0 lead with an RBI single.

Alyssa Velasquez collected an RBI in the top of the seventh before Lauren Lopez closed the scoring with a two-out, two-run single to right center.

Makayla McCarthy went the distance for the complete game shutout, striking out nine batters while not walking a Ram (13-15, 9-7 CACC).

Burton went 4-for-4 with a triple, two RBI and two runs scored. Lopez batted 3-for-4 with two RBI and a run scored. McCarthy batted 1-for-2 with a homer and three runs scored.

Game Two:

The bats continued in the early innings of the nightcap, scoring two runs in each of the first two frames. They plated two more in the top of the fourth and secured the sweep, 6-4.

Rosa’Lynn Burton remained red hot with her second triple of the afternoon to start game two and quickly came home as Jazmeen Llamas hit a bunt single. Llamas eventually came home on a wild pitch to make it 2-0.

Jordyn Virden walked to start the second and Burton was able to knock her around with an RBI double back up the middle. Alyssa Velasquez hit a fly ball to center with Burton on third, giving the Wildcats an early 4-0 lead.

Game two starter Caitlyn Whiteside allowed a two-out, three-run homer in the bottom of the second, but only gave up three hits in the other six innings combined.

The Wildcats got two of those runs back in the top of the fourth, getting a one-out RBI double from Makayla McCarthy and an RBI ground out from Lauren Lopez.

Whiteside set the Rams down in order in the bottom of the fourth, fifth, and sixth innings, but gave up a two-out RBI single in the bottom of the ninth. Whiteside moved to 13-5 on the season as she induced a ground out back to the circle for the final out.

Whiteside struck out seven Rams while only allowing five hits and one walk. Burton, Llamas, and McCarthy all collected two hits, with Burton hitting two extra base hits.

Next Up:

The Wildcats will put their six-game winning streak on the line on Wednesday afternoon when they travel o West Chester for a nonconference doubleheader. The first pitch is scheduled for 2:00 p.m.

 

[dawrestling]

SUBJECT: Rosa’Lynn Burton Breaks Triples Record, Softball Extends Winning Streak to Six Straight with Sweep at Jefferson

DATE: April 17, 2018
djl

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. - - The Wilmington University softball team used its bats to secure a Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference doubleheader sweep at Jefferson, 9-0 and 6-4, to extend its winning streak to six straight games on Tuesday afternoon at the Jefferson Softball Field.

The Wildcats (25-12, 13-4 CACC) scored eight of their nine runs in the final three at-bats in the opener before scoring in the first two innings in the nightcap to lead to the CACC sweep. The Wildcats collected 11 hits in game one and eight more hits in game two.

Game One:

Leading 1-0 after four complete innings, the Wildcats broke out with a three run fifth, a two-run sixth, and a three-run seventh inning to widen the margin and win going away.

Makayla McCarthy gave herself a 1-0 lead in the top of the second, leading off the inning with a solo homer to left. With two runners on in the top of the fifth, Rosa’Lynn Burton hit a two-run triple to center field before coming home on an RBI ground out by Jazmeen Llamas

Burton’s triple was one for the record books, as she surpassed Christin Headley’s all-time record of 11 triples in her career. Burton collected seven triples as a freshman and now has 13 after two triples on Tuesday.

An error brought in the first run in the sixth before Mirabella Klebart gave the Wildcats a 6-0 lead with an RBI single.

Alyssa Velasquez collected an RBI in the top of the seventh before Lauren Lopez closed the scoring with a two-out, two-run single to right center.

Makayla McCarthy went the distance for the complete game shutout, striking out nine batters while not walking a Ram (13-15, 9-7 CACC).

Burton went 4-for-4 with a triple, two RBI and two runs scored. Lopez batted 3-for-4 with two RBI and a run scored. McCarthy batted 1-for-2 with a homer and three runs scored.

Game Two:

The bats continued in the early innings of the nightcap, scoring two runs in each of the first two frames. They plated two more in the top of the fourth and secured the sweep, 6-4.

Rosa’Lynn Burton remained red hot with her second triple of the afternoon to start game two and quickly came home as Jazmeen Llamas hit a bunt single. Llamas eventually came home on a wild pitch to make it 2-0.

Jordyn Virden walked to start the second and Burton was able to knock her around with an RBI double back up the middle. Alyssa Velasquez hit a fly ball to center with Burton on third, giving the Wildcats an early 4-0 lead.

Game two starter Caitlyn Whiteside allowed a two-out, three-run homer in the bottom of the second, but only gave up three hits in the other six innings combined.

The Wildcats got two of those runs back in the top of the fourth, getting a one-out RBI double from Makayla McCarthy and an RBI ground out from Lauren Lopez.

Whiteside set the Rams down in order in the bottom of the fourth, fifth, and sixth innings, but gave up a two-out RBI single in the bottom of the ninth. Whiteside moved to 13-5 on the season as she induced a ground out back to the circle for the final out.

Whiteside struck out seven Rams while only allowing five hits and one walk. Burton, Llamas, and McCarthy all collected two hits, with Burton hitting two extra base hits.

Next Up:

The Wildcats will put their six-game winning streak on the line on Wednesday afternoon when they travel o West Chester for a nonconference doubleheader. The first pitch is scheduled for 2:00 p.m.

 

[dawrestling]

SUBJECT: Chris Smith’s Goal With Nine Seconds Left Secures Playoff Berth for Men’s Lacrosse in 9-8 Win at Dominican

DATE: April 17, 2018
djl

HILLBURN, N.Y. - - A second half comeback and a game-winner with nine seconds left in regulation gave the Wilmington University men’s lacrosse a 9-8 Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference victory over Dominican on Tuesday afternoon at the Torne Valley Complex.

With the win and one game to play in the regular season, the Wildcats (4-7, 2-2 CACC) hold a one-game lead over Dominican (2-11, 1-3 CACC) and the head-to-head tiebreaker, securing a spot in the first CACC Tournament in the program’s first season.

Clinching a playoff berth did not come easy for the Wildcats, however, trailing 5-2 at the halftime break after the Chargers scored all four goals of the second quarter.

The Chargers came out of the break and scored the first goal of the third quarter, taking their largest lead of the game, 6-2, with 13:45 to play in the third. But the Wildcats scored quick back-to-back goals from Dylan McCleaft and Josh Burley to get to within 6-4. After the Chargers scored again, the Wildcats tallied the final three goals of the quarter, getting goals from John Novak, Cory Melvin, and Josh Burley to tie the game, 7-7, heading into the fourth. Burley’s goal barely beat the clock, coming with one second left in the quarter.

The Chargers again scored the opening goal of the fourth quarter, moving in front with 9:29 showing on the clock. But John Novak quickly retaliated for the Wildcats, seeing just 22 seconds leave the clock before he tied the game, 8-8, with 9:07 to play.

Dominican had chances following the game-tying goal, but Wilmington netminder Noah Given came up with four saves in the waning moments, including stops with 1:55 and 1:02 to play.

A Charger turnover with 48 seconds left gave the Wildcats a chance and they moved the ball into the offensive zone successfully. The Wildcats wound the clock down until Chris Smith ripped the back of the net with just nine second showing on the clock. The Wildcats won the ensuing face-off and ran off the remainder of the time for the win.

The Wildcats were outshot in the game, 41-27, but Noah Given made 15 saves in the win, five coming in the fourth quarter alone to give the Wildcats a chance.

John Novak led the offense with three goals while Josh Burley scored two goals. Cory Melvin scored a goal and added an assist while James Colligan, Dylan McCleaft, and Chris Smith all scored once. Jake Gies finished with one assist.

Kyle Leary and Jon Howell led the defense with two caused turnovers while Noah Given, John Novak, and Jon Howell finished with a team high four ground balls. Chris Smith went 4-for-5 in the face-off circle while Jake Gies went 6-for-14.

The Wildcats round out the regular season at home on Saturday, squaring off against Chestnut Hill. Seeding for the upcoming CACC Tournament is still yet to be determined with one game to play. The opening face-off is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. at the WU Athletics Complex.

 

[dawrestling]

SUBJECT: Baseball Extends Streak to Six Straight with 6-5 and 7-1 Sweep at Goldey-Beacom

DATE: April 20, 2018
djl

WILMINGTON, Del. - - The Wilmington University baseball team extended its winning streak to six games on Friday, riding the arms of their starters in a Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference doubleheader at Goldey-Beacom, 6-5 and 7-1, at Doyle Field.

The Wildcats (21-14, 17-5 CACC) used a five-run seventh inning to come back in the opener before jumping out to a 4-0 lead in the nightcap to earn the sweep. Game one starter Zach Rumford struck out 10 while going eight innings before Brad Scull went the distance with 11 strikeouts in a seven-inning complete game in the nightcap.

Game One:

The Wildcats scored first in the opener in the top of the third, but the Lightning (14-24-1, 12-12 CACC) responded by scoring two runs in the third, one in the fourth, and two more in the bottom of the fifth to take a 5-1 lead.

The Wildcats retaliated in the top of the seventh to swing the momentum. With one out, Dakota Graham was hit by a pitch and Gage Walklett and Brooks Ryan walked to load the bases. A wild pitch brought he first run in before Christian Adorno singled in a run to get the Wildcats to within 5-3. Max Carney hit a sacrifice fly for the second out of the inning before an error allowed two runs to cross for the 6-5 lead.

Rumford struck out the side in the bottom of the seventh and then induced a 6-4-3 double play to end the bottom of the eighth to end his day. Justin Mears checked in and allowed a one out single but picked up a strikeout and induced a grounder to end the game.

Rumford struck out 10 batters while allowing five runs on seven hits. He did not allow a walk while improving to 5-2 on the year. Mears picked up his sixth save on the season.

Six different Wildcats collected one hit in the game with Christian Adorno and Max Carney picking up an RBI in the win.

Game Two:

The Wildcats started game two with a single run in the top of the first and three more runs in the top of the second to take control of the nightcap.

Kendall Small hit a two-out RBI single to center in the top of the first before they put three more on the board in the top of the second. All the runs in the second came with two outs in the inning.

Nick Macey started the inning with a leadoff double but the Lightning picked up two strikeouts. Kyle Fries followed through with an RBI single to left center for the 2-0 lead. Brooks Ryan singled and Christian Adorno walked to load the bases. Max Carney hit a double to right center to score two more, giving the Wildcats a 4-0 lead after two.

Game two starter Brad Scull gave up an unearned run in the bottom of the second but retired eighth straight from the third to fifth innings. He struck out three in the sixth and left a two-out single on first in the seventh to secure the sweep.

Adorno walked with the bases loaded in the sixth before Max Carney finished the scoring with a bases loaded, two run single through the left side for the 7-1 lead.

Scull improved to 8-1 on the year with striking out 11 batters with only two walks. He allowed one unearned run on five hits. Max Carney went 2-for-4 with a double and four RBI while Nick Macey went 2-for-4 with a double and two runs scored.

Up Next:

The Wildcats return to CACC action on Saturday afternoon, as they head to Bloomfield for a cross-divisional doubleheader. The first pitch is set for 12:00 p.m.

 

[dawrestling]

SUBJECT: Baseball Scores Late in Games in 6-3 and 7-1 Sweep at Bloomfield, Extends Winning Streak to Eight

DATE: April 21, 2018
djl

NEWARK, N.J. - - The Wilmington University baseball team needed to come from behind but scored late with crooked numbers to extend its winning streak to eight streak with a Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference doubleheader sweep over Bloomfield, 6-3 and 7-1, on Saturday afternoon at West Side Park.

Trailing 2-0 after four innings in the opener, the Wildcats (23-14, 19-5 CACC) put a five spot on the board in the top of the fifth to take command. Trailing 1-0 after six innings in the nightcap, the Wildcats posted three runs in the top of the seventh while scoring three more in the ninth for insurance runs.

Game One:

The Bears (11-18-1, 6-12 CACC) scored two in the bottom of the first inning off game on starter Ryan Bradigan, but the freshman settled in and went five full in the start.

The Wildcats scored five in the top of the fifth inning to help give Bradigan his first collegiate win. Nick Grant singled and Dakota Graham walked to start the inning. Two batters later, Brooks Ryan was hit by a pitch to load the bases with one out. A wild pitch brought in the first run before Max Carney singled to tie the game, 2-2. Kendall Small gave the Wildcats the lead for good with a two-run double. Still with one out, Frank Nigro put the presser on with a ground ball while an error allowed Carney to score for the 5-2 lead.

The Bears hit a one out sacrifice fly in the bottom of the fifth, but Bradigan got a liner to be caught by Gage Walklett at third for the final out, ending his outing as well.

Nigro helped the Wildcats with an insurance run in the top of the seventh, hitting an RBI single to score Brooks Ryan from third.

Freshman Matt Danz relieved Bradigan in the sixth and retired all nine batters he faced with four strikeouts to preserve the Wildcats’ lead. Justin Mears came on in the ninth and induced a game-ending 5-3 double play for his seventh save of the season.

Brooks Ryan and Nick Grant collected two hits each for the Wildcats while Small and Nigro led the team with two RBI each.

Game Two:

Game-two starter Nick Grant didn’t allow a hit in the nightcap until the fourth inning, but the Bears turned a leadoff double into a run and a 1-0 lead.

The offense left seven runners on base through the first six innings, but finally converted in the top of the seventh to take the lead.

An error put runners on the corners with only out for the Wildcats. The Wildcats again scored their first run of the game on a wild pitch. Now with runners on second and third, Max Carney doubled to bring in Brooks Ryan and Christian Adorno for the 3-1 lead.

Nick Grant left a runner on third base in the bottom of the seventh, ending his outing but in line for the win.

Christian Adorno forced in a run with a bases loaded walk (his seventh walk of the day) in the top of the eighth for the 4-1 lead.

The Wildcats put the game away in the top of the ninth with a three-run inning. Kendall Small started the inning off with a solo shot for his first home run of the year. Nigro walked and Nick Macey singled to restart a rally and Nigro eventually came around to score on an error. Kyle Fries then made it hurt with an RBI triple for the 7-1 advantage.

Zach Frederick tossed a 1-2-3 inning in the eighth and Noah Latshaw shut the door in the ninth for the team’s eighth straight victory.

Max Carney and Nick Macey collected two hits each, with each hitting a double as well. Carney led the team with two RBI in the nightcap.

Nick Grant struck out seven in seven innings, allowing one run on five hits to improve to 3-1 on the year.

Up Next:

The Wildcats step away from CACC play for their next contest, as they head to PSAC rival Kutztown on Tuesday afternoon. The single, nine-inning game is scheduled for a 3:00 p.m. first pitch.

 

[dawrestling]

SUBJECT: Wilmington Softball Secures No Worse Than Second Place in CACC with Split of Post on Senior Day

DATE: April 28, 2018
djl

NEW CASTLE, Del. - - The Wilmington University softball team split a Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference doubleheader against Post for Senior Day on Saturday, winning the opener, 5-3, before dropping the nightcap, 3-1, at Asbury Field.

The Wildcats (33-15, 19-5 CACC) celebrated the career of their lone senior Keara McCarthy and team manager Kaley Smith prior to the start of the doubleheader. It was a freshman and two sophomores led the Wildcats in the opener, however, and then the Wildcats left the bases loaded with no out in the seventh in falling in the nightcap.

Game One:

The younger McCarthy sister, Makayla McCarthy, led the Wildcats to the game one victory, tying her season high with 14 strikeouts in improving to 16-8 overall. She also went 1-for-3 with a two-run double at the plate in the opener.

Leadoff hitter Rosa’Lynn Burton started the scoring in the bottom of the third, as the Wildcats scored three runs after two outs and the bases empty. Burton lined a homer down the fight field line, her fourth of the year, for the 1-0 lead.

Jazmeen Llamas and Alyssa Velasquez kept the inning going with singles before Makayla McCarthy hit a double in the gap to left center to score both runners and take a 3-0 lead.

The Eagles (18-22, 16-8 CACC) quickly cut into the deficit in the top of the fourth, getting a two-run, two-out homer from Demi Rivera. The Wildcats had an answer in the bottom of the inning, as Burton responded with a two-out, RBI double to left field, plating Keara McCarthy to regain a 4-2 lead.

Another two-out homer gave Post life in the top of the fifth, this time a solo blast to bring the score to 4-3. But the Wildcats again answered in the bottom of the inning, as Lexi Buaghman reached on an error, allowing Velasquez to score and take a 5-3 lead.

Makayla McCarthy left a one-out single on first in the sixth and set the Eagles down in order in the seventh to secure the victory. She struck out 14 with only one walk, allowing three runs on five hits.

Rosa’Lynn Burton went 2-for-4 with a double, two RBI, and a run scored. Alyssa Velasquez went 2-for-3 with a double and two runs scored in the win.

Game Two:

The Wildcats needed to fight from behind in the nightcap, as Post came out and scored twice in the second and one more in the third to take a quick, 3-0, lead.

A Wildcat did not reach base until the fourth inning, as Burton extended her hitting streak to 15-straight games with a leadoff single up the middle. The Wildcats left two runners on as the inning ended.

They were able to get on the board in the fifth, as Mirabella Klebart doubled to the gap in left center with two outs, chasing Lexi Baughman home, 3-1. But they left two more runners on base in the inning.

The Wildcats had a chance in the seventh, as Lexi Baughman and Keara McCarthy started the inning with singles before Annie Davila was hit by a pitch to load the bases with no outs. But Klebart struck out, Burton fouled out, and Llamas grounded one back to the pitcher at the Eagles escaped the jam and won the game.

Game two starter Caitlyn Whiteside settled in after the third inning, but dropped to 16-7 on the year with the loss. She struck out a pair while allowing three runs (one earned) on six hits. Five different Wildcats accounted for the team’s five hits.

Up Next:

The Wildcats have earned at least the second best record in the CACC with the game one win. They have two games remaining before the CACC Tournament starts next Thursday. They will face Concordia on Monday at Asbury Field starting at 1:00 p.m.

 

[dawrestling]

SUBJECT: Wildcats Win Opener Against Dominican, 9-2, but Errors Harm Wildcats in Nightcap, 11-5

DATE: April 30, 2018
djl

NEW CASTLE, Del. - - The Wilmington University baseball team lost a late game lead in the nightcap of a Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference doubleheader with Dominican on Monday, splitting the day by winning the opener, 9-2, before dropping game two, 11-5, at Wilson Field.

The Wildcats (28-18, 23-9 CACC) belted 13 hits in the opener but were haunted by six errors in the nightcap, resulting in seven unearned runs. The Wildcats held a 5-4 lead after six innings, but allowed seven runs over the final three innings in the loss.

Game One:

The Wildcats scored two runs in the bottom of the second and never looked back, putting the game away with a three-run fifth inning to take a 6-0 lead.

A throwing error on a stolen base brought in the first run for the Wildcats. With the bases loaded and two outs, Max Carney laid a perfect bunt down the third base side, scoring Dakota Graham for the quick 2-0 lead.

Graham came up again in the third inning and gave the Wildcats a 3-0 lead with a sacrifice fly to left, scoring Kyle Fries from third.

Dakota Graham was in the thick of things once again in the fifth, as Frank NIgro led off the inning with and a single and was moved up 90 feet by a sacrifice bunt from Nick Macey. Graham singled back up the middle, chasing Nigro home from second.

With runners on first and third, a wild pitch brought in Graham for the 5-0 lead before Brooks Ryan launched an RBI triple off the base of the fence in right field to chase Charger starter John-Michael Broderick.

After the Chargers broke the shutout attempt in the eighth, the Wildcats got the run back and more in the bottom half. A wild pitch and a throwing error brought in Christian Adorno and Kendall Small ended the scoring for the Wildcats with a sacrifice fly.

Wildcat starter Sean Deely went seven scoreless innings while striking out five and allowing four hits. HE improved to 5-1 on the year with the win. Bryce Carney allowing a run in his eighth inning of work before Micky Foytik closed the game out with allowing a run in the ninth inning.

Nick Grant went 3-for-4 while Brooks Ryan, Kyle Fries, and Dakota Graham collected two hits each.

Game Two:

Dominican scored three runs without collecting a hit in the top of the first of the nightcap, but the Wildcats came back and scored four runs in the home half with only two hits.

Dakota Graham scored on a wild pitch and Frank Nigro hit a sacrifice fly for the first two runs. Max Carney tied the game by coming in on a wild pitch before Kendall Small snuck home on another wild pitch in the dirt as well.

Small doubled in the bottom of the third and was able to come home as Kyle Fries kept a ball inside the line in right, taking a 5-3 lead.

But the Chargers started their comeback effort with a two-out RBI double to left in the fifth before taking the lead for good with a three-run seventh inning. Dominican put the game away with four more runs in the top of the ninth, using two hits and two errors in their final at-bat.

Kendall Small went 2-for-3 with a double and two runs scored while Frank Nigro and Nick Macey each went 2-for-3 in the nightcap.

Up Next:

The 2018 regular season comes to a close on Tuesday afternoon, as the Wildcats head to Millersville for their final nonconference game of the season. Millersville was ranked third in the latest NCBWA Atlantic Region Poll. The first pitch is scheduled for 3:00 p.m.