Patriots softball team posts 12-13 record

Whether it was a wild, high-scoring back-and-forth game or a low-scoring very close contest, the Lenape Valley Regional High School softball team proved that it could emerge victorious this spring.

The Patriots compiled a 12-13 and advanced to the post-season.

“The contests that were most impressive for the Lady Patriots this season were our 10-8 win against Hackettstown and our 1-0 win over Morristown,’’ head coach Julie Brennan said.

“The Lady Patriots were on the road at Hackettstown when they got off to a slow start of 7-0 after the second inning. After that, the Lady Patriots’ bats came alive, totaling 11 hits as they took the lead in the fifth inning. This was a huge comeback for these girls, and it truly speaks to their character and determination on the field.

“Against Morristown, we had a clean game in the field and one solo home run by Sarah O’Reilly to win the game. Pitcher Paige Henriksen had an incredible day on the mound, letting up only one hit. These two games were the highlight of the Lady Patriots’ season as they persevered and came out on top.’’

Seniors led the way for Lenape Valley.

“This year we had three seniors who lead the way for our young group,’’ Brennan said. “Laney Kenny, Alyssa Canfield and Erin Yanavok displayed true leadership for their team by working hard day in and day out, being the voice of reason in tough situations, and overall being positive role models on and off the field.

“From keeping practice exciting and fun to excitement on the bus rides to away games, these girls did an amazing job at putting the team first and building a culture that is unmatched.’’

Brennan pointed out players who improved on a regular basis during the season.

“Two athletes truly showed their continual improvement from pre-season practice to the last contest of the season,’’ she said. “Junior Lindsay Fehir had a great year at the plate as well as in the field. She made great plays at second base while being versatile at the plate either laying down a bunt or crushing a double to the outfield fence.

“Sophomore Sarah O’Reilly took a huge step this season while earning herself a starting position in right field as well as coming in clutch at the plate when the pressure was on and the team needed her most. These two athletes’ attitude and excitement towards this season are what players strive for, and it is enjoyable to watch these two girls improve their game.’’

The team won five of their 11 games in the Northwest Jersey Athletic Conference Freedom Division and advanced to the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) North 1 Group 2 Sectional Tournament, where they were defeated by Indian Hills.

“As a coach, I am optimistic about next season because we have a group of girls who simply love the game and they put the work in during the off-season,’’ Brennan said. “I feel that the Lady Patriots will thrive and continue to execute on the field in the upcoming years.

“These girls are like family on and off the field. It is such a fun experience to watch these girls. They always encourage one another and are able to joke around but still know when to be focused. I truly think that these athletes have so much potential and nothing is out of reach.’’