Softball: Independence Cruises Past Gilmour, 11-1, in Sectional Final

By Catrina Olsen

With a crushing 11-1 score there is so much to say both defensively and offensively about the Independence Blue Devils. Between the catches, plays and at bats performed by this team, it is no surprise that they won today and will continue in the tournament.

Head coach Steve Ambose had nothing but positive feedback stating, “We have a couple things to clean up, but I think that with that we’re going to come out fighting on Thursday, I think the girls are ready to make a deep run.”

That was confirmed by senior captain, Sophie Piteo.

“First playoff gaming coming out winning 11-1 is really big for us. It sets a precedence for the rest of the play off, show everyone what we’re made of.” Piteo said.

The senior had many emotions due to her senior night.

“But we’re not done yet,” said Piteo. After four years of playing on the varsity team, this was her last home game.

The third inning is where Gilmour came to life with Mallory Piazza, who doubled and then was batted in by Emma Gurley, with a single and an error. That would be the only run the Independence Blue Devils would allow.

The ladies of Independence did not score again until the bottom on the fifth. Sophia Tombetta reached base with a single, followed by a single by Kim Rega. With both players in scoring position, Olivia Pallini hit a two-run single to extend the lead.

With a short top of the inning, Independence scored again at the bottom of the 6th, with Piteo getting a single, Jenna Suhy having a single, and a walk by Neenah Costanzo. Rega drove in both Piteo and Suhy Ending the game 11-1.

What a way to end a game and for Piteo, a career of varsity softball at Independence High School.

The Blue Devils advance to play Oberlin in a district semifinal at Avon Lake on Thursday, May 18 at 6 pm.