MELBOURNE, Fla. (March 8, 2024) - The St. Thomas University (STU) Softball team traveled back to the USSSA Space Coast Complex for their final day of play in the Space Coast Games. The Bobcats went 2-0, defeating both Concordia University (MI) and Lawrence Tech University. 

Game #1: Concordia
The game kicked off with Concordia setting the pace during the first inning, but St. Thomas gradually gained momentum. Natalie Kopicova's RBI single in the third inning marked the Bobcats' first breakthrough. The fourth inning saw Bianca Palacios grounding out to shortstop but bringing in a crucial run, narrowing the deficit. It was in the sixth inning that the Bobcats showcased their offensive firepower. Gabriella Gilbert's remarkable home run to center field ignited their surge, followed by Kaitlynn Martinez's triple to right field, which drove in another run. Mya Achenbach capitalized on a throwing error, extending St. Thomas' lead and securing a decisive advantage.

The final innings were a testament to St. Thomas' defensive skills, as they held off Concordia (MI)'s attempts to rally. Pitcher Anna Toon delivered another great performance, her twelve strikeouts and impeccable control were instrumental in securing the win for the Bobcats. Despite Concordia's valiant effort, St. Thomas sealed their victory. The Bobcats ultimately defeated the Cardinals 5-3.

Game #2: Lawrence Tech

From the outset, St. Thomas set the tone with a relentless display of offensive pressure. In the first inning, Toon's patient approach at the plate resulted in a crucial walk, driving in the opening run of the game. This early lead was further extended as Gilbert's sacrifice fly brought in another run, putting Lawrence Tech on the back foot from the onset. The Bobcats continued to assert their dominance in the subsequent innings, with Achenbach's sacrifice fly in the second inning and Martinez's opportunistic play in the third, capitalizing on an error to add to their lead. By the fourth inning, St. Thomas had firmly established control, with Isabella Fernandez's single driving in yet another run.

As the game progressed, The Bobcats continued to showcase their offensive depth and versatility, with Martinez's double in the fifth inning driving in two runs, followed by Jamillet Rodriguez's single, which extended the lead to a commanding 8-0 margin. On the defensive side, pitcher Melody Vizcaino stifled Lawrence Tech's offense. Vizcaino allowed only one hit while striking out one batter. At the end of five innings, the Bobcats had secured a resounding 8-0 victory.

Up next, the Bobcats will head to Lakeland, Fla. to face Southeastern University for a three game series starting on Friday March, 15th with a doubleheader on Saturday, March 16th.

-STU-