EAST COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS SOFTBALL — CIF 2015 Playoffs

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2015 ALL-CIF SOFTBALL TEAMS

FIRST TEAM
Name                   School                      Yr.
Pitchers
Kourtney Shaw          Poway                       Sr.
Makayla Martin         Scripps Ranch               Sr.
Megan Faraimo          Cathedral Catholic          Fr.
Kellie White           Mater Dei Catholic          Jr.
Shannon Hennessey      La Costa Canyon             Jr.
Infield
Sarai Niu              Cathedral Catholic          Sr.
Sierra Altmeyer        Patrick Henry               Sr.
Malia Martinez         Poway                       Jr.
Chloe Camarero         Grossmont                   So.
Xstaviana Auger        Torrey Pines                So.
Catcher
Shelby Evans           Torrey Pines                Sr.
Catherine Seitz        Poway                       Sr.
Outfield
Fale Aviu              Rancho Buena Vista          Sr.
Morgan Howe            Westview                    Sr.
Aaliyah Jordan         Bonita Vista                Jr.


SECOND TEAM
Name                   School                      Yr.
Pitchers
Madison James          Patrick Henry               So.
Lauren Dvorak          La Jolla Country Day        Fr.
Payton Tidd            San Marcos                  Fr.
Catchers
Cristiona Caccamise    Patrick Henry               So.
Infield
Tierra Falo            Cathedral Catholic          Sr.
Jessica Alexander      Vista                       Jr.
Justine Federe         Olympian                    Jr.
Hannah Bowen           Ramona                      So.
Skylee James           Rancho Bernardo             Sr.
Outfield
Maritza Rojas          Imperial                    Jr.
Gabrielle Calloway     Poway                       Jr.
Danielle Uy            Valhalla                    Sr.
Destiny Bacon          Grossmont                   So.
Amber Huffman          Clairemont                  Sr.
Designated Player
Colleen Sullivan       Poway                       Fr.

Player of the Year
Kourtney Shaw, Poway

Coach of the Year
Jim Bennet, Poway

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (6-11-15) — The competition in the East County was fast and furious with many players having outstanding seasons which made it all too close to call.

Many of the East County teams made the playoffs in pretty much every division with many making deep runs, highlighted by the Granite Hills Eagles, which went on to finish as runner-up in the San Diego Section Division II championship and finish with a 25-10 record.

Granite Hills’s ERIN COYNE was tabbed Coach of the Year as she guided the Eagles to the Championship game for the first time since 2008.

As for the other awards everything was pretty much for the taking. Patrick Henry second baseman SIERRA ALTMEYER and Valhalla outfielder DANIELLE UY were tabbed EastCountySports.com Co-Players of the Year.

When it came to the pitching this season, three pitchers stood out especially in crunch time and because of this they were tabbed Co-EastCountySports.com Pitchers of the Year.

MADISON “MJ” JAMES (Patrick Henry) who helped win the Eastern League crown and carry the Patriots deep into the Open Division of the playoffs, TESS EATON (West Hills) who had a big hand in the Wolf Pack winning the Grossmont Hills league crown and also was clutch in the Division One second round contest against Ramona, tossing all 12 innings in the victory especially when the Bulldogs had runners in scoring position with less than one down, and finally HALLE KYLER (Granite Hills) who pretty much dominated in the Division II playoffs especially in the Semi-Finals against Escondido, getting out of the bases loaded jam and in the final inning retiring the Cougars in order to propel the Eagles to the Division II Championship game.

There wasn’t a shortage of talented freshmen in the East County so it was hard to just pick one as these athletes all stood out. This is the reason why they were tabbed Co-EastCountySports.com Rookies of the Year. LILY METSCH (Valhalla) who was the workhorse in the circle for the Norsemen, whom – on her way to 15 victories – was able to show that she will be a force to reckon with the next three years. Also from Valhalla, KENNEDY LABSHERE who was able to wreak havoc against the opposition and strike fear into them from the two spot in the lineup, smashed 5 homers, registered 27 RBI, scored 24 runs and batted .432.

Another rookie from the Valley side of the Grossmont Conference, MCKENZIE FLORES (Helix) was one of the reasons the Highlanders improved their record by 12 games as she hit 2 home runs, drove in 30 runs and scored 30 runs – even stole a bag – and batted .586 on the season. Finally from Christian High, SILENT RAIN ESPINOZA was one of the main reasons with her offense to help the Patriots throughout the year and deep into the Division IV playoffs.

These two athletes were the main cogs to their respective teams’ lineups as they were able to get on base for the big boppers in the lineup. It is because of this that they are both named as the EastCountySports.com Unsung Hero award winners.

Leading off for the Granite Hills Eagles was KAREN CREECH who on the season batted .388, smashed 2 home runs – which were the first of her career – knocked in 12 runs, scored 47 runs of her own and even swiped 12 bases. It was her ability to get on base that helped propel the Eagles to the Grossmont Valley League Crown and also to the No. 2 seed in the San Diego Section Division II playoffs all the way to the finals. The other person who did the same for her team’s respective lineup was RACHEL SHELSTROM of Valhalla. Her ability, like Creech, to get on base created run scoring opportunities for her teammates. On the season she batted .452, hit 1 home run, knocked in 11 runs, scored 18 times, stole 5 bases and had 4 doubles.

2015 ALL-EAST COUNTY SOFTBALL TEAM
(As selected by EastCountySports.com staff)

FIRST TEAM
Name                    School                Yr.
Sydney Vates            Santana               Jr.
Kennedy Labshere        Valhalla              Fr.
Sierra Altmeyer         Patrick Henry         Sr.
Danielle Uy             Valhalla              Sr.
Madison James           Patrick Henry         Sr.
Kendall Marinesi        West Hills            Jr.
Chloe Camarero          Grossmont             So.
Halle Kyler             Granite Hills         So.
Cristiona Caccamise     Patrick Henry         So.
Ashley Blakely          Serra                 Sr.
Tess Eaton              West Hills            Sr.
Kaila DeWitt            Granite Hills         Sr.
Amber Wozniak           Serra                 Jr.
Mckenzie Flores         Helix                 Fr.
Hannah McEwen           Patrick Henry         So.
Destiny Bacon           Grossmont             So.
Abigail Metsch          Valhalla              Sr.
Ryleigh Dobyns          West Hills            So.
Destini Bullock         Helix                 Jr.
Mackenzie Bennett       Santana               Fr.

SECOND TEAM
Name                    School                Yr.
Alex Guay               West Hills            So.
Lily Metsch             Valhalla              Fr.
Anya Vandersip          Patrick Henry         Jr.
Cassidy Shew            Granite Hills         So.
Carly Pearson           Grossmont             Jr.
Cassie Van Til          Patrick Henry         So.
Kayla Kruel             El Capitan            Sr.
Karen Creech            Granite Hills         So.
Kendra Buckley          Steele Canyon         Sr.
Anna Sherburne          Christian             Jr.
Taylor Baez             Grossmont             So.
Victoria Hathaway       Granite Hills         Sr.
Victoria Villegas       Valhalla              Fr.
Brooke Roberts          West Hills            Jr.
Courtney Williams       El Capitan            Sr.
Brielle Tyseling        Granite Hills         So.
Alexis Collins          Grossmont             So.
Jessie LaPierre         Granite Hills         Jr.
Silent Rain Espinoza    Christian             Fr.
Katie Wall              Granite Hills         Jr.

Coach of the Year
Erin Coyne, Granite Hills

Players of the Year
Sierra Altmeyer, Patrick Henry
Danielle Uy, Valhalla

Rookies of the Year
Pitcher – Lily Metsch, Valhalla
Players – Kennedy Labshere, Valhalla; Mckenzie Flores, Helix; Silent Rain Espinoza, Christian.

Pitchers of the Year
Madison James, Patrick Henry; Tess Eaton, West Hills; Halle Kyler, Granite Hills.

Unsung Heroes
Rachel Shelstrom, Valhalla
Karen Creech, Granite Hills

2015 ALL-GROSSMONT HILLS LEAGUE SOFTBALL
Team Champion: West Hills
(Selected by League Coaches based on Conference Statistics only)
 
FIRST TEAM
Name                School                    Yr.
Tess Eaton          West Hills                Sr.
Danielle Uy         Valhalla                  Sr.
Kendra Buckley      Steele Canyon             Sr.
Kendall Marinesi    West Hills                Jr.
Sydney Vates        Santana                   Sr.
Kayla Kruel         El Capitan                Sr.
Makayla Stromenger  Steele Canyon             So.
Ryleigh Dobbins     West Hills                So.
Abigail Metsch      Valhalla                  Sr.
Kennedy Labshere    Valhalla                  Fr.
 
PLAYER OF THE YEAR:   DANIELLE UY, Valhalla
PITCHER OF THE YEAR:  TESS EATON, West Hills
 
SECOND TEAM
Name                School                    Yr.
Alex Guay           West Hills                So.
Mackenzie Bennett   Santana                   Fr.
Brooke Roberts      West Hills                Jr.
Mackenzie Reynolds  Santana                   Sr.
Kaci Hostetler      El Capitan                Sr.
Makayla McCarthy    Steele Canyon             So.
Lady Sara Federico  Valhalla                  Sr.
Anna Marie Iuliano  Valhalla                  Sr.
Nikki Leggate       West Hills                Jr.
Elizabeth Solis     Steele Canyon             Sr.
 
Honorable Mention
El Capitan: Kelsi Henzi (Sr.), Courtney Williams (Sr.), Jessica Bauer (Sr.), Grace Burkett (So.), Amanda Vasquez (So.).
Santana: Cassidy Matthie (So.), Jordan Teegardin (Jr.), Sophia Martorana (So.).
Steele Canyon: Gentry Hoffman (So.), Paige Barnes (Sr.), Ashley Tavizon (Jr.).
Valhalla: Lily Metsch (Sr.), Katie Schmidt (Sr.), Rachel Shelstrom (Fr.), Victoria Villegas (Fr.).
West Hills: Sierra Schlichting (So.), Meghan Fisher (Sr.), Moana Pisia (Fr.).

2015 ALL-GROSSMONT VALLEY LEAGUE SOFTBALL
Team Champion: Granite Hills
(Selected by League Coaches based on Conference Statistics only)
 
FIRST TEAM
Name                School                    Yr.
Halle Kyler         Granite Hills             So.
Mckenzie Flores     Helix                     Fr.
Chloe Camarero      Grossmont                 So.
Destiny Bacon       Grossmont                 So.
Karen Creech        Granite Hills             So.
Destini Bullock     Helix                     Jr.
Kaila DeWitt        Granite Hills             Sr.
Taylor Baez         Grossmont                 So.
Brielle Tyseling    Granite Hills             So.
Clarissa Smith      Helix                     Sr.
 
PLAYER OF THE YEAR:  CHLOE CAMARERO, Grossmont
PITCHER OF THE YEAR: KAILA DeWITT, Granite Hills
 
SECOND TEAM
Name                  School                  Yr.
Carly Pearson         Grossmont               Jr.
Sierra Goldhagen      Monte Vista             Sr.
Savannah Sobotka      El Cajon Valley         Fr.
Jessie LaPierre       Granite Hills           Jr.
Geena Henderson       Monte Vista             So.
Alexis Collins        Grossmont               So.
Cassidy Davila        Grossmont               So.
Briana Reed           Helix                   Fr.
Cynthia Valencia      Monte Vista             Fr.
Katie Wall            Granite Hills           Jr.
 
Honorable Mention
El Cajon Valley: Vanessa Meija (So.).
Granite Hills: Cassidy Shew (So.), Victoria Hathaway (Sr.).
Grossmont: Kailey Daniels (Jr.), Kira Elliott (Sr.), Katie Appenzeller (Fr.).
Helix: Victoria Cyman (Jr.), Shareena LaChance (Fr.),Jasmine Veliz (Jr.).
Monte Vista: Jayde Goldhagen (So.).
Mount Miguel: None.

2015 ALL-EASTERN LEAGUE SOFTBALL
Team Champion: Patrick Henry
(Selected by League Coaches based on Conference Statistics only)
 
FIRST TEAM
Name                 School                   Yr.
Makayla Martin       Scripps Ranch            Sr.
Madison James        Patrick Henry            So.
Sierra Altmeyer      Patrick Henry            So.
Hannah McEwen        Patrick Henry            So.
Cassie Van Til       Patrick Henry            So.
Hannah Matteson      Scripps Ranch            Fr.
Ashley Kopp          Mira Mesa                Fr.
Ashley Blakeley      Serra                    Sr.
Amber Wozniak        Serra                    Jr.
Anna Sherburne       Christian                Jr.
 
PLAYER OF THE YEAR:   MAKAYLE MARTIN, Scripps Ranch
PITCHER OF THE YEAR:  MADISON JAMES, Patrick Henry
 
SECOND TEAM
Name                 School                   Yr.
Cristiona Caccamise  Patrick Henry            So.
Maddie Barraza       Patrick Henry            Sr.
Sydney James         Patrick Henry            Sr.
Alison Petty         Scripps Ranch            Jr.
Lexi Osowski         Scripps Ranch            Fr.
Jordyn Nowakowski    Mira Mesa                Jr.
Darby Tibbetts       Serra                    Jr.
Silent Rain Espinoza Christian                Fr.
CJ Gonzalez          Morse                    Sr.
 
Honorable Mention
Patrick Henry: Danielle Romero (Jr.), Anya Vandersip (Jr.).
Scripps Ranch: Lauren Lipe (Jr.), Maddy Kalchik (Jr.), Delaney Kelly (Fr.).
Mira Mesa: Kristen Parker (Jr.).
Serra: Taylor Curley (Jr.), Valarie Valadez (Jr.), Vivian Tomovich (Fr.), Taryn Jellison (Sr.).
Morse: Veronica Quirino (So.).

La Costa Canyon takes Division II Title

By Adam Paul
© East COunty Sports.com
SAN DIEGO (5-31-15) — In front of a packed house at the UCSD softball complex it was a winner take all clash between the No. 1 La Costa Canyon Mavericks and the No. 2 Granite Hills Eagles in the CIF San Diego Section Division II Finals Saturday (May 30). The Eagles who last won a CIF Division I crown back in 2008 looked to bring another one home. Unfortunately the offense couldn’t get the timely hit in the 2-0 loss.

The Eagles looked to get things going early as the lead-off hitter KAREN CREECH (2-3) reached on a throwing error by Maverick third baseman Samantha Smith. The Eagles couldn’t do anything more as the Mavericks would get out of the inning.

Now it was the Mavericks turn in the bottom of the first but they, as well, couldn’t do anything as they were retired in order 1-2-3.

So both teams having matched each other in the first inning and it looking as though runs would be a scarcity, things looked very promising for the Eagles in the top of the second inning as it appeared they would break through for the first score.

Leadoff batter JESSIE LAPIERRE (1-2) singled, the next batter HALLE KYLER hit a ball to the third baseman who threw to second to get the force out.. So with one down and Kyler at first base, CASSIDY SHEW (1-3) on an 0-2 pitch ripped a single that would advance Kyler all the way to third base, still with only one down and runners now at the corners it was up to KATIE WALL to do something and that she did as she was plunked by the pitch, which loaded the bases.

The Granite Hills faithful roared for their team as it looked like the Eagles were going to break through on the scoreboard. The next batter KAYLA MACK stepped to the plate with only one down and the bases packed and unfortunately on a 1-2 pitch swung and missed for the second out. This brought the La Costa Canyon fans alive as they were one out away from ending the threat.

So with two outs now, BRIELLE TYSELING (1-3) came to the plate and on the first pitch hit the ball to Samantha Smith at third who stepped on the bag for the final out of the inning thus ending the Eagle threat. The whole side of La Costa Canyon erupted as they knew they had dodged a major bullet.

Having dodged a huge threat, the Mavericks knew they had to get something going in the bottom of the third inning. However Halle Kyler, who was also in the circle for the Eagles, had other ideas and it looked like things would stay even.

The first two batters for the Mavericks, Megan Wachholtz and Lindsay Maryon both struck out. It was looking good for the Eagles but the third out is always the hardest to get. The next batter Riley Casper (0-2, R) hit the ball to short but the throw was a bad one and Casper was safe on the error. Up stepped Megan Ruiz (1-2, R) who flied out in her first at bat, this time though she put down a bunt and would be safe. So now with runners on first and second and two outs Bailey Romano looked to keep things going as she drew a four pitch walk.

The Maverick fans cheered as Samantha Smith (1-2, 2 RBI) came to bat and on the 1-0 count laced a hard hit single that scored both Casper and Ruiz to give the Mavericks the 2-0 advantage. The very next batter, Shannon Hennessy, would hit a little dinker back to Kyler who would throw to first for the final out of the inning.

The next couple of innings saw the Eagles only get a baserunner on in both innings as Shannon Hennessy was able to retire Eagle batters left and right on fly balls. The bottom of the fifth inning saw the Mavericks threaten again but the Eagles were able to quash it without any damage done.

In the top of the sixth inning with one down, Jessie LaPierre hit a routine fly ball to right field but the fielder dropped the ball and LaPierre was safe at first on the error. The next two batters would be retired on a ground out and a fly ball to end the inning. The Mavericks would only garner a hit in their half of the sixth.

Heading into the seventh and final frame and trailing, the Eagles were pressed to mount some sort of offense. However Hennessy was able to retire Katie Wall on a fly ball for the first out. The next batter MEGAN ERICKSON who had come in a couple of innings prior for Kayla Mack would ground back to Hennessy who tossed over to first for the second out of the inning. This brought the Maverick fans to their feet and again cheering as they knew it was close.

With two outs Brielle Tyseling kept the Eagles alive as she poked a single but the Eagles couldn’t do anything else as Karen Creech popped to second where Riley Casper would squeeze it for the final out of the game, sending the Mavericks into a frenzy as they rushed the circle tossing their gloves into the air as they celebrated their championship.

On the day both teams would only manage five hits apiece. Another key to the game was that La Costa Canyon only left 5 base runners on compared to the 7 that the Eagles left on.

For the Mavericks pitching wise Shannon Hennessy tossed 7 innings, 0 runs on 5 hits, walked 1 while striking out 1 and also 1 hit batsman on the day in the victory.

Taking the loss for the Eagles was Halle Kyler who tossed 6 innings, 2 runs of which none were earned on 5 hits, walked 3 while fanning 7 on the day.

Besides the trophies and patches given out after the game to both teams, the San Diego CIF also acknowledged a sportsmanship award given to a player on both teams. For the Mavericks, garnering the sportsmanship award was Samantha Smith while on the Eagles side receiving the sportsmanship award was Megan Erickson.

Despite the loss the Eagles finished the amazing season with a 24-10 record and look to do more damage next year as they only graduate four players.

Granite Hills will Take It To The Limit

DeWitt was living Life In The Fast Lane

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (5-29-15) — In the semifinals of the Division II San Diego CIF Section playoffs at the Santee Sportsplex Thursday (May 30) the No. 2 Granite Hills Eagles behind three homeruns were able to defeat the No. 4 Brawley Wildcats in the elimination game 3-1.

The Eagles struck first in the bottom half as leadoff hitter KAREN CREECH bombed the first pitch over the fence for her second career homer to give the Eagles the 1-0 lead. It was déjà vu for the Eagles in the bottom of the third as they were able to push across two more runs thanks to the long ball.

With one out up stepped JESSIE LAPIERRE who on the third pitch blasted the solo shot and VICTORIA HATHAWAY matched with her own long jack to round out the scoring.

It would be all the Eagles would need as Eagle pitcher HALLE KYLER mowed down the Wildcats one by one, only giving up the one run in the top of the sixth inning. Kyler went the full distance for the win, giving up the 1 run on 4 hits while striking out 4.

The win propelled the Eagles into the nightcap to face the No. 3 Escondido Cougars in a rematch of their playoff game played a few days prior in which Escondido won 2-1.

GRANITE HILLS 6, ESCONDIDO 5 — In front of a near capacity crowd the No. 2 Granite Hills Eagles took on the No. 3 Escondido Cougars and were able to hold off a fast and furious rally to win 6-5 at the Santee Sportsplex in the San Diego CIF Section Division II playoffs, Thursday evening (May 30).

It was winner stays alive time for both teams and neither wanted to budge but the Eagles looking for revenge against the Cougars were able to strike first in the bottom of the first inning. Leadoff batter KAREN CREECH (R) was able to reach on an error, she moved to third on a single by KAILA DEWITT 3-4, the next batter VICTORIA HATHAWAY 2-4 (R, 2B) was called out on an infield fly rule, and JESSIE LAPIERRE would knock in Creech on a sacrifice fly to left field to make the score 1-0.

The Cougars got on the board in the top of the third inning thanks to Alexza Sanchez leading off getting hit by a pitch, she would later come around to score when Xzarria Simmons reached on a throwing error to tie the score 1-1. With the score knotted at 1-1 the Eagles in the bottom of the fourth inning were able to break the tie as they pushed across a run.

Leading off for the Eagles, CASSIDY SHEW was able to lace a single. She would be moved up on a bunt by KATIE WALL, KAYLA MACK scorched a double that scored Shew to give the Eagles a 2-1 lead. With the slim lead, the Eagles were able to break things open in the bottom of the fifth inning as they pushed across four runs to lead 6-1.

Leadoff hitter Kaila DeWitt singled, Victoria Hathaway laced a single, Jessie LaPierre singled and Halle Kyler reached on a fielder’s choice as DeWitt was thrown out at home. So with the bases loaded and one out CASSIDY SHEW took one for the team as she was hit by a pitch giving her an RBI as Hathaway scored, KATIE WALL came up and ripped a single that scored both LaPierre and Kyler and moved Shew up, Kayla Mack grounded out but a run scored to round out the scoring.

Unfortunately for the Eagles their cushy five run lead almost didn’t last as the Cougars did their best to fast and furiously rally in the top of the sixth inning as they were able to score four runs to bring the score to 6-5.

As the Cougars were trying to make their comeback, Eagles coach ERIN COYNE decided to make a pitching change by bringing in Halle Kyler to pitch and moved Kaila DeWitt to shortstop. Facing a tough jam with runners still on base and threatening, Kyler faced Escondido batter Alexza Sanchez who was looking to add to the damage. Sanchez just kept fouling pitch after pitch off, and facing a full count, Kyler was finally able to retire Sanchez on a strikeout in an amazing 15 pitch at-bat that was probably the turning point in the game.

Kyler was able to retire the next batter via groundout to end the inning and threat. The ending of the inning brought the Eagles faithful to their feet as they just saw an amazing feat with the ending of the jam.

Breathing a sigh of relief, the Eagles only needed three more outs to complete the evening and advance. In the top of the seventh inning and still leading by one run, the Eagles looked to put things away. The leadoff batter grounded out for the first out, the next batter grounded out for the second out of the inning. Everyone in the stands on the Granite Hills side was cheering loudly as they rose to their feet. The next batter Brynn Miller looked to keep things alive but Kyler would have nothing of it as she reached back on the fourth pitch and Miller swung and missed for the third strike and the third out, thus ending the ballgame.

This sent the entire Granite Hills team into a frenzy as they celebrated because they were going to the finals.

For the Eagles in the victory, Kaila DeWitt went 5 1/3 innings for the win, giving up 5 runs of which 4 were earned on 3 hits while walking 4 and striking out 3. Halle Kyler came in relief and got the save as she tossed 1 2/3 innings, giving up 1 hit while walking 1 and striking out 2.

So with the victory the Eagles now will advance to the San Diego Section Division II Championships where they will take on the No. 1 seed La Costa Canyon Mavericks for all the marbles on Saturday (May 30) at UCSD at 2 p.m.

GROSSMONT 9, HILLTOP 3 — In San Diego CIF Division III semifinal action at the Poway Sportsplex Thursday (May 28) the No. 6 Grossmont Foothillers were able to down No. 7 Hilltop 9-3 to advance to the second game of the evening.

In the bottom of the first inning despite trailing 1-0 the game was pretty much settled as Grossmont was able to push across six runs thanks to multiple base hits. As usual leadoff batter CHLOE CAMARERO singled, KIRA ELLIOTT singled and DESTINY BACON laced a single down the third base line. CARLY PEARSON ripped the game winning RBI single to centerfield that scored Camarero and KATIE APPENZELLER singled scoring Elliott. MEGAN MALWITZ walked scoring Bacon, AMBER ALLMAN lined a single off the pitcher to score Pearson. Chloe Camarero came to bat again and drew a walk that scored Appenzeller, Kira Elliott laced a single that scored KAILEY DANIELS who had come in as a courtesy runner for Malwitz.

So after that burst of offense the score was now 6-1 in favor of the Foothillers. They would add more in the second inning. Carly Pearson would blast a solo homerun, ALEXIS COLLINS would single to left field, Malwitz singled moving Collins to second base, Amber Allman would single to left field which brought in LILI FLORES who had come in as a courtesy runner for Collins.

Hilltop would answer with a couple of their own runs in the fifth but in the bottom of the sixth inning, the Foothillers would answer back. Carly Pearson singled, Katie Appenzeller would lay down a sacrifice bunt that moved Pearson over to second base, Alexis Collins laced a single bringing in Pearson from second into score to finalize the scoring.

That would be all that CASSIDY DAVILA would need as she got out of the final inning to end the game and help the Foothillers advance to the evening game. On the day Davila went the full distance for the victory, gave up 3 runs of which 2 were earned on 7 hits while walking 4 and fanning 1.

OLYMPIAN 7, GROSSMONT 3 — In the second semifinal game of the evening the No. 6 Grossmont Foothillers took on No. 1 Olympian and couldn’t get the offense going as they dropped the decision by a score of 7-3 at the Poway Sportsplex on Thursday (May 28) in the CIF San Diego Section Division III playoffs.

The scrappy Foothillers looked to crash the party by upsetting the top seed but unfortunately the offense didn’t come alive until the bottom of the fifth inning to score a run.

In the bottom of the fifth inning, CARLY PEARSON doubled, KATIE APPENZELLER singled which moved Pearson to third base, so with runners at the corners, ALEXIS COLLINS reached on an infield single which loaded the bases. MEGAN MALWITZ singled to left which scored Pearson for the lone run.

In the bottom of the sixth inning the Foothillers would score two more to round out their scoring. KIRA ELLIOTT singled, TAYLOR BAEZ roped a double down the line scoring Elliott, DESTINY BACON singled which moved Baez to third base, Carly Pearson would single bringing in Baez for the second run of the inning for the Foothillers.

Grossmont wouldn’t put up anymore offense and in the seventh inning would be held scoreless, thus ending the game and also their amazing season. In the end the Foothillers will use this experience to give them motivation for next year as they return everyone except a couple of players.

Another key to the game for the Foothillers was the fact that they were able to keep Olympian scoreless after the fourth inning.

CHRISTIAN 5, ESCONDIDO CHARTER 2 — In CIF SAN DIEGO SECTION Division IV the No. 2 Christian Patriots took on No. 6 Escondido Charter in the semifinals at the Santee Sportsplex Thursday (May 28) and came away with the 5-2 victory to move onto the afternoon game.

HIGH TECH-SAN DIEGO 3, CHRISTIAN 1 — At the Santee Sportsplex Thursday (May 28) the No. 2 Christian Patriots took on No. 3 High Tech San Diego and unfortunately dropped the contest by a score of 3-1 in the second semifinal of the day, thus ending the Patriots season.

Dons punch their ticket to the Semi's behind Faraimo

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
SAN CARLOS (5-27-15) — In San Diego CIF Open Division third round action at Patrick Henry High in front of a big crowd, the No. 6 Cathedral Catholic Dons took on the host No. 4 Patrick Henry Patriots and were able to come away with the 3-1 victory, Tuesday (May 26).

The first few innings both teams matched each other inning for inning as the pitching and defense dominated the contest. However the Dons were the first to strike as they were able to finally breakthrough in the top of the top of the fourth inning with a run to lead 1-0.

The leadoff batter for the Dons, TIERRA FALO managed to work the count and finally was able to get hold of a pitch and smash it for a double. She would be lifted for a courtesy runner. The courtesy runner moved to third on a wild pitch and came in to score on the fly ball out to left by JACEY BOURGEOIS. The Patriots were able to get out of the inning without any further damage done.

Unfortunately the Patriots ran into the buzz saw in Don’s pitcher MEGAN FARAIMO who was just bringing it by limiting the high powered offense of the Patriots to mainly groundball outs and strikeouts through the first four innings. In the top of the fifth, Cathedral Catholic was able to push across a couple more runs to stretch their lead to 3-0.

Leadoff hitter for the Dons RAVEN LECLAIR was able to notch a single, the next batter struck out, so with one out and a runner on base, up stepped SARAI NAI to the plate. On the very first offering she absolutely crushed the ball over the fence for the two run homer which brought the Dons faithful to their feet.

Now trailing by three runs heading into the bottom of the seventh inning the Patriots finally broke through and got on the board with a run to cut the lead to 3-1. Leadoff hitter for Patrick Henry, senior SIERRA ALTMEYER 1-3 (HR, R) facing an 0-2 count took the next pitch and clubbed a towering shot over the left field fence for the only run of the game for the Patriots and also one for the movies, a homerun in her final at-bat as a Patriot. Unfortunately that was all the Patriots would garner as Faraimo retired the next three Patriot batters to end the game and thus eliminating the Patriots from the playoffs.

Taking the loss for the Patriots was MADISON “MJ” JAMES going the full distance, giving up 3 runs of which all were earned on 9 hits, walked 2 while striking out 4. Despite the loss the Patriots will definitely be a contender next year as they only graduate four seniors so they will be hungry and have another year under their belts.

GRANITE HILLS 1, OLP 0 (8 inn.) — Third round action of the San Diego CIF Division II playoffs saw the No. 2 Granite Hills Eagles play host to the No. 9 Our Lady of Peace Pilots, Tuesday (May 26). In a gut wrenching performance by the Eagles, they were able to come out on top in super dramatic fashion 1-0 in the bottom of the eighth inning.

Both teams played like it was the seventh game of the World Series as neither team could muster any type of offense in which pitching and defense just dominated. The Pilots could only manage 4 hits on the day while on the other side the Eagles were able to punch out 6 hits.

In the top of the seventh the Pilots went down 1-2-3 as well as the Eagles in the bottom of the inning to send the game into extra innings. The Eagles would get out of the top of the eighth after they were able to quash the little threat by the Pilots.

All in all the fans of both teams were treated to a classic game by both teams but it wasn’t over yet as the Eagles had a move up their sleeves. The move would be one for the ages. Leadoff hitter MEGAN ERICKSON managed to get on via a single, the next batter BRIELLE TYSELING would pop up for the first out, unfortunately the second out of the inning would occur when Erickson would be picked off of first base.

So now with two outs and the game looking to go into the ninth, KAREN KREECH 2-4 (R, 2B) who had singled earlier, with the count 1-0 she saw the next pitch and ripped it for a double which brought loud cheers from the Granite fans.

Still with two outs and the game winning run at second, one couldn’t imagine the scenario occurring where the last home game of career and getting the game winning hit could possibly happen. Well guess what, up stepped to the plate the dangerous KAILA DeWITT 1-4 (RBI, 2B) who was due, after taking the first pitch to have the count 1-0. On the very next pitch in Hollywood dramatic fashion with one swing of the bat she absolutely drilled a double, scoring Creech for the game winning RBI and ending the game and bringing about the very loud cheers of the Granite Hills faithful.

In the circle for the Eagles and doing her best NOLAN RYAN impression with her performance was HALLE KYLER as she was firing on all cylinders – on the day she went 8 innings, with 0 runs on 4 hits, 1 walk and fanned an impressive 14 Pilots.

With the victory, the Eagles will now move onto the Semi Finals at the Santee Sportsplex where they will face Brawley at 3pm on Thursday (May 28).

GROSSMONT 2, SERRA 1 — The No. 6 Grossmont Foothillers traveled to Serra high to take on the No.4 Conquistadors in San Diego CIF Division III third round action and were able to come out on top in the exciting 2-1 in 8 innings contest.

Neither team could break through offensively until the Foothillers were able to in the top of the third inning. Guess who was the spark for the Foothillers? Leading off was CHLOE CAMARERO 2-3 (2 R, 2B, SB) who drew the walk, she stole second base, so with Camarero at second and no outs, KIRA ELLIOT (RBI) came to bat, on the 2-1 count she laced a single into centerfield that scored Camarero to give the Foothillers the 1-0 lead.

The one run lead was looking really good for Grossmont as they were moving along retiring the Conquistadors pretty much at will. It was all good until the bottom of the sixth inning when Serra finally was able to push across the tying run. Leadoff hitter ASHLEY BLAKELY (R) would single, move over on the sacrifice bunt by TAYLOR CURLEY, move over on the groundball out by TARYN JELLISON and finally score to make it 1-1.

In the top of the seventh inning, Grossmont would threaten with two outs as MEGAN MALWITZ and AMBER ALLMAN would accrue back to back singles but unfortunately that was all as KAILEY DANIELS was retired for the final out. The bottom half saw the Conquistadors gain nothing as they went down pretty easily. So with the score still knotted at 1-1 the game went into extra innings.

Grossmont who had won their last game by a run late in the game looked to repeat the result. If they were to accomplish this they had the right batters to do so as leading off was Chloe Camarero who was able to club a double to left center, the next batter Kira Elliot was retired on a fly ball for the first out, TAYLOR BAEZ laced a single to right that moved Camarero to third, Baez promptly stole second base, so with one down and runners at second and third up stepped DESTINY BACON who roped a single to left that scored Camarero and put the Foothillers on top 2-1, Baez moved to third base, Bacon stole second base, unfortunately the next two Grossmont batters would be retired but not before they were able to take the lead.

Leading by a run, CASSIDY DAVILA looked to put things away and end the game. She was able to get two quick outs before issuing a walk, however the very next batter would strikeout thus ending the contest.

The Foothillers will now move onto the Semi Finals, Thursday (May 26) at the Poway Sports Plex where they will take on Hilltop at 3pm.

CHRISTIAN 6, ORANGE GLEN 2 — In San Diego CIF Division IV action the No. 2 Christian Patriots played host to the No. 8 Orange Glen Patriots and were able to come away with the 6-2 victory.

The first team to strike in the contest was the Christian Patriots as they were able to push across two runs in the bottom of the first to lead 2-0 early. They would extend their lead to 4-0 with a couple more runs in the bottom of the third inning. Leading by a semi-nice lead, the Patriots were not done as they rounded out their scoring with two more in the bottom of the fifth inning to lead 6-0.

It wouldn’t be until the top of the sixth inning that the Orange Glen Patriots would finally break the shutout with a pair of runs to make the score 6-2. The Orange Glen Patriots would put on a couple of baserunners in the top of the seventh but would be marked out as ASHLEY CARTER was able to retire Orange Glen to end the game.

Christian on the day offensively had many contributors including SILENT RAIN ESPINOZA who had a single, 3 BB, 3 R and an RBI, ANNA SHERBURNE 2-3 (RBI, 2 R, BB), SHANNON McMAHON 1-3 (2 RBI), GABBY GRABOWSKI 1-3 (RBI) and TAYLOR MILLER (RBI).

Besides contributing offensively, Gabby Grabowski also took the circle and went 6 innings, gave up 2 R of which both were earned on 8 hits, 0 walks and struck out 5 in the victory. Entering in relief was Ashley Carter who tossed an inning, giving up 2 hits and walking none.

The victory by Christian now propels them into the Semi Finals at the Santee Sports Plex, Thursday (May 28) where they will face Escondido Charter at 1pm.

CARLSBAD 11, WEST HILLS 0 —The No. 6 West Hills Wolf Pack had the tough task of traveling to the North County to take on the No. 1 Carlsbad Lancers and unfortunately the Wolf Pack were soundly defeated 11-0, Tuesday (May 26) in San Diego CIF Division I action.

The Lancers were able to keep the bats of the Wolf Pack at bay all game long as they limited West Hills to only 2 hits on the day. The other difference was that Carlsbad excelled in two innings. They scored 6 runs in the bottom of the second and finished that off by scoring 5 runs in the bottom of the sixth inning to round out the scoring.

Offensively, SIERRA SCHLICHTING had the only hits on the day as she went 2-3 for West Hills.

The loss ends the season for the Wolf Pack but they will definitely be one of the top teams in the county next year as they only graduate two. The experiences of the Wolf Pack will make them a dangerous team next year and one to must see in person because if it’s like anything this year, the contests will always be exciting.

Lucky Wolf Pack shows how good they are

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (5-24-15) — In sports, no matter what sport it is, many people say it’s better to be lucky than good. But in the case of the West Hills Wolf Pack it’s great to be both.

That was the case today in Santee, Saturday (May 23) in front of a packed house as the No. 6 West Hills Wolf Pack again made one of their patented comebacks in the late innings to tie, and eventually down the No.10 Ramona Bulldogs 4-3 in 12 innings in the San Diego CIF Division I second round playoffs.

The top of the first saw the visiting team from the North County Bulldogs score a run to take the early 1-0 lead on an error and also a base hit. The Wolf Pack threatened in the bottom half as leadoff hitter BROOKE ROBERTS singled and stole second base. Unfortunately the Wolf Pack couldn’t convert as the next three batters were retired in order.

Like the bottom of the first inning, West Hills again threatened in the second as NIKKI LEGGATTE doubled with one out and was replaced by MOANA PISIA as a courtesy runner. Pisia moved to third base on a wild pitch, unfortunately again no conversion for West Hills.

For the third inning in a row the Wolf Pack would get a runner into scoring position with less than one out and couldn’t get the timely hit to score. On the other side, Ramona wasn’t doing anything either as West Hills was shutting them down. That would change in top of the fifth inning as Ramona finally broke through to extend their lead as they took advantage of a couple of walks and a single and a double to score a couple of runs to lead 3-0. Despite the runs scored, West Hills was able to get out of the inning without any further damage done.

Now trailing by three, heading into the bottom of the fifth and running out of opportunities, things looked grim for the Wolf Pack. However just like in games past when trailing late in the game, they took advantage of what was given to them. The leadoff hitter Nikki Leggatte drew the walk and was replaced by SYDNEY CRAVEN as a courtesy runner. RYLEIGH DOBYNS stepped up with no outs and on the 2-0 count took the offering and just absolutely clubbed it over the fence for the two run homer to cut the lead to 3-2. This brought the West Hills faithful to their feet cheering and back into the game.

The next batter SIERRA SCHLICTING on a full count would channel her inner CARLTON FISK 1975 World Series Boston Red Sox impression as she took the full count offering and crushed it to left field high and deep – the only matter was would it stay fair and it did – as it went over the fence fair by a few feet. The crowd went bonkers as now the game was tied 3-3 after it was looking bleak for the Wolf Pack. The Ramona crowd was just stunned as they saw their team blow a three-run lead disappear in a matter of minutes after cruising along.

The bottom of the sixth inning saw the Wolf Pack threaten as Ryleigh Dobyns doubled with two outs and stole third base, Sierra Schlicting drew a walk and she too stole second base but unfortunately the next batter ALEXIS HERRERA struck out to end the inning. Both teams wouldn’t do anything in the seventh inning so as a reward the game went into extra innings.

The Bulldogs threatened in the top of the eighth inning as the leadoff batter walked, she would be sacrificed to second, would move to third on the fly ball but would be stranded as the next batter grounded to short.

The Wolf Pack would go down in order in their half of the eighth.

So now heading into the ninth and still tied, Ramona again threatened as the leadoff batter singled, the next batter singled moving the leadoff runner to third and the next batter sacrificed the runner at first to second. So with one out and runners at second and third, Wolf Pack pitcher TESS EATON showed why she is one of the best pitchers in the county as she was able to retire the next two batters with the last out being a strikeout to end the inning and get out of the jam.

In the bottom of the ninth, West Hills unfortunately went down in order again.

So now heading to the tenth inning, the Bulldogs went down in order in the top half of the inning as did the Wolf Pack in the bottom half.

In the top of the eleventh inning the Bulldogs threatened again and again it was quashed by Eaton. In the bottom of the inning, West Hills went down quietly 1-2-3.

West Hills again trotted out to take the field for the top of the twelfth inning and Tess Eaton again went to business as she was able to retire the Bulldogs despite hitting the leadoff hitter. So now going into the bottom of the inning still tied, the Wolf Pack looked to finally end things as Ryleigh Dobyns led off but grounded to short, so with one out Sierra Schlicting stepped to the plate and ripped the 1-0 count for a single bringing loud cheers from the crowd. She then stole second base for the second time of the day, and the next batter KELCI ELLIS-ALVAREZ grounded to the second basemen for the second out of the inning. Looking like it was going to go to the thirteenth inning as there was now two outs, Brooke Roberts calmly stepped to the plate and smashed the pitch up the middle in the air, Schlicting would come around to score the game winning run and thus ending the wild game in the bottom of the twelfth inning.

Gaining the pitching victory for the Wolf Pack was Tess Eaton who went all 12 innings, giving up 3 runs on 7 hits of which 2 runs were earned, walked 6 and fanned 5 on the day. With the one run victory, the Wolf Pack have now five on the season and will continue their magic ride in the playoffs on Tuesday (May 26) when they travel to the North County to take on the No. 1 Carlsbad Lancers.

OLP 5, VALHALLA 3 — The No. 5 Valhalla Norsemen hosted the No. 9 Pilots of Our Lady of Peace, Saturday (May 23) in the San Diego CIF Division II second round of the playoffs and unfortunately came up on the short end of the scoreboard 5-3.

The Pilots in the top of the first got things going early as they were able to push a run across thanks to a leadoff double and a single to lead 1-0 early on. It wouldn’t be until the fourth inning when the Pilots were able to extend their lead to 3-0 thanks to a single and a two run homer.

Looking to do more damage the Pilots were able to extend their lead to 5-0 on a base hit and also an error by the first baseman that allowed OLP to score two runs.

Valhalla who had been stifled all day long finally looked to get it going as they threatened in the bottom of the fifth thanks to back to back base hits by KENNEDY LABSHERE 2-4 (3 RBI, HR) and DANIELLE UY 1-4 as well as ANNAMARIE IULIANO 1-3 (R) reaching. However this was all done with two outs and unfortunately the Norsemen couldn’t convert.

So now down to their final at bat and trailing 5-0, the Norsemen had to get something going. RACHEL SHELSTROM singled with one out, the next batter Annamarie Iuliano was able to draw the walk, so now with two runners on Kennedy Labshere stepped up with one down and two on, and took the 2-2 offering and just absolutely drilled it over the fence for the three run bomb, bringing the packed Valhalla stands to their feet and giving the Norsemen some hope as it was now 5-3. Unfortunately that would be all she wrote as the next two batters were quietly retired ending the game and also the season for Valhalla as with the loss they were officially eliminated from the playoffs.

ESCONDIDO 2, GRANITE HILLS 1 — In San Diego CIF Division II round two playoff action, Saturday (May 23) the No. 2 Granite Hills Eagles hosted the No. 3 Escondido Cougars and dropped the 2-1 decision.

The Cougars in the first inning were able to score all the runs they needed as they took advantage of a leadoff walk, a single and a double that scored the two runs to lead 2-0.

Granite Hills in the bottom of the second threatened as KAREN CREECH and KATIE WALL 3-3 (R, 2B) hit back-to-back singles with two outs but the threat was stopped as KAYLA MACK grounded out.

In the bottom of the fifth the Eagles finally got on the board as Katie Wall banged a leadoff double, she would score thanks to BRIELLE TYSELING reaching on an error to cut the lead at 2-1 Cougars. Unfortunately that would be all the runs Granite Hills would muster as they were limited to only four hits on the day.

Taking the hard luck loss for the Eagles was HALLE KYLER who tossed all 7 innings, giving up 2 runs of which both were earned on 2 hits while walking 5 and striking out 4.

The Eagles will now take on the Pilots of OLP on Tuesday (May 26) in a home game.

PATRICK HENRY 2, BONITA VISTA 0 — In a surprising twist the No. 4 Patrick Henry Patriots traveled to the South Bay to take on the No. 1 Bonita Vista Barons in the bottom bracket of the San Diego CIF Open Division second round playoffs, Saturday (May 23) and came away with the 2-0 victory.

It was a surprising twist because many people didn’t expect this matchup to be an elimination game until maybe further into the playoffs but here they were meeting for the second time this season with the Patriots claiming the 9-6 victory in the first game.

This was a game that people knew runs would be at a premium as you had two of the best teams in the county. The Patriots in the second inning got on the board first on a leadoff double by CRISTIONA “CC” CACCAMISE who promptly stole third base and would score on the RBI grounder by CASSIE VAN TIL to give the Patriots the 1-0 lead.

In the top of the fourth inning the Patriots struck again as DANIELLE ROMERO jacked a solo homer to give the Patriots the 2-0 lead of which they would not relinquish thanks to outstanding defense and also pitching by their ace MADISON “MJ” JAMES.

On the day Madison James would toss the complete 7 inning shutout, only giving up 4 hits, walking 2 and fanning 2 on day.

The Patriots avoided elimination and will now take on the Dons of Cathedral Catholic in a home game at Patrick Henry on Tuesday (May 26).

GROSSMONT 8, BISHOP’S 6 — The No. 6 Grossmont Foothillers traveled to take on the host No. 2 Bishop’s Knights in San Diego CIF Division III second round playoffs and were able to come away with wild 8-6 victory in 10 innings.

The Foothillers did their best to take charge early as they put the pedal to the metal by pushing across four runs in the top of the first inning. CHLOE CAMARERO singled, DESTINY BACON smashed a double that scored Camarero, TAYLOR BAEZ singled scoring Bacon, MEGAN MALWITZ singled and she would score on the single to left field by KATIE APPENZELLER to lead 4-0.

The Knights got on the board with a run in the bottom of the second on a homerun over the left field fence. They would score another run in the bottom of the fourth and three more in the bottom of the fifth to rally and take the lead 5-4.

However, despite trailing the Foothillers did their thing in the top of the sixth with Katie Appenzeller singling to left. She was replaced by KLARISSA ARREOLA as a courtesy runner, as Chloe Camarero singled to right, KIRA ELLIOT would tie the game 5-5 with her single to right scoring Arreola.

In the top of the seventh the Foothillers regained the lead 6-5 on a solo shot by Taylor Baez over the left center field fence. The Knights were able to tie the ball game at 6-6 in their half of the seventh inning, thus sending the game into extra innings.

Both teams would retire each other until the top of the tenth inning when Grossmont finally broke through with a couple of runs to break the tie. Taylor Baez singled to left field, Megan Malwitz sacrificed Baez to second, Katie Appenzeller doubled to left field scoring Baez, and to round out the scoring KAILEY DANIELS smashed a shot past the third baseman to score Appenzeller to make the score 8-6.

The Knights in the bottom of the tenth inning made things interesting as with two outs they singled and a hit batter occurred but the Foothillers were able to hold on for the victory. The Foothillers with the victory were able to avenge the earlier 2-1 loss to the Knights and by doing so eliminated them from the playoffs.

For the Foothillers, CASSIDY DAVILA went the distance for the victory. On the day she was able to fan 10 Knights.

Grossmont will now travel to Serra High on Tuesday (May 26).

OLYMPIAN 6, SERRA 0 — In San Diego CIF Division III second round playoff action, Saturday (May 23) the No. 4 Serra Conquistadors traveled to No. 1 Olympian and unfortunately ran into a buzz saw as they were downed 6-0.

It wasn’t much of a day for the Conquistadors as they were limited to only two hits the entire game. Offensively, AMBER WOZNIAK had a double and TARYN JELLISON had the other base hit.

The Conquistadors will now host Grossmont on Tuesday (May 26).

HIGH TECH HIGH-SD 6, CHRISTIAN 5 (8 inn.) — The No. 2 Christian Patriots hosted the No. 3 High Tech High San Diego, Saturday (May 23) in San Diego CIF Division IV second round action and unfortunately lost 6-5 in 8 innings.

No other details provided.

Christian will host Orange Glenn on Tuesday (May 26).

ORANGE GLEN 4, MONTE VISTA 3 — In San Diego CIF Division IV second round action, Saturday (May 23) the No. 5 Monte Vista Monarchs hosted the No. 8 Orange Glenn Patriots and unfortunately came up on the short end of the 4-3 decision.

No other details provided.

With the loss, the Monte Vista Monarchs are now officially eliminated from the playoffs.

Kyler sends the Eagles to the Second Round

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (5-22-15) — The Granite Hills Eagles looked to continue their dominance and start their quest for a championship, Thursday (May 21). The championship quest started with a home game against the Bulldogs of Calexico. In the end the No. 2 Granite Hills Eagles showed the No.7 Bulldogs why they were the two seed with their 8-0 victory in the double elimination San Diego CIF Division II tournament.

Things went the Eagles way in the bottom of the first as they jumped out on top 2-0 thanks to a double by KAILA DEWITT, a walk by JESSIE LAPIERRE, who both would come in and score on an error that allowed HALLE KYLER to reach base.

In the second inning the floodgates opened for the Eagles as they were able to score six times thanks to multiple base hits. Leadoff hitter KATIE WALL smashed a base hit and moved over on an error that allowed KAYLA MACK to reach, and would score on the sacrifice fly by BRIELLE TYSELLING. KAREN CREECH singled, Kaila Dewitt hit into a fielder’s choice but would be safe, VICTORIA HATHAWAY ripped a triple that scored both Creech and Dewitt. Jessie LaPierre singled bringing in Hathaway, Halle Kyler walked, CASSIDY SHEW singled and up for the second time came Katie Wall who thumped a double that scored both LaPierre and Kyler to round out the scoring at 8-0.

Luckily the Eagles did all their scoring early as they wouldn’t score the rest of the game which saw their defense come through big time as well as the pitching by Halle Kyler. The Eagles on the day were able to hash out 10 hits.

They were also able to rough up the Bulldogs starter KASEY CAZARES for 8 runs of which only 1 was earned while giving up 7 hits, 3 walks and 1 strikeout.

Halle Kyler who was in the circle tossed a complete game shutout only allowing 3 hits, 0 walks and fanned 12.

So with the victory they will now stay in the winners’ bracket for another home game Saturday (May 23) against Escondido who beat Clairemont.

EASTLAKE 1, WEST HILLS 0 — The No. 6 West Hills Wolf Pack traveled to the South Bay to take on the No.3 Eastlake Titans and in an old fashioned duel of pitching and defense it was the Wolf Pack coming out on the short end 1-0 in San Diego CIF Division I playoff action Thursday (May 21).

Both teams matched each other inning for inning as both pitchers slinged it all day long for their respective teams. The Titans would finally breakthrough for the only run of the game in the bottom of the fifth inning thanks to a couple of base hits along with a Wolf Pack miscue. Unfortunately, West Hills couldn’t answer in the final two innings.

On the day the Wolf Pack could only manage three hits of which KELCI ELLIS ALVAREZ went 2-2 and CAELI GIBBS went 1-1.

Taking the circle for the Pack was RYLEIGH DOBYNS who pitched 6 innings, gave up 5 hits, 1 run which was earned and also walked 4 while striking out 5 in the hard luck loss.

So with the loss the Wolf Pack will now move into the bottom bracket where they will face Ramona on Saturday (May 23).

CHRISTIAN 10, MISSION VISTA 0 — In Division IV action of the San Diego CIF playoffs the No. 2 Christian Patriots hosted No. 10 Mission Vista and came away with easy 10-0 victory in 5 innings.

The Patriots scored a run in the first inning and two runs in the second inning to lead 3-0 and broke it open in the third with six runs to lead 9-0 and finalized it with a run in the fifth to finalize the 10-0 score.

Offensively the Patriots were sparked by a few players including GABBY GRABOWSKI 2-3 (3 RBI, 2B), SILENT RAIN ESPINOZA 4-4 (2 RBI, 2 2B, and ANNA SHERBURNE 2-4 (2 RBI). Due to the offensive spark the Patriots were able to completely overwhelm Mission Vista and dominate the shortened game.

Besides having a stellar day at the plate, Gabby Grabowski took the circle and went the distance for the victory, only giving up 3 hits and walking none while fanning 4 batters on the day.

The Patriots will now take on High Tech San Diego on Saturday (May 23).

SERRA 4, SAN DIEGO 0 — The No. 4 Serra Conquistadors hosted the No. 12 San Diego Cavers in San Diego CIF Division III play on Thursday (May 21) and grabbed the 4-0 victory behind pitching and key hits.

The Conquistadors in the bottom of the second inning scored a run to take the early 1-0 lead thanks to TARYN JELLISON who was able to come around and score the lone run. They would score the rest of their runs in the bottom of the third inning. Leading the charge was leadoff hitter DARBY TIBBITS who singled, replaced by DOM AULDS as a courtesy runner, VIVIAN TOMOVICH 2-4 (RBI, R, 2B, 3B) ripped a triple scoring Aulds, and Taryn Jellison laced a single scoring Tomovich, Jellison stole second and would score on the single by TAYLOR CURLY.

Darby Tibbits was in the circle and tossed the complete game shutout. On the day she struck out 9 batters while walking none.

Next up for the Conquistadors will be Olympian, Saturday (May 23).

VISTA 5, GROSSMONT 1 — In San Diego CIF Division III action Thursday (May 21) the No. 6 Grossmont Foothillers traveled to the North County to take on the No. 3 Vista Panthers and dropped the 5-1 decision.

Unfortunately not too many games are won when many are left on base as was the case for the Foothillers as they left 11 stranded. By leaving this many on base they had many chances but unfortunately couldn’t knock the door down.

Grossmont on the day was able to hit the Panther pitching very well as they accounted for 12 hits but again it is all about converting and the Vista Panthers were able to stop that from occurring.

Offensively for the Foothillers, CHLOE CAMARERO had a hit, KIRA ELLIOT banged two hits, TAYLOR BAEZ had two hits, CARLY PEARSON had the lone RBI of the day and KATIE APPENZELLER went 3-3.

So the Foothillers will look to get back on the winning trail as they will take on The Bishop’s, Saturday (May 23) in a rematch from earlier in the season which was won by Bishop’s 2-1.

BRAWLEY 9, VALHALLA 7 — Traveling to the desert is always an interesting adventure because if you win, the trip back is fantastic and if you lose than the trip is a very long one back. Unfortunately for the No. 5 Valhalla Norsemen the latter was the case as they took on the host No. 4 Brawley Wildcats in San Diego CIF Division II action, Thursday (May 21) and dropped the 9-7 decision.

After holding the Norsemen scoreless in the top of the first the Wildcats took the lead as they were able to push across a run to lead 1-0 early on. However the Norsemen turned the tables in the top of the third inning as they scored three runs to take the 3-1 lead on a 3 run bomb by DANIELLE UY, but that wouldn’t last as Brawley scored five times in the bottom half to retake the lead 6-3.

Valhalla would cut the lead to 6-4 in the fifth when ABIGAIL METSCH smoked a solo homer over the fence. However like the previous inning the Wildcats would put more runs on the board as they rounded out their scoring with three runs in the bottom of the fifth inning to lead 9-4.

The Norsemen did their best to come back as they were able to score two runs in the sixth inning as LADY SARA FEDERICO just crushed a 2 run blast to center to make the score 9-6, they were able to tack on another run in the seventh to make it 9-7 but that is the closest they would get as Brawley was able to finally end the game.

What doomed the Norsemen was the defense as they had numerous miscues that led to four unearned runs on the day. So with the loss the Norsemen will drop to the bottom bracket where they will take on No. 9 OLP on Saturday (May 23).

LA JOLLA 5, MONTE VISTA 1 — In San Diego CIF Division IV the No. 5 Monte Vista Monarchs traveled to No. 4 La Jolla on Thursday (May 23) and dropped the decision 5-1.

No other info provided.

On the Road to UCSD!

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (5-21-15) — Well now the real fun begins, the third part of the season, the playoffs where anything can happen as teams vie for the championship of their respective divisions. The day saw some upsets across the county and many close games as well as some runaways.

VALHALLA 4, FRANCIS PARKER 0 — In San Diego CIF Division II playoff action the host No. 5 Valhalla Norsemen took on the No.12 Lancers of Francis Parker in the play in game on Wednesday (May 20) and came away with the 4-0 victory.

Things started out even as both teams were able to get through the first inning unscathed without any damage done. However in the bottom of the second inning the Norsemen struck first as they were able to push across a run to lead 1-0 early on.

Leading off for the Norsemen, VICTORIA VILLEGAS 1-3 (2B) who blasted a double, the next two batters would be retired so with two outs, up stepped ABIGAIL METSCH 2-3 (RBI, 2B) who laced a single that scored Villegas from second.

Looking to add to their lead the Norsemen in the bottom of the third inning as ANNAMARIE IULIANO 2-4 (R) led off with a single, KENNEDY LABSHERE 1-4 (RBI, R, 2B) doubled in Iuliano, DANIELLE UY 2-3 (2 R, 2 2B) doubled moving Labshere to third and KATIE SCHMIDT 1-3 (RBI) grounded to short scoring Labshere. Uy would also score as well in the inning to round out the scoring.

The Norsemen would tack on their final run of the game in the bottom of the fifth inning on a leadoff double by Danielle Uy who came in on a single by Katie Schmidt who actually was able to get to third on a ball getting by the right fielder as she tried to run the ball down.

Taking the circle for Valhalla was freshman pitcher LILY METSCH who went 6 innings for the victory which was her first career CIF playoff win. She was relieved in the top of the seventh by TORI BASSETTE who came in and mowed down the Lancers in order to end the game.

On the day Metsch only gave up a couple of hits for the shutout victory. Helping out the pitching in the contest was the defense which played stellar the entire game.

WEST HILLS 11, MISSION HILLS 8 — In Santee the No.6 West Hills Wolf Pack hosted the No.11 Mission Hills Grizzlies and despite committing four errors on the day were able to pull out the gut wrenching 11-8 victory in the Division I contest on Wednesday (May 20).

In the top of the first inning thanks to back to back walks and a couple of singles, the Grizzlies jumped right out to the 2-0 lead. But that didn’t deter the Wolf Pack as they roared back in the bottom of the first and pushed across three runs of their own to take the lead. The leadoff hitter BROOKE ROBERTS singled, KELCI ELLIS-ALVAREZ 2-3 (RBI, R, 2 2B) sacrificed Roberts to second and KENDALL MARINESI grounded out to short. So with two outs ALEX GUAY stepped to the plate and was able to draw the walk, PAIGE BOWLER 2-4 (4 RBI, R, HR, 2B) took the count to 2-2 and on the next pitch ripped a three run blast over the fence to take the one run lead 3-2.

Now leading, the Wolf Pack looked to push their lead even further and were able to do so as they took advantage of a couple of wild pitches and a passed ball along with multiple walks to score two more runs to make it 5-2. NIKKI LEGGATTE 2-4 (2 RBI) singled, she would be replaced by ALEXIS HERRERA as a courtesy runner, both she and MELISSA CASTILLO would score in the inning.

West Hills in the bottom of the fourth would score two more times to lead 7-2. Kelci Ellis-Alvarez doubled, Kendall Marinesi doubled her in, Paige Bowler with two outs smashed a double scoring Marinesi, That’s all the Wolf Pack would get as Mission Hills was able to get out of the inning without any further damage done.

Mission Hills up until the top of the fifth inning had been held scoreless and despite trailing by five runs were able to cut into the lead thanks to a couple of base hits and also a couple of miscues by the Wolf Pack defense, leaving the Grizzlies trailing 7-4. Now only leading by three, West Hills managed to score another run to extend their lead on a double by Ellis-Alvarez that scored Castillo to lead 8-4.

Knowing they were down to their final at-bats of the game, the Grizzlies went to work in the top of the sixth inning and thanks to multiple base hits along with a fielder’s choice and another West Hills miscue, they clawed their way to even the score at 8-8. No further damage was done as West Hills was finally able to get out of the inning.

Despite allowing the Grizzlies to come back, the Wolf Pack regrouped and went back to business as that has been their M.O. the entire season in winning the late inning dramatic games. In their half of the sixth, the Wolf Pack got an RBI single by MOANA PISIA, and a two run double by Nikki Leggate that scored both Pisia and SYDNEY CRAVEN. These three runs propelled the Wolf Pack into the lead 11-8 which would be the final score as Ellis-Alvarez retired the Grizzlies 1-2-3 in the top of the seventh to end the game.

MATER DEI CATHOLIC 3, PATRICK HENRY 0 — The Open Division of the San Diego CIF playoffs pits what is considered to be the best of the best in San Diego County and at Patrick Henry High two of the top teams were showcased as the No. 5 Mater Dei Catholic Crusaders traveled inland to take on the No. 4 Patriots. In the end the Crusaders were able to come up with the 3-0 victory Wednesday (May 20).

The first couple of innings saw both teams match each other as they both went scoreless, but in the top of the third inning the Crusaders got on the board first as they punched across two runs to lead 2-0 thanks to a lead hit by pitch, a sacrifice and a single as well as an error by the Patriots.

The Patriots, who were coming into the contest on a three game winning streak and also winners of four of the last five including a tie, just couldn’t get the bats going to allow their high powered offense to be jump started. The Crusaders would tack on their final run in the top of the fifth.

On the day for the Patriots, SYDNEY JAMES, DANIELLE ROMERO who had a double, and HANNAH McEWEN who also had a double were the only ones to gain hits.

Taking the hard luck loss was MADISON “MJ” JAMES who went the full 7 innings, gave up 3 runs of which 2 were earned on 5 hits while walking 2 and striking out 1.

GROSSMONT 8, CORONADO 2 — In Division III play, the No. 6 Grossmont Foothillers hosted the No. 11 Coronado Islanders Wednesday (May 20) and came away with the 8-2 victory.

The top of the first saw the Islanders get the jump on the Foothillers as they scored the first run on a leadoff double to left. They would come around to score on a sacrifice thanks to an overthrow to first base to make the score 1-0.

The early deficit wouldn’t hold for long for Grossmont as the always dangerous CHLOE CAMARERO singled to right field. She promptly stole second base and moved to third on a passed ball. KIRA ELLIOTT doubled to right field bringing in Camarero, CARLY PEARSON singled to left which scored Elliott, the RBI by Pearson would end up being the game winner as the Foothillers would never trail again.

In the bottom of the third, again Chloe Camarero got on via a smashed triple to the corner in left field, the next batter Kira Elliott would be hit by a pitch, TAYLOR BAEZ would knock in Camarero with a single to right field, Carly Pearson singled to left field scoring Elliott, and finally ALEXIS COLLINS singled to left center scoring Baez to make the score 5-1.

Grossmont in the bottom of the fourth was able to push across another run thanks to a single by KAILEY DANIELS. MEGAN MALWITZ would lay down a sacrifice and on this play Daniels was actually allowed to move to third base due to a lack of coverage at third as the third baseman went to field the ball. So with runners at the corners Kira Elliott singled scoring Daniels.

In the fifth inning the Foothillers rounded out their scoring as both Pearson and LILI FLORES, who had come in as a courtesy runner for Alexis Collins who had doubled, were able to score.

Taking the circle for the Foothillers was CASSIDY DAVILA who went all 7 innings for the win, giving up 2 runs of which both were earned on 4 hits while walking 3 and fanning 5 on the day.

MONTE VISTA 12, SAN DIEGO SOUTHWEST 6 — The No. 5 Monte Vista Monarchs hosted the No. 12 San Diego Southwest Raiders in the San Diego CIF Division IV playoffs and were able to double off the Raiders by a score of 12-6.

No other details were provided

CENTRAL UNION 14, HELIX 5 — In Division III the No. 8 Helix Highlanders hosted the No. 9 Spartans of Central Union and unfortunately took the 14-5 loss.

No other details were provided.