Garnet Win Season Opener
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The Swarthmore softball team continued to take down milestones, winning its season opener for the first time in 16 years after sweeping a doubleheader at Catholic University on Saturday afternoon.
Freshman Kathryn Riley made a formidable start to her collegiate career, tossing a complete-game shutout in the first game as Swarthmore won 3-0. Riley allowed only three hits and fanned five batters to pick up her first collegiate win, leading Swarthmore to a season-opening win for the first time since a 3-1 win over Fordham in 1991. Shortstop Katherine Gold '08 led the offense with a two-hit, two-RBI effort while returning All-Region performer Christine Sendelsky '09 chipped in a double and a single.
The Garnet used a five-run fourth inning to blow open the second game, supporting a strong pitching effort by starter Alexandra Zelaski '09 (four innings, K) and senior Marianne Klingaman. Senior Kelly Siano was a perfect 3-for-3 at the plate with a walk, RBI and two runs scored while Riley went 2-for-3 with a double and an RBI.
The Garnet head off to Georgia this week for the Smash Hit Spring Break Tournament hosted by the Savannah College of Art and Design. Swarthmore opens tournament against Mississippi Baptist on Tues., March 13 at 2:00 p.m., followed by a 4:00 p.m. affair with Chowan. Swarthmore is scheduled to make its 2007 home debut on Tuesday, March 20 when Wesley (DE) comes to Clothier Fields for a 3:00 p.m. twinbill.