The Ursinus Softball team currently has a record of 8-12 and an in-conference record of 1-1. They recently just came back from a huge away trip to Florida, where they unfortunately finished 3-7.
The team will look to turn things around beginning in conference play, with the help of many talented players who have been essential to the team thus far. There are many players who stand out in the line up and on the field, like senior Kayla Carr, who has 7 home runs, and senior Christa Andrusiewicz, with an ERA of 2.87. Along with these veteran players, there are also many impactful players who are freshmen, but play like veterans: Nina Davidson, Tierney Struempfle, and Maddie Rea.
Nina Davidson, an infielder from Queens, NY, is a clutch hitter for the Bears no matter the pressure. Most recently, she had an incredible performance in a double-header against McDaniel College. With the Bears trailing 6-0, Davidson ignited a rally that will be remembered as the turning point in the game and perhaps in the season. Davidson finished the game with 6 RBIs as well as a two-run double to give Ursinus the lead. Davidson attacks her infield play at shortstop the same way as her batting, by being a consistent defender who does not let opposing batters get on base. Davidson stands out in the big moments and will be key for the Bears as they continue to battle in the Centennial Conference.
Tierney Struempfle, the first-year from Marysville, PA, has been holding down the fort at first base, shown by her 111 total POs so far this season. Besides her consistent fielding, she is also a reliable offensive player when she steps into the batters box. Her best game offensively so far was against Immaculata, when she recorded a two-run double to seal the win for Ursinus. Struempfle currently has 20 hits, including 4 doubles this season and continues to be a dangerous power hitter for the Bears. Her ability to extend innings with her power hitting, and be consistent at first base will continue to be a threat to many upcoming opposing teams.
Maddie Rea, the outfielder from Yardley, PA, is another secret weapon both in the field and at the plate. Offensively, she has shown up in big moments, like in Florida when she cleared the bases with a three-run double to tie the game against Edgewood University. She has showcased both speed and power, evident by her ability to hit the gap and record doubles against major opponents like Immaculata and Edgewood. She is also consistent in her defensive abilities in the outfield, with a fielding percentage of .923. She is a player that can disrupt teams effectively and strategically, which will be important for the Bears as they continue their season.
These first-years are extremely important for Ursinus Softball, both offensively and defensively, as the Bears look to continue Centennial Conference match ups. Besides Elizabethtown College, the Bears will have four Centennial Conference matchups against Gettysburg College, Swarthmore College, Dickinson College, and Muhlenberg College. Although conference play is just beginning, it is important to note that Gettysburg College, Swarthmore College, and Muhlenberg College are all above Ursinus currently in the conference rankings. This means that Ursinus will have to continue to give everything they have to win against these tough opponents, to hopefully be one of the top teams in the conference. These talented freshmen, along with their veteran teammates, will have to be clutch in the moments that matter, when the opportunities arise.