Fairfield wrap and seasons end

Another tournament in the books, the 5th and final time on the dirt for the 2010 Wildcats Fastpitch squad. Fairfield brought a familiar foe and 2 new teams including an "A" team for the Wildcats to battle. As always the 2010 Wildcats would give the fans what they came for, competitive, close, real softball games. Bats seemed to continue their quiet trend from the Cloverdale tournament with only Taylor and Hillary getting hits in game 1, though the pitching would keep the game close. Taylor would only give up 1 real hit in the game. A momentary lapse on defense offered the opposition just enough to squeak out the win, but not without another international tie breaker extra inning game. The Wildcats would put the winning run on third but not be able to get Linzey in during the bottom of the last. Another great pitching performance in game 2 saw Taylor only give up 3 hits in the 6 inning game. A tough foul ball off of the finger knocked lead off hitter Mackenzie out of the game with a badly injured finger. Again just a couple of plays, bounces, or throws put us behind by just 1 run. Another hard fought game with the Wildcats scoring late on a double by Katrina, and a single by Linzey showing the bottom of the order has something to offer at the plate. Saja would start game 3 and pitch beautifully, mixing fastballs and change ups and starting to work the corners as well. 1 hit allowed. Offense would see a few pitches to hit and make the most of their chances with hits spread well up and down the order. Sunday morning saw costly defensive miscues again put the Cats down 3-0 after the top of the first. They of course would battle back with Taylor stealing home for the first run, Haley doubling in 2 more to tie the game. Again falling behind by 2 in the bottom of the sixth. Saja would walk, Mackenzie would beat out a single and Taylor would send a 2 run double to left center to tie the game. 2 tough strikeouts with the winning run on third would bring the international tie breaker back into play. The Wildcats would fall short in extra innings and leave Fairfield much to early.

The season ended like it started with the girls giving everything that they had. Learning how to win and learning how to lose, the 2010 Wildcats grew as individuals and as a team. Good times and bad times, highlights and low lights. A lot to look forward to as the Wildcats move forward. If was truly my pleasure to coach the Wildcats this summer, thank you for allowing the girls to play with us and for supporting them all summer long. Until next time, never be satisfied, don't be afraid to be great.