The Western New England University (WNE) Golden Bears Softball team secured victory on Sunday, May 13 emerging as the 2024 Commonwealth Coast Conference (CCC) champions in a high-stakes showdown against the Roger Williams University Hawks. The Golden Bears claimed the title with a resounding 9-3 win, demonstrating their skill and determination on the diamond.
The championship clash began with both teams trading blows in a fiercely contested first inning. WNE wasted no time asserting their dominance, opening the scoring with three early runs. However, the resilient Hawks swiftly responded, leveling the score at 3-3 by the end of the inning.
In a pivotal fifth inning, Kailey Carrano delivered a two-run homer, igniting a scoring spree for the Golden Bears. Building upon Carrano's momentum, WNE added four more runs to their tally, seizing control of the game and setting the stage for their eventual triumph.
Taylor Keegan delivered a flawless 3-for-3 performance at the plate. Pitcher Ava Blanchard showcased her exceptional skill and composure on the mound, pitching 6.1 innings, conceding only one hit and no earned runs while striking out five batters, ultimately earning the CCC Championship win for WNE.
With this victory, the Golden Bears extended their season record to an impressive 27-13 (11-5), underscoring their resilience and competitive spirit throughout the tournament. Roger Williams University Hawks concluded their season with a commendable 23-17 (9-7) record.
The Golden Bears are poised to carry their momentum into the NCAA Tournament on Thursday, May 16, where they will take on Tufts University in Medford, MA at 12:00 noon.
UPDATE May 14th, 2024: Join us at the Softball Send-off! On Wednesday, May 15 at 10:30 a.m. EST in front of the Anthony S. Caprio Alumni Healthful Living Center
