ROCKINGHAM – Raider fans gathered in the stands as the Varsity softball team celebrated their seniors on April 21. The two seniors, #3 Hayden Robinson and #13 Kinsey Lyerly, were showcased on Tuesday night before their scheduled match against the Overhills Jaguars.
Robinson and Lyerly took to the field with their loved ones, walking the bases as they prepare to graduate next month. After walking the bases, their teammates gave them a bag full of gifts and embraced their graduating peers. Both softball teams were also able to overcome the Overhills Jaguars — the cherry on top of a beautiful evening.
The JV Raiders came in with an 11-1 overall record and the JV Jaguars came in with a 3-7 overall record. Freshman Autumn Cooper pitched the entire game, only allowing one hit, allowing zero runs, and striking out six of the Jags. Cooper’s strong defense made this game one-sided from the start, allowing Richmond to dominate. Cooper also proved herself when she was at-bat, with two hits, a pair of RBIs, and a triple. Sophomore Annabelle Millen had three hits, three RBIS, and two doubles. Freshman Grace Hill had two hits and two runs. Freshman Lyra Newton had one hit, two runs, and an RBI. These shining stars helped Richmond come out with the shut-out 15-0 final.
The Varsity Raiders continued the winning day when they pulled out a 13-11 victory.
The Varsity Raiders came in with a 6-11 overall record against the Varsity Jag’s 9-7. Junior Emma Rusich pitched five innings, allowing six runs (four of which were earned) and striking out five batters. Sophomore Mackenzie Quick pitched two innings, allowing five runs (with three of those being earned) and striking out four batters. At the plate, Rusich also contributed when she went 2-for-3 with two RBIs and a pair of doubles. Freshman Ava Clarke went 3-for-4 with three RBIs and a triple. Sophomore Sydney Barnes went 3-for-4 as well, scoring three runs. Sophomore Lexi Smith went 2-for-3 with two runs. The combination of defense and offense helped the Lady Raiders overcome the Lady Jaguars.
The Raiders Softball teams will both compete against the Lumberton Pirates on April 27. The JV team will start the day at 4:30 p.m., with the Varsity team following at 7 p.m. The JV Pirates are coming in with a 0-7 overall record and the Varsity Pirates are coming in with a 12-9 overall record.