After trailing 3-0 early, the De Anza Lady Dons rose to the occasion, defeating Los Medanos 11-8 last Thursday.

Michelle Baca had an outstanding day at the plate for the Lady Dons, pounding out three hits. A single, double and triple left her a home run shy of the cycle.

The team is defending their 2000 Coast Conference Championship, which they earned after a 40-10 season last year.

“A slow start didn’t deter these girls,” said Head Coach Dennis Pennell.

Leading 9-6 after the sixth inning, the Lady Dons garnered two additional runs, extending their lead to 11-7.

On the last play of the game, a pop fly by Los Medanos dropped in shallow left field after an error. Two runners attempted to score. The first scored, but the second was tagged out seconds later when both runners collided with the catcher.

Three hits by Jody Shaw, and two each by Cortney Canter and Stephanie Miran contributed to the home victory. Elizabeth Crooks (1-0) was the winning pitcher and Karin Wilburn, who won the first two games on the mound, closed out the victory.

“We have a way to go, with a young team and all our injuries … when we get back to normal and become healthy, we should be a lot better,” said Pennell.

Pennell says that the roster has been shuffled, with natural outfielders are playing infield and catcher.

“We’re 3-0, and wins are wins. I think we’ll have a good season and have great expectations,” said Pennell.

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2001 Softball Roster

Michelle Baca

Malia Baxter

Cortney Canter

Elizabeth Crooks

Mary Dunn

Karin Milburn

Nina Miller

Stephanie Miran

Catrina Miranda

Jennifer Murnin

Breana Romo

Jody Shaw

Upcoming Schedule

Tuesday vs. Cabrillo 3:00 pm

Sat-Sun Tournament TBA @Visalia

Feb. 20 @Hartnell 3:00 pm

Feb. 22 vs. Foothill 3:00 pm

Sat-Sun Tournament TBA @ Monterey

Feb. 27 @ Ohlone 3:00 pm

March 1 vs. Chabot 3:00 pm