WOMEN'S SOFTBALL 2006

Recap 2005
Region XIX Champions
2005 National Champions
Record: 49-8

The Jersey Blues had their most successful season in their history. Brookdale captured their second National Championship, winning the other in 2002. They also won their 10 th straight Region 19 Championship. Brookdale started their historic season going 8-1 on their southern trip. Brookdale won the Region 19 Championship in dominating fashion. Brookdale scored 34 runs in three games, including a 13-3 win over Sussex County College in the Championshhip game on May 7. Jessica Williams was selected MVP in the regional Championship. The Jersey Blues won four straight games in the national tournament, including a sparkling 3-0 victory over Broome Community College in the national Championship game. The 49 victories the Jersey Blues compiled was a school record. Lynn Olender was selected MVP in the Nationals, and Elyse Papaianni, Erin Covell, and Allyson Weinkofsky were selected to the All National Tournament team.

2006 Outlook

The Jersey Blues will return five players on last year’s National Championship team. Once again, one of the team’s strength will be the depth in the pitching staff. Erin Covell (9-2, 1.75 ERA) will head the staff. Erin will also play third base when not on the mound. Kara Hertzke (1-0 1.40ERA) will be counted on to contribute heavily. Kara will do some DHing when not pitching. Both girls will be counted on offensively to lead the attack. Erin Covell (316, 8HR, 42RBI) and Kara Hertzke (.407ERA, 5HR, 48RBI) will be in the middle of the order. Amanda Roberts (3-0, 3.50 ERA) and freshman Kelly Hughes will see significant time on the mound, also. Returning to play this season is two-time All State Selection, Suzanne Gorczynski. Suzanne will be behind the plate, along with Freshman Jessica Sepe. Suzanne will also see time at shortstop and Jessica will see some time in the outfield. Allyson Weinkofsky (.372ERA, 34RBI, 65R) will return at first base. Jenna Criscuolo and Liz Anastasio will both see action at second base. Liz will also play third base when Erin Covell is pitching. Holly Quinlan has the inside track as the shortstop with Suzanne Gorcynski also getting playing time. Lynn Olender (385 BA, 2HR, 29RBI, 77R, 24SB) will return as the centerfielder. Freshman Lauren Ceravolo and Mandy Kapsales have the inside track as the starting flank outfielders. Kelly Kwiatkowski, Karen Conway and Jessica Sepe will see some time in the outfield.