MILFORD, New Hampshire – It was an enjoyable visit, albeit a brief one.

The Newtown Babe Ruth Softball 10-and-under All Star qualified for the New England Regional Tournament in Milford, New Hampshire last weekend, but losses to Rochester, New Hampshire (14-3), and Souhegan Valley, New Hampshire (4-1), had the locals leaving early.

“I was very proud of our team’s efforts in the tournament,” said head coach Nancy Bowen. “Unfortunately, we faced some tough breaks and failed to outscore our opponents. On a positive note, our bunting game improved and helped provide offensive pressure, we banged out 8 hits in a game and at times we had outstanding pitching.”

A tough, first-round draw had Newtown squaring off with Rochester, New Hampshire (the eventual New England champs). Kate Bowen, Ally Modzelewski and Stephanie Sanchez combined on the mound for Newtown. Bowen collected two hits while Paige Woodhouse ripped an RBI double. Ashley Kuligowski, Rachael Ruiz and Woodhouse scored runs for the Hawks. Stephanie Suhoza, Modzelewski, Ruiz Kate Bowen made nice plays in the field.

And Kuligowski (the catcher) was awarded the WOW game MVP award for Newtown.

In the loss to Souhegan Valley, Modzewlewski banged out two hits and pitched three inningsof no-hit ball (with five strikeouts) to lead the way. Bowen pitched three innings, as well, and struck out seven. On offense, Nicole Elias ripped an RBI single (scoring Rachael Ruiz for the Hawks’ only run of the game).

The Hawks had five other hits, but failed to string them together for runs. Taylor Johnson, Suhoza, Ruiz, Bowen and Kuligowski each collected singles. Johnson made a great play in right field as she threw out a runner denying her a base hit. Kuligowski made a nice play at shortstop and Bowen played well at short field.

Outfielders Kelly Burton, Jackie Kissack and Brooke Fell also participated in the New England Regional tournament for the Hawks. Ruiz, at first base, was awarded the WOW game MVP award for Newtown.

“Every time you get a chance to participate in a tournament as prestigious as the New England Regionals, it is an honor just to be there,” said coach Bowen. “The girls had a great time in New Hampshire ... on and off the field. We had a terrific group of parents who provided a lot of support and also initiated fun team-bonding activities. Experiences like this are to be cherished and the memories they create are truly special.”