U12 Babe Ruth Softball Team Reaches States

After a promising start, the Newtown Hawks U12 softball team was eliminated in the Babe Ruth State Tournament play in Stamford over the Fourth of July weekend.

The Hawks took the Friday night opener, beating Norwalk 11-8 in a come-from-behind effort. Alena Ruscoe pitched five strong innings and Courtney Escoda pitched one inning in relief to combine for the win. Julia Frattaroli led the offense with two hits and Escoda, Julia LeBlanc, Emily Nacewicz, Lillia McEnaney, Melanie Rotante and Kayla O’Grady chipped in with one apiece.

Next in line for the Hawks was the strong Brookfield squad which overpowered the locals 15-2.

Playing in double elimination format, the Hawks went on to face a deep and talented Southbury team. Ruscoe tossed a six-inning gem, holding her opponents to just two runs. Ahead 4-2 going in to the final inning, defensive miscues from the Hawks allowed Southbury to tie the game 4-4 and force extra innings. Ruscoe, though still throwing strong and still holding the tie through seven innings, had reached the maximum innings allowed for a pitcher under Babe Ruth rules. Despite a courageous relief effort by Escoda, the Southbury team plated seven runs in the eighth (five unearned) while the Hawks could only muster one in response, losing 11-5. The Hawks had numerous opportunities throughout the game to build their lead and stranded seven base runners in scoring position. Escoda provided the offensive bright spot, leading her team with a triple and two singles.

Ultimately, host Stamford won the State Title with Brookfield and Southbury finishing second and third. The Hawks resume play in the Fairfield County Fastpitch League this week.