The Valhalla Norsemen celebrate at home plate following a walk-off, grand slam by Norsemen senior first baseman Kiki Brown (top), shocking visiting University City, 12-11, at Leto Field. (Photo by James Labshere)

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
RANCHO SAN DIEGO (5-1-12) — Blame this one on the sunflower seeds.

"I prefer the chili lime flavor," said Valhalla High first baseman KIKI BROWN. "It's all about the seeds."

Seeds, indeed.

Brown hit a "seed" – baseball vernacular for a home run – by going to the opposite field for a walk-off grand slam, allowing the Norsemen to stun University City, 12-11, in Monday's (Apr. 30) non-league ballgame at Leto Field.

"Their pitcher went away, so I just went that way, too," noted Brown, who has registered walk-off hits before, but never by a home run yet allow a grand slam. "It felt pretty exciting."

Anybody but the Norsemen were feeling giddy after the Centurions mounted a 10-2 lead heading toward the bottom of the 5th. Whispers in the stands included going home early by run-rule.

However, a 2-run single by KATIE SCHMIDT moved the Norsemen to within 10-5 through five innings, then Valhalla added four more runs in the 6th, most via the long ball.

DANIELLE UY belted a one-out homer to left. Then with two out, Brown just missed on a homer which was foul (although the ball sailed more than 240 feet off a shed), eventually reaching on a line single, then scoring when DIONNA SMITH went yard to left to move within 10-7.

And when KAYLIE HIPWELL and EMILY ORDONEZ added consecutive doubles, the deficit was down to 10-8.

In the 7th, University City (8-10-1) got one run back, but Valhalla 's bats remained on a roll.

KYRA AYALA accepted a one-out walk, a hard grounder by Uy went through the shortstop for a tough error, then MADISON LABSHERE singled to left to load the bases for Brown. As soon as Brown realized that UC was going to pitch her outside, she lifted a ball that was on the corner, but a touch elevated, beyond the barrier in right-center field.

The 2 1/2-hour marathon featured 31 hits, including 18 by University City. However, the Cents stranded 14 runners over the first six innings, preventing them from winning by run rule. Conversely, Valhalla rebounded by collecting 10 of its 13 basehits over the final three innings, when they scored 10 times in the remarkable triumph.

For Valhalla, Uy, Brown, Smith, Hipwell, Ordonez and Schmidt all registered two hits each. Schmidt's effort included four RBI, including a run-scoring single in the 2nd, a sacrifice fly in the 4th, then a 2-run basehit in the 5th before lining out to end the 6th.

The Centurions saw junior shortstop Kristy Patterson go 3-for-5 with four RBI, while junior Brishan Scott, who made several nice stops at third base, also went 3-for-5 with a pair of doubles.

Grossmont pitcher Cel Davila allowed just one earned run in stopping Scripps Ranch, 5-1. (Photo by Steve Crisci)

GROSSMONT 5, SCRIPPS RANCH 1 – Following an early exchange of solo home runs in the 3rd inning, the Foothillers were gifted a pair of runs during a 3-run rally in the 4th, giving the Grossmont Hills League another victory over an Eastern League school in Monday's (Apr. 30) non-league ballgame at Scripps Ranch.

AUBRIE MAY belted a homer to right to give Grossmont the initial lead, only to be matched in the bottom half of the frame by the Falcons' Bryanna Datko.

However in the 4th, consecutive basehits by KIRA ELLIOTT, KATHERINE TREJO and AMANDA PORTER loaded the bases, followed by back-to-back walks to May and CEL DAVILA to force home the go-ahead runs.

SARAH NICKS followed by an RBI single to make it 4-1, then Nicks added a run-scoring double in the 6th, driving in Davila, who singled and stole second base. Davila was also the winning pitcher for the Hillers (14-10). The Falcons fell to 10-10.

EASTLAKE 10, STEELE CANYON 5 – The Cougars carried a 4-0 lead into the 5th inning, but the visiting Titans let loose for eight runs to steal Monday's (Apr. 30) non-league game.

MOLLY HUTCHISON, who went 2-for-4 with two RBI, book-ended the scoring for Steele Canyon. Her hard ground single brought home AMANDA HARTNETT (single) in the 1st, then Hutchison smacked a lead-off homer in the 5th.

In between, the Cougars (16-9) scored three times in the 2nd.

KAYLIE AZEVEDO opened the frame with a bunt single, scoring on an ALYSSA MASCARI triple to right field for a 2-0 lead. TORI YANITOR followed with an RBI double to left, then she scored on a line basehit to right by KYLIE STEAGALL.

Eastlake's big inning saw Haydn Christenson hit a lead double, then five singles, three walks and a pair of errors allowed the Titans (7-11) to move in front to stay. Meanwhile, sister Dylan Christenson left the contest in the 4th after injuring her hand after flagging a fly ball by KYLIE STEAGALL.

Helix' Chanelle Ward (7) scores a 1st-inning run in Monday's extra-inning affair with Serra. (Photo by Tony Bordine)

SERRA 10, HELIX 1 (9 inn.) – The Highlanders have dropped more than their share of ballgames in the 7th inning in recent weeks, but this one must sting a bit more.

After surviving in the 7th inning to forge extra innings, the visiting Conquistadors busted loose for nine runs in the 9th inning to claim Monday's (Apr. 30) non-league game

"Everything Serra hit fell in the right spot and there wasn't much we could do to defend it," said Scotties coach EMILY KOWALSKI. "Both teams fought hard but we came out on the losing end – 0 again.”

For Helix (8-16), SAMANTHA CUNNINGHAM drove in the team's lone run, lining a single to score CHANELLE WARD for a 1-0, 1st-inning lead. Serra (11-8) tied the contest in the 5th before erupting in the 9th.

OTAY RANCH 6, SANTANA 3 – The Sultans may have been looking ahead to Tuesday's Grossmont Conference Tournament title game against City of Santee rival West Hills in a Top 10 showdown, falling on the road to the Mustangs in a non-league affair Monday (Apr. 30).

The difference was a 3-run homer by senior first baseman Sonia Mazon to grab a 3-1 lead in the 4th, then Otay Ranch (15-8) punched across three additional runs in the 5th.

Santana opened the scoring on an RBI double to left by KENDRA KUPER, bringing home TARA GRENNAN (lead single).

Following Mazon's homer, the Sultans got even with a pair of runs in the 5th.

Once again, Santana leadoff hitter ARIEL RASMUSSON. who batted 3-for-4 on the afternoon, opened with a lead-off basehit. KAYTI GRABLE followed with a double, but when the outfielder muffed in recovering the ball, Rasmusson circled the bases.

Grable then tied the game, coming home on a sacrifice fly by ALICIA ZUNIGA.

Santana (21-5) had one late chance after two were out in the 7th, receiving a walk and a pair of infield singles on grounders to deep shortstop to load the bases, but Otay Ranch escaped on a pop-up to shortstop.

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
CLAIREMONT MESA (4-29-12) — Following the program's biggest victory in more than a decade, the Helix Highlanders nearly bounced back to defeat the toughest CIF-San Diego Section ballclub in Division IV.

The Scotties scored three runs in the 7th inning, then brought the potential go-ahead run to the plate, but tournament host Madison hung on for Saturday's (Apr. 28) 5-3 semifinal-round decision over Helix. They went on to down Del Norte, 5-3 in 8 innings, capturing the Warhawk-Friar Classic.

MADISON 5, HELIX 3 – The Warhawks posted three quick runs in the 1st inning, including an RBI by Madison pitcher and tournament MVP Bre Eaker, to mount a 5-0 lead before hanging on for their lives.

In the 7th inning, easily the Scotties' poorest inning all season, the guests took control in a wild finish.

Consecutive doubles by SYDNI TOILOLO and SAM CUNNINGHAM produced a run before Madison registered a pair of outs. But the third out would not come easily.

CLARISSA SMITH singled home Cunningham to trim the deficit to 5-2, BRAY MONTEROSSA walked, then KEANA NAKATA singled home Cunningham, a senior who was named to the all-tournament team.

So with the tying runs on base, CHANELLE WARD came to the plate and drilled a line drive up the middle which would've easily brought home both baserunners. However, Eaker provented the ball from hitting her in the face by gloving the screamer for the final out.

FALLBROOK 11, HELIX 1 – After dropping a heart-breaker, the Scotties needed to immediately play in the third-place game of the Warhawk-Friar Classic, falling to the Warriors (16-9) in four innings.

Fallbrook's Kaylie Drew went 2-for-3 with three runs and four RBI, including a homer and a double.

"We only had 15 minutes between games, but by that time we were out of gas and pitchers and catchers," said Helix coach EMILY KOWALSKI.

Meanwhile, the tournament title game went to Madison, which took over operation of the Friar Classic this season, then went out and won it in its first try as hosts. The event will simply be called the Warhawk Classic in 2013.

In the international tiebreaker, catcher Kaylee Felix scorched a hot grounder off the glove of the second baseman to drive in the go-ahead run. Meanwhile, Eaker escaped a jam with Nighthawks runners on second and third in the bottom of the 8th, finishing with a perfect 6-0 record in the event to gain tournament MVP honors.

"This was an important win because we really want to be the top seed in the playoffs," said Eaker, who will join former East County standouts at RICKI GENTRY (Christian High) and ALISHA WYCKOFF (El Capitan) at Western New Mexico next season.

Madison also won the event without standout shortstop Monica Downey. The senior is on the shelf with a twisted knee. Two others Warhawks were also missing from the starting line-up.

Madison is coached by West Hills High head football coach TAY SNEDDON.

Helix' Desirae Bordine (18) is all smiles following her 2-run homer, leading the Scotties past host West Hills, 3-1, in Friday's huge GHL upset win. (Photo by Tony Bordine)

© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (4-28-12) — The depth of the Grossmont Hills League, when compared to the highly touted Palomar League, has been vindicated. On Friday (Apr. 27). last-place Helix, winless in five GHL starts, shocked almost everyone by taking down No. 4 rated West Hills, 3-1, creating a mad scramble in the standings.

Scotties pitcher MARISSA HAMPTON, who doesn't possess the speed of opposing pitcher NOELLE JOHNSON, still was able to best the Wolf Pack senior despite a series of hard-hit balls by the hosts. By the time Hampton allowed her lone run, Helix had already mounted a 3-0 lead.

"It's a huge victory for us – especially since we've been playing so well of late yet found ways to lose," said Helix head coach EMILY KOWALSKI. "This time, we found a way to win... the girls really deserve this."

Meanwhile, the camp of the talented Wolf Pack may be in shambles, at least mentally, in a difficult sandwich scheduling situation, especially with Tuesday's showdown coming up with No. 3 Santana and the Grossmont Conference Tournament championship on the line.

"I let the girls go home and let them think about this one over the weekend," said West Hills head coach MIKE APPLEBAUM. "Helix' pitcher is slow, but the coaches told the players not to swing at the first pitch, but there they go swinging at the first pitch anyway. We hit a bunch of balls hard, but still we weren't very disciplined at the plate."

DESIRAE BORDINE supplied all of the offense needed by Hampton. Following a leadoff walk to SYDNI TOILOLO, Bordine launched a 2-run homer to right-center field.

In the 5th, Helix needed four baserunners to produce an important insurance run.

PRECIOUS SETTIA-NOA and Toilolo singled, Bordine walked to load the bases, then Hampton 's grounder up the middle went for an RBI fielder's choice to second base, with Settia-Noa coming home.

West Hills broke through in the 6th following consecutive basehits to lead off. KAYCEE AQUININGOC bunted her way on, then MELISSA EGGLESTON reached with a slap single. Johnson lined out to Hampton, who then fired to first base for what was ruled a double play on a controversial call.

However, Wolf Pack catcher CORTNEY HORNE, who batted 2-for-3, doubled to right-center field to bring Aquininogoc home.

Hampton retired the final batter in the 6th, then KEANA NAKATA registered a perfect 1-2-3 in the 7th for the save.

STEELE CANYON 8, GROSSMONT 2 — If you arrived late, you missed this one after the first four Cougars batters all scored thanks to back-to-back home runs by KYLIE STEAGALL and MOLLY HUTCHISON in Steele Canyon's road victory in Grossmont Hills League play.

In the course of two minutes, leadoff batter TORI YANITOR was hit by a pitch, AMANDA HARTNETT walked, then Steagall pumped a 3-run homer to center field. Moments late, Hutchison, in her return behind the plate at catcher following an injury, also sent a shot to center for a 4-0 cushion, as Steele Canyon scored five times in the frame before the Foothillers received their initial swings Friday (Apr. 27).

Grossmont tried to rally in the 3rd, but Cougars left fielder KAYLIE AZEVEDO ended a bases-loaded threat with a diving catch.

The rest of the scoring came in the 5th inning.

Steele Canyon placed runners on the corners on a Steagall double and a Hutchison single. KALI SCHWARTZ then delivered an RBI single, then JESSICA THOMPSON drove in a pair of an 8-0 cushion.

The Foothillers broke the shutout when AMANDA PORTER and CEL DAVILA (2 RBI) each banged doubles to left field.

Valhalla's Dionna Smith belts a 2-run double in the 6th inning to catch Granite Hills at 3-all. (Photo by James Labshere)

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS by Suzy Lahitte

The winning run was scored by BROOKLYN SCHWEN, who singled and stole second base, moved to third on a BRIANNA TYSELING sacrifice bunt, then home when Budvarson's blooper found a gap in the outfield.

The victory maintains Granite Hills' share of first place with Steele Canyon in the GHL standings, while West Hills fell out of the 3-way tie for the top spot.

Early on, Eagles first baseman NICOLE OBNEY provided all of the ballclub's offense.

In the 1st, following a lead double by KIMMY TRIOLO, MICHELLE MILLER and VICTORIA HATHAWAY were each hit by a pitch to load the bases, then Obney delivered a 2-run single.

Obney finished with a 3-for-3, 3 RBI outing, including a double, while Budvarson and Triolo each registered a pair of basehits.

In th 3rd, Hathaway doubled, KRISTINA LAHITTE singled, then Obney singled home courtesy runner ERICA VASQUEZ.

Valhalla's first run saw an error allow KAYLIE HIPWELL (lead single, stolen base) to score, then DIONNA SMITH blistered a 2-run double to right-center field, scoring KIKI BROWN (walk) and MADISON LABSHERE (safe on error)

Grossmont Valley League
SANTANA 13, MOUNT MIGUEL 0 (5 inn.) – AMBER SCHISLER launched a pair of home runs to give her nine for the season, then pitched three no-hit innings to gain the victory in the Sultans' run-rule decision over the Matadors.

Schisler popped a 3-run shot in the 1st, also scoring ARIEL RASMUSSON and KAYTI GRABLE, then hit a solo shot in the 3rd. In between, TARA GRENNAN also went long for Santana on a 2-run shot to also score ALICIA ZUNIGA in the 2nd.

After Schisler's three innings in the circle, KENDRA KUPER pitched the 4th, then KYLIE BRACE tossed the 5th in Friday (Apr. 27) combined 1-hitter.

For Mount Miguel, DEMETRIA ANDERSON walked in the 3rd to break-up the perfect game bid, then MARLEESA CHAVEZ singled in the 4th to break up the no-hitter..

EL CAPITAN 9, MONTE VISTA 1 – The argument is officially over. Whether one includes Mountain Empire High or not, Vaqueros junior DELANIE GOURLEY became the career strikeout leader for all East County schools – metro area or the back country – after setting down 19 of 21 Monarchs on strikes in Friday's (Apr. 27) GVL triumph.

Her career total now stands at 894 to move into fourth place on the CIFSDS career list. Along with passing Majam, Gourley also passed the deadlock between former Eastern League standout pitchers Amy Miner (Patrick Henry, 1990-93) and Melissa Tillett (Mira Mesa, 2004-07).

Gourley, who tossed a 3-hitter, also registered three basehits and a pair of RBI, while SAMANTHA LOZANO drove in three runs, including a solo homer.

KENZIE GANDY singled in both Lozano and CINDY GONZALES in the 2nd.

Lozano added her homer for a 3-0 lead in the 5th, then singled home KASSIE BATTAGLIA (walk) and C.J. MERRILL In the 5th.

After Monte Vista answered with its lone run in the 6th, El Capitan immediately answered back when BREAN NOBLE and KATIE CARMICHAEL both singled, with a Battaglia single scoring Noble, then Gourley slapping a basehit to send Carmichael and Battaglia home.

For the Monarchs, CHELSEA BALAJADIA singled, then circled the bases when the ball skipped past an outfielder for an error in the 6th. Monte Vista 's other hits were singles by MEGAN SEARS in the 4th and EMILY LOPEZ in the 6th.

West Hills' Katie Byrd is safe at home, despite Grossmont catcher Sarah Nicks showing the ball to the ump after the tag. (Photo by John Horne)

Same play/another angle... Is there a tag? CLICK PHOTOS FOR ENLARGEMENT

And yet another view of the same play! (Photo by Dave Reed)

Depth provides another West Hills win By Nick Pellegrino © East County Sports.com SANTEE (4-26-12) — With all the attention directed toward West Hills High's NOELLE JOHNSON and CORTNEY HORNE, the middle of the Wolf Pack batting order made their presence felt in a battle with first-place Grossmont for the Grossmont Hills League lead. Johnson and Horne were limited to one hit each Wednesday (Apr. 25), but when you throw in a walk and a pair of errors, the pair took on the rare roll of table-setters. So instead of driving in the run, it was KATIE BYRD and ARIANNA QUINTANILLA who did, combining for six RBI in a 8-1 decision over the visiting Foothillers. "I don't want to say anything bad about her because she's a friend of mine," said Byrd. "But CEL (DAVILA, the Grossmont pitcher), left a couple of balls right down the middle.” The result was a 2-run single by Byrd, while Quintanilla equaled her best career outing with four RBI covered over three hits to lift West Hills past Grossmont into first place by a half game. "We don't mind who gets notices because we all are part of how well we do," added Byrd, the second baseman, who went 3-for-4 and scored twice on Quintanilla hits. After Johnson (double) scored on an error on a ball hit by Byrd in the 1st, West Hills made it 3-0 when Quintanilla doubled in Horne and Byrd in the 3rd. The hits were reversed in the 5th with Byrd doubling into the right-field corner and scoring on a basehit by the Wolf Pack shortstop. Grossmont then posted a pair of errors and two other misplays in the 6th, when the Pack scored four times (three unearned) to put away the victory. The inning started with consecutive doubles by left fielder EMILY SPENCER and right fielder KAYCEE AQUININGOC, who also had a pair of sacrifice bunts. The Hillers’ lone run came on an error in the 4th, spoiling the shutout bid by Johnson. SARAH NICKS accepted a lead walk, moving to second base on a wild pitch. HAYLEY KASDEN followed with a basehit, but when the ball was bobbled in the outfield, Nicks took an extra base to trim the deficit to 3-1. Byrd and Quintanilla finished with three hits each, while Spencer went 2-for-2 with a walk. For Grossmont, center fielder AMANDA PORTER has two basehits, including a scratch single in the 7th when the Hillers loaded the bases, but Johnson escaped the jam with a game-ending strikeout.

West Hills pitcher Noelle Johnson (Photo by Dave Reed)

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (4-26-12) — It's a proven mathematical statistic: score first, and you'll probably win almost any game in almost any sport.

But don't tell that to four Grossmont Conference schools which lit the scoreboard first, only to fall in Wednesday's (Apr. 25) action across East County.

SANTANA 2, EL CAPITAN 1 — In a battle for first place in the Grossmont Valley League, the upset-minded Vaqueros took advantage of an error to score in the 1st inning. However, the third-ranked Sultans accepted an unearned run in the 6th to maintain their long winning streak in league play.

Junior shortstop ARIEL RASMUSSON was instrumental in both Santana runs after reaching on infield singles in the 2nd and 6th innings, then stealing two bases each time.

In the 2nd, Rasmusson reached third base on a safety squeeze by AMBER SCHISLER. The sacrifice bunt tied the game, with Schisler safe at first on an error.

On the winning, when Rasmusson stole third base, the throw sailed into left field to allow to easily score.

El Capitan's run saw KASSIE BATTAGLIA accept a one-out walk, then took two bases on a basehit by C.J. MERRILL. But when the throw from the outfield went wide of third base, Battaglia accept the gift run.

Schisler gained the pitching victory, allowing just three hits in her six innings of work. KENDRA KUPE pitched the 4th inning before Schisler returned to the circle. Meanwhile, Vaqueros pitcher DELANIE GOURLEY yielded just two basehits with 13 strikeouts, but took the setback. Battaglia and Gourley also posted singles for El Capitan.

Granite Hills' Tarin Marks hustles back to first base while Helix' Desirae Bordine waits for the ball to arrive. (Photo by Suzy Lahitte) ADDITIONAL PHOTOS HERE

GRANITE HILLS 8, HELIX 7 – For the third straight Grossmont Hills League ballgame, the struggling Highlanders again failed to hold onto a 7th-inning lead after the Eagles roared back by posting four runs. One play decided the outcome on this one after MICHELLE MILLER was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded to force home BRIANNA TYSELING to trim the deficit to 7-5.

VICTORIA HATHAWAY followed with a line single to left field, as ALISSA BUDVARSON and KIMMY TRIOLO scored to tie it. However, when Miller scooted to third base, the ball to get her sailed into left field to allow Miller to ease home with the walk-off run. Triolo finished with a pair of doubles and three RBI while Miller collected two hits for Granite Hills.

For Helix, KEANA NAKATA stroked a 3-run homer, when the Scotties scored four times in the 2nd to post a 5-0 lead. Kanata finished with two hits, along with teammates PRECIOUS SEETIA-NOA, SAM CUNNINGHAM and SYDNI TOILOLO.

Valhalla first baseman Kiki Brown with her second home run on the day against Steele Canyon. (Photo by James Labshere)

STEELE CANYON 12, VALHALLA 4 – The visiting Norsemen scored twice in the 1st inning, eventually mounting a 3-0 lead before the Cougars tallied 11 times over their final pair of trips to the plate to regain a share of first place in the Grossmont Hills League.

KALI SCHWARTZ continued her torrid hitting stretch, registering three more hits in collecting two RBI, raising her season average to .475. However, KYLIE STEAGALL continues to pace all Cougars hitters at an even .500 after going 3-for-4 with two RBI, including a run-scoring double in the 5th, then scoring the go-ahead run on a Schwartz double during a 6-run rally to mount a 7-3 advantage.

For Valhalla, first baseman KIKI BROWN belted a pair of home runs, collecting three RBI with a 2-run shot to left field to also score DANIELLE UY (lead walk) in the 1st, then a solo drive to center field in the 3rd. Brown also made a bid for another extra-base hit in the 7th, but was robbed on a diving catch by Steele Canyon right fielder RACHEL BEASLEY for the game's final out.

The other Norsemen run came in the 6th when freshman KATIE SCHMIDT sliced a triple down the left-field line, bringing home DIONNA SMITH (walk).

EL CAJON VALLEY 12, MOUNT MIGUEL 3 – The visiting Matadors registered three early runs – one each over the opening three innings – yet eventually fell to the Braves in Grossmont Valley League action Wednesday (Apr. 25).

BLIME MACIAS registered an RBI single in the 1st, bringing home CATHERINE QUIJADA, who opened the ballgame with a basehit, then stole a base.

An inning later, Mount Miguel loaded the bases as YESSICA BECERRA reached on an error, DEMETRIA ANDERSON walked, then Quijada singled. NICOLE VARGAS followed with another single to score Becerra, but the inning ended when Anderson tried to score but was thrown out at the plate.

The other run saw MARLESSA CHAVEZ double, followed by another RBI single by Blime.

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
TIERRASANTA (4-25-12) — With the first round of the Eastern League schedule coming to a conclusion Tuesday (Apr. 23), the surprising Serra Conquistadors were poised to move into sole possession of second place with a victory.

However, Patrick Henry senior pitcher GRACE HERNANDEZ thought otherwise, spinning a 2-hit shutout in the visiting Patriots' 10-0 run-rule triumph over the Lady Q-Dawgs.

"After what was probably our poorest effort of the season on Monday (a 9-0 setback to third-ranked Santana) – and I mean by players and the coaching staff – it was great to show some character and bounce right back with one of our best efforts of the season," said Patrick Henry coach DON SHAFFER.

The Patriots (12-8 overall, 4-1 league) posted runs in all five innings, never allowing the Q's (1-07, 3-2 EL) any room to maneuver.

At the center of the offense was freshman MEGHAN FISHER, who has quickly established herself at the top of the Patrick Henry batting order.

"We've been going with quite a few different combinations in our line-up this season," the coach noted. "But with the way Meghan and MONTANA POTTS have been playing, we might just go with today's line-up for the rest of the season."

Fisher led the way by batting 2-for-3 with a walk, then stealing three bases and scoring three times to jump-start the offense. Then Potts delivered the decisive blow, blasting a 3-run double to the deep gap in left-center field to mount a 4-0 advantage.

Fisher started the contest with a double, scoring on a two-out error on a ball hit by SIERRA ALTMEYER. An inning later, KELLY JERTBERG reached on an error, JENNIFER SCHUFF and Fisher reached with basehits, then all three scored on Potts' pop.

Jertberg later added an RBI single in the 3rd to push the game out of Serra's reach.

Patrick Henry, following a slow start, has now captured 12 of its last 16 outings, leaping high among the honorable mention in this week's U-T San Diego rankings.

MIRA MESA 12, MORSE 0 (5 inn.) – With significant losses by Torrey Pines, West Hills and Poway last week, the Marauders welcomed their inclusion at No. 2 in the U-T San Diego rankings by trouncing the host Tigers in Tuesday's (Apr. 24) Eastern League contest.

ALICIA GARCIA and LANI VANTA combined to toss a 1-hit shutout, as Morse opened the game with a leadoff bunt single by Allana Hille in the 1st. Garcia went on to toss three innings without allowing a basehit, while Vanta retired all six Tigers she faced to gain a save.

Meanwhile, after all the hoopla on Monday when Santana's KAYTI GRABLE jumped into 10th place on the CIFSDS career home run list, the Marauders' KATIYANA MAUGA bumped her back into 11th.

Mauga, the University of Arizona bound shortstop, pumped her 9th homer of the season, giving her a career total of 32. She is now tied for third all-time with Kaelin Sprawls (2008-11) of Palo Verde Valley in Blythe.

The section record is 41 by Oceanside 's Trina Harrison (2004-08).

Mauga went 3-for-4 against Morse, including a 2-run shot to centerfield in the 3rd to mount an 11-0 cushion. Earlier, Mira Mesa scored seven times in the 2nd for an 8-0 lead.

Vanta, who started at third base, stroked a pair of triples for the Marauders, including one that was good for a pair of RBI in the 2nd. Meanwhile, QUIRISA MAUGA batted a perfect 4-for-4, including a pair of run-scoring singles.

SCRIPPS RANCH 7, CHRISTIAN 1 – Falcons pitcher TAYLOR CURRAN, the lone senior on the team roster, tossed five no-hit innings to give Scripps Ranch the Eastern League victory over the visiting Patriots on Tuesday (Apr. 24).

Christian center fielder TAYLOR MILLER prevented her team from losing by run-rule with a running, back-hand grab in the left-center field gap. The catch prevented all three Scripps Ranch baserunners from scoring, as the play only went for a sacrifice fly in the 4th inning.

The Patriots, facing a relief pitcher in the 6th, pushed across their only run when second baseman MELANIE STARK reached on a bunt single for the team's first hit. She then stole second base, then came home when the hot grounder by shortstop ALISSA HARRIS found its way into center for a two-out, RBI single.

Hillers shortstop Aubrie May foils the steal attempt of Helix' Madeline Heasmen. May would later smack a walk-off, 2-run homer in Grossmont's 5-4 triumph. (Photo by Steve Crisci)

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (4-24-12) — Grossmont High senior AUBRIE MAY delivered a 2-run, walk-off home run in the bottom of the 7th inning Monday (Apr. 23), propelling the Foothillers past arch-rival Helix, 5-4, in a Grossmont Hills League make-up game.

The victory snapped a 4-way deadlock among four ballclubs, giving the Hillers (13-8 overall, 3-1 GHL) a temporary half-game lead until the other rain-outs are played.

Following a one-out single to CEL DAVILA, May sent a 3-2 pitch out over the left-center field fence.

"It's 3-and-2 on Aubrie, but you have SARAH NICKS on deck and she's red-hot, too," said Hillers coach JERRY LERUD. "You got to pitch to somebody."

The Davila-May combination had a hand in each rally.

In the 1st, both singled, with AMANDA KASDEN sending a single to right for a 1-0 lead.

Helix answered by scoring twice in the 2nd and 6th innings, but Grossmont fought back.

In the 6th, following Davila's second of thee basehit on the afternoon, May walked, then on a stolen base attempt, an erro allowed Davila to score. Designated hitter KATHERINE TREJO followed with a basehit to bring home May, trimming the deficit to 4-3.

"Our top four or five hitters are just on right now," added Lerud. "We're having fun putting which where in the batting orfer."

Meanwhile, Helix (7-12, 0-4 GHL) is staying close against better competition, but can't seem to get over the hump for a breakthrough victory.

"It was a real tough loss for us today, even though the girls played really hard," said Scotties coach EMILY KOWALSKI. "It just goes to show how much progress we are making and how positive things will be going into next season."

"We've been on the wrong end of several tough losses lately, yet the girls are staying positive and we've still got a championship to play for this weekend."

Helix qualified for the championship semifinals of the Warhawk-Friar Classic, meeting tournament host Madison in Saturday's (Apr. 28) second semifinal at 11 a.m.

Fallbrook meets Del Norte in the 9 a.m. opener, with the losers meeting at 1:30 p.m. for third place, followed by the championship game.

The Highlanders grabbed the early lead when DESIRAE BORDINE stroked an RBI double in the 2nd. Bordine batted 2-for-4 on the afternoon.

In addition, CLARISSA SMITH and BRAY MONTERROSA each went 2-for-3, including RBI singled in the 6trh to give Helix a 4-1 cushion.

STEELE CANYON 5, UNIVERSITY CITY 2 — KALI SCHWARTZ continued her torrid hitting pace, going 3-for-3 to give her 9 hits in her last 11 at-bats over the past four outings, lifting the Cougars past the visiting Centurions in the ballclubs' annual non-league contest.

The win ended a 3-game losing streak to University City, but not without some anxious moments Monday (Apr. 23), as the Cents scored once in the 7th and brought the potential game-tying run to the plate before Steele Canyon registered the final two outs.

Steele Canyon mounted a 5-0 lead, scoring four times on five hits in the 2nd.

MOLLY HUTCHISON lead off with a lead single, then advanced on a wild pitch. Schwartz followed with her first hit, with Hutchison scoring moments later on a passed ball.

JESSICA THOMSPON also singled to again place runners on the corners, then RACHEL BEASLEY lined an RBI single to right. AMANDA HARTNETT lifted a sacrifice fly to make it 3-0, then TORU YANITOR doubled to left to bring home Beasley.

Schwartz also lined a single to left in the 3rd, moving KYLIE STEAGALL (double) to third. But when the defender booted the ball, Steagall waltzed in with the team's fifth run.

© East County Sports.com
SAN CARLOS (4-22-12) — One good start and one good ending was enough to lift Patrick Henry High to a doubleheader sweep of visiting Helix, 5-1 and 5-2, in Saturday's (Apr. 21) non-league action. The games were a rain make-up from earlier in the month.

In the opener, the Patriots mounted a 5-0 lead through two innings, then rode the arm of winning pitcher GRACE HERNANDEZ. However, in game two, Patrick Henry needed three runs in the 7th to snap a 2-2 tie to gain the sweep.

"Everyone on the team is contributing right now," said Patriots coach DON SHAFFER, "which is good because we have a really big week coming up."

The agenda includes ballgames with several teams in the county rankings, including No. 6 Santana, plus rising ballclubs from Serra and Scripps Ranch.

Game one saw Henry score twice in the 1st when a ball hit by KORTNIE WILLIAMS was misplayed, allowing both ALLY FAILLACE and Hernandez (both singles) to come home.

An inning later, the team's remaining run were put in the book. BAILEY HAWK was hit by a pitch, then skated to second on a JENNIFER SCHUFF basehit. MONTANA POTTS singled home Hawk for a 3-0 lead, Faillace bunted the remaining runners into scoring position, then Hernandez (ground out) and SIERRA ALTMEYER (single) collected RBI.

Meanwhile, Hernandez struck out six in tossing a 6-hitter. The lone run came unearned in the 6th when a two-out error was cashed in on a KEANA NAKATA basehit.

In the nightcap, tied at 2-2 entering the 7th, Patrick Henry again placed two runners in scoring position after Potts singled, Faillace was safe on an error on her sacrifice bunt, with both advancing on a passed ball.

Hernandez then snapped the tied contest with a sacrifice fly to score Potts, Altmeyer singled in Faillace, then following a MEGHAN FISHER bunt single, a sacrifice fly by RYLIE RUCKLE – the Pats' third sacrifice of the inning – send home the insurance run.

Early on, Faillace stroked a 2-run single to left in the 3rd, bringing home Schuff and Potts (both singled). But the rally was sandwiched by single runs by Helix in the 2nd and 3rd innings.

MARISSA HAMPTON scored the first run after her basehit, a pair of sacrifice bunts, then a two-out single to right by No. 9 batter TINA NUNEZ.

An inning later, PRECIOUS SEETIA-NOA doubled home CHANELLE WARD, then tried to score herself after an error. However, Patriots centerfielder SYDNEY JAMES threw her out at the plate.

Afterward, Faillace, the Patrick Henry pitcher, allowed just one basehit over her final 4 1/3 innings to get the win. She struck out four and allowed just five singles.

Grossmont's Sarah Nicks (10) gets mobbed following her second home run against Valhalla. (Photo by Steve Crisci)

Madison Labshere (23) slides to score a run for Valhalla. (Photo by James Labshere)

Grossmont's Amanda Porter places a successful sacrifice bunt. (Photo by Steve Crisci)

West Hills baserunner Kaycee Aquiningoc beats the throw home against Granite Hills. (Photo by Shuree Horne)

Hustling to first base is Alissa Budvarson of Granite Hills, as her bunt is chased in the background by West Hills catcher Cortney Horne. Budvarson was safe. (Photo by Suzy Lahitte) ADDITIONAL PHOTOS HERE

Hutchison initial homer went to left field, also scoring AMANDA HARTNETT and KYLIE STEAGALL, then she went deep to center field to again score Steagll (leadoff walk). Hutcjison was walked on her other three plate appearances, part of 10 walks issued by Helix.

KALI SCHWARTZ batted 2-for-2 with a walk, RACHEL BEASLEY posted a pair of hits including a duuble, while No. 9 hitter KAYLIE AZEVEDO registered a pair of RBI singles.

Beasley would have collected a third hit, but was robbed on a diving grab by Scotties left fielder CHANELLE WARD in the 4th.

For the Highlanders, they battled back from a 7-run deficit to move within 8-5, then twice loaded the bases with no one out, yet failed to score in the late going.

SYDNI TIOLOLO batted 3-for-4, including a leadoff home run in the 2nd, while DESIRAE BORDINE registered a 2-run single and walked twice.

Elsewhere on Friday (Apr. 20), Santana whipped Monte Vista, 19-3, to remain on top of the GVL standings, while Mount Miguel dropped a 6-0 non-league decision at Chula Vista.

More on these games when the ECS.com computer regains full consciousness.

Granite Hills catcher Kristina Lahitte fires to second base against West Hills. Photo by Suzy Lahitte / ADDITIONAL PHOTOS HERE

Left: Patrick Henry second base Sierra Altmeyer fires to first base for the out. Right: Patriots first baseman Ally Faillace (7) makes the grab of a Grace Hernandez (18) throw to retire Mira Mesa batter Marissa Rillo. The Marauders won, 2-0, on an Alicia Garcia 4-hit shutout. (Photos by Karen Faillace)

© East County Sports.com
SAN CARLOS (4-20-12) — When it comes to clutch situations, just hand Mira Mesa High senior TANI LEASAU a bat.

The Cal State San Marcos bound catcher drove in both runs with line singles in the 3rd and 5th innings, allowing the Marauders to slip past host Patrick Henry, 2-0, in Thursday's (Apr.19) battle of Eastern League co-leaders.

Leasau, who lined out to the pitcher to start an inning-ending double play in the 1st, continues to hit the ball hard, driving in both of the MAUGA sisters in the victory.

In the 3rd, QUIRISA MAUGA lined a basehit to center, then LANI VANTA sent a drive over the left-fielder's head, but it too went for a single when the runner had to play halfway since the line was catchable.

Leasau then made it three straight Mira Mesa hits with a shot up the middle.

MERCEDES HUMPHREY followed with a fourth consecutive Marauders single, but Patrick Henry right fielder SYDNEY JAMES fired a strike to catcher MADDY BARRAZA to nail Vanta at the plate.

Two innings later, KATIYANA MAUGA went to the opposite field with a double to right-center field. She scored on another Leasau basehit.

Meanwhile, freshman ALICIA GARCIA tossed a 4-hit shutout at Patrick Henry. She struck out three.

For the Patriots, ALLY FAILLACE went 1-for-2 with a bunt single, a walk and a sacrifice bunt.

CHRISTIAN 10, MORSE 1 – The Patriots quickly avenged an early-season tournament loss to the Tigers, scoring four times in the 1st inning to claim Thursday's (Apr 19) Eastern League ballgame at Dawson Field.

GABY GRABOWSKI and MELANIE STARK each struck out two batters in the combined 5-hitter to lift Christian past Morse in the standings.

Morse played giveaway early, allowing Stark and ALYSSA HARRIS to both reach by error in the Pats' first trip to the plate, with both coming home on a 2-run double by MARY GRABOWSKI. Later in the inning, KAYLA KRUELL stroked an RBI double, then she scored following a stolen base and a wild pitch.

Christian later posted a pair of runs in the 2nd, 4th and 5th innings in the rout, mostly thanks to the top of the batting order.

In the 2nd, Harris doubled home Stark (walk), then took third base on the throw home. Harris later scored on a Mary Grabowski sacrifice fly.

Kruell added the last of three singles by Christian in the 4th, scoring both Stark and Harris. The 5th saw No. 9 hitter KELLY ROBISON get hit by a pitch, then the top three hitters – Stark, Harris and Mary Grabowski – each singled, the last two good for runs.

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
RANCHO SAN DIEGO (4-19-12) — Free-falling out of the county rankings and destined to become anything but a factor in the Grossmont Hills League pennant chase, the Steele Canyon Cougars reversed everything with one big rally.

KALI SCHWARTZ and JESSICA THOMPSON each registered run-scoring singles in the bottom of the 6th inning Wednesday (Apr. 18), powering Steele Canyon past top-ranked West Hills, 3-2. The basehits were part of four collected by the Cougars in the inning, helping snap a 4-game losing streak.

"It was definitely the most solid game we've played all season," said Cougars coach JULIE NEUBAUER. "After losing four in-a-row, it feels nice to change directions."

The drought by the Cougars looked like it would be extended after the Wolf Pack scored twice in the 6th to claim a 2-1 advantage.

KATIE BYRD singled through the left side to bring home JENNY SHEPARD, the courtesy runner for pitcher NOELLE JOHNSON (safe on error), to tie the ballgame.

ADRIANNA QUINTANILLA was hit by a pitch to load the bases, then a squeeze bunt by KAYLA ARAUJO left Steele Canyon with no play except to first base as JANELLE HIPOLITO, the courtesy runner for catcher CORTNEY HORNE (double), scored to take the lead.

However, the Cougars bounced right back when AMANDA HARTNETT and GRACE KRAMER opened the home-half of the frame with basehits. Hartnett lined a basehit to right field, while Kramer reached via the bunt, as Hartnett took a page out of the West Hills playbook and took two bases to reach third.

Schwartz, who batted 2-for-3 on the afternoon, made it three straight hits with a hard roller up the middle to tie the ballgame. West Hills retired the next two batters, but Thompson, who struck out on her two previous at-bats, rebounded by slapping a roller to deep shortstop, beating the throw while the go-ahead run came in.

Conversely, Steele Canyon shortstop ALYSSA MASCARI, who scored the game's first run on a KYLIE STEAGALL basehit in the 3rd, came back on defense in the very next inning to turn an inning-ending double play. Mascari flagged a ball ticketed for center field, tapping the bag at second then firing to Schwartz at first.

Mascari also threw out runners from the hole to end West Hills rallies in the 1st and 6th innings.

"It seems like in all of our losses, we had one bad inning," noted Neubauer. "But to bounce right back after giving up the lead is a credit to our young ladies. It showed we're able to play like we're capable of."

Granite Hills' Nicole Obney strokes a 2-run homer to open the scoring to defeat Grossmont, 3-2 (Photo by Suzy Lahitte) ADDITIONAL PHOTOS HERE

Granite Hills' Brooklyn Schwen (left) beat the throw home to Grossmont catcher Sarah Nicks. The run was the decider in a 3-2 win over the Foothillers. (Photo by Suzy Lahitte) ADDITIONAL PHOTOS HERE

GRANITE HILLS 3, GROSSMONT 2 — The Eagles displayed some early power, highlighted by a 2-run homer from senior NICOLE OBNEY, to grab undisputed possession of first place in the Grossmont Hills League after just two contests.

KRISTINA LAHITTE was in the middle of both rallies by Granite Hills.

In the 2nd inning, Lahitte singled, then Obney pulled a shot over the barrier in right-center field for a quick 2-0 advantage.

An inning later, VICTORIA HATHAWAY drew a walk, with courtesy runner BROOKLYN SCHWEN circling the diamond on a Lahitte double to right-center to make it a 3-0 cushion.

Eagles center fielder TARIN MARKS matched Lahitte with a 2-for-3 outing at the plate. Both of Marks' hits went for doubles.

Granite Hills (9-7 overall) is the only GHL ballclub at 2-0, while four of the remaining five ballclubs stand at 1-1 through the opening week of league play. Although the Eagles have shared numerous league titles, they have never captured an outright crown since at least 1984 (the earliest season in the ECS.com archives).

You make the call!

Racing to haul in this line drive is Grossmont outfielder Kira Elliott.... but did she make the catch? CLICK the photo to find out. (Photos by Steve Crisci)

Valhalla second baseman Analise Garcia (top); shortstop Madison Labshere (Photo by James Labshere)

VALHALLA 5, HELIX 1 — Trailing 1-0, the Norsemen scored twice in the 3rd, 4th and 6th innings to collect their initial Grossmont Hills League victory of the season as pitcher ASHLEY MADARA tossed a 2-htter at the visiting Highlanders at Leto Field.

Madara faced just one batter over the minimum despite just two strikeouts, yet getting Helix batters out on an array of 13 ground balls for outs. Her lone mistake was a solo homer to center field by Scotties catcher DESIRAE BORDINE in the 3rd.

The only other baserunner off Madara saw Helix shortstop CHANELLE WARD open the fourth with a basehit off the glove of third baseman DANIELLE UY. However, Ward was doubled-up when PRECIOUS SEETIA-NOA sent a line drive directly to right field on a hit-and-run, with the defender tossing the ball to second base before the baserunner could retreat.

Valhalla (11-9 overall) saw MADISON LABSHERE post a pair of doubles good for three RBI in a 3-for-4 outing at the plate. KIKI BROWN walked four times (scoring once), while freshman KATIE SCHMIDT scored three times.

Grossmont Valley League
EL CAPITAN 11, MOUNT MIGUEL 1 (5 inn.) — Vaqueros KATIE CARMICHAEL allowed just one run, as host El Capitan scored five times in the 1st, then four more in the 5th to down the visiting Matadors.

SAM LOZANO provided the walk-off game-winner with a 2-run double to left-center field.

Mount Miguel countered with its lone run in the 2nd.

CATHERINE QUIJADA stroked a leadoff single, advancing on a walk to YESSICA BECERRA, then an RBI double by DEJANEY POPE. Quijada also put down a sacrifice bunt to move a pair of runners into scoring position in the 3rd.

The loss snapped the Matadors' 2-game winning streak, the program's longest since a 5-game stretch ended on Apr. 8, 2009 (included wins over San Pasqual, Eastlake and eventual SDCIF champion Mt. Carmel ).

EL CAJON VALLEY 4, MONTE VISTA 3 — In a possible look-ahead situation for the Monarchs, the Braves rallied for three runs in the bottom of the 6th inning to stun the visitors. And because of numerous rain-outs over the past week, ECVHS (2-6 overall) actually shares first place with Santana and El Capitan.

Monte Vista (5-8 overall, 0-1 GVL) jumped from the gate quickly, taking a 1-0 lead on an RBI double by freshman SIERRA GOLDHAGEN in the 1st inning.

In the 3rd, the Monarchs received run-scoring singles from EMMA DeMARS and MEGAN SEARS.

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (4-18-12) — With everyone off the injured list and playing with confidence at their regular positions on defense, it came as no surprise when Christian High played its best ballgame of the season.

However, despite solid pitching from MELANIE STARK and GABY GRABOWSKI, visiting Patrick Henry, the co-leaders in the Eastern League, were able to survive to take Tuesday's (Apr. 17) 2-1 decision at Dawson Field.

Both teams collected four hits, but the Patriots put three of them together in the 4th, the inning when both teams scored their runs.

ALLY FAILLACE blooped a basehit over the head of the second baseman to leadoff the frame, then was sacrificed to second on a GRACE HERNANDEZ bunt.

SIERRA ALTMEYER followed with an RBI single, taking second base on the throw home. MONTANA POTTS then followed with her own run-scoring single on a hot roller to the right side.

Christian answered right back when MARY GRABOWSKI blasted the second of her two doubles for the contest. Unlike her 1st-inning shot which landed inside the line in deep right field, her second liner landed inside the line in left, then bounced toward the swing sets beyond the barrier.

KAYLE KRUELL bunted the runner to third base, then Patrick Henry got a break when a line drive by catcher ANAYA TOBIASON found the glove of Faillace at first base.

However, Gaby Grabowski beat out a slow roller to shortstop to score her sister – Christian's version of the "bro-B-I" as coined by Alpine resident MARK GRANT, the San Diego Padres television color announcer.

Both Grabowskis went 2-for-3 at the plate, while Hernandez shut down the rest of the line-up, struck out five and recorded 13 other outs on ground balls.

MIRA MESA 11, SERRA 4 — The Marauders received an early wake-up call when the visiting Conquistadors tallied twice in their opening trip to the plate. However, Mira Mesa answered with its own run in the 1st, then five more markers in the 2nd to remain perfect in Eastern League play.

ALICIA GARCIA collected the pitching victory in relief, tossing four shutout innings on just one hit after Serra scored four times over the first three innings.

Meanwhile, KATIYANA MAUGA registered a big day on offense Tuesday (Apr. 17), driving in five runs, featuring a 3-run homer to center field to highlight the 2nd-inning outburst. She also stroked an RBI single in the 1st to start the comeback, then capped a 4-run rally in the 6th with a run-scoring double.

Mauga now had eight home runs this season.

QUIRISA MAUGA kept up with her older sister by going 3-for-3, including a triple and a run scored in the 1st

Safe at second base with a double is Santana's Alicia Zuniga (27), despite the tag attempt by Granite Hills' Katy Crews. Santana won, 5-3. (Photo by Suzy Lahitte) ADDITIONAL PHOTOS HERE

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (4-17-12) — The Santana Sultans are determined to prove they are East County's top ballclub, no matter what it takes.

Thus, simply winning Monday's (Apr. 16) Grossmont Conference Tournament rain make-up game wasn't enough, the Sultans also wanted to eliminate opposing Granite Hills from a possible rematch in the tournament final. So when the hosts not only took the lead on the Eagles, they added on to eliminate any tie-breaker advantage to finish pool play as the lone unbeaten ballclub following a 5-3 decision.

Santana long ago knew it would host the GCT finale, but the opponent was never determined. However, after scoring its five runs, Granite Hills slipped into second place in its pool (based on runs allowed), meaning top-ranked West Hills will gain an opportunity to avenge one of its two losses on the season.

The GCT finale is slated for Mon., May 7, starting at 4 p.m., in a re-match of the 2010 title contest captured by the Wolf Pack.

After Granite Hills opened the scoring on an RBI single by FELICIA VINCENT to drive in ERICA VASQUEZ in the 2nd, Santana scored twice in the 2nd and 3rd innings to take the lead for keeps.

The first rally was centered around sophomore third baseman ASHLEE 'Oh-O' GROOVER, who doubled home KENDRA KUPER, (single) with a liner over the left-fielder's head. The go-ahead run was scored on a basehit by ARIEL RASMUSSON.

In the 3rd with the bases loaded, TAYLOR BARRY raced toward the plate on an infield grounder, but was blocked at the plate by Eagles catcher KRISTINA LAHITTE. But when the ball skipped to the backstop, Barry crawled about three paces on her hands and knees to score.

ALICIA ZUNIGA then followed with an RBI single to left to bring in TARA GRENNAN for a 4-1 advantage. Grennan would also score in the 5th when she stole third base, then walked in when the throw went down the line when the defender misplayed the ball while looking directly into the sun.

In the 7th, Granite Hills made things interesting even after Santana center fielder CATHRYN PETTY nailed a runner at the plate on a strong throw to catcher KAYTI GRABLE, who was lightly run over by the baserunner.

The Eagles' KIMMY TRIOLO followed with a run-scoring single to bring in MICHELLE MILLER (single), with ALISSA BUDVARSON (single) later scoring on a wild pitch.

So Santana re-entered starting pitcher AMBER SCHISLER, who escaped from a bases loaded situation with a ground ball to shortstop.

EL CAPITAN 5, STEELE CANYON 0 – This is the exact situation which may allow the Vaqueros to be dangerous in the playoffs – don't let the opponent hit the ball.

On Monday (Apr. 16), El Capitan pitcher DELANIE GOURLEY moved within a whisker of the East County career strikeout record, registering 14 Ks in throwing a 1-hit shutout of the visiting Cougars.

Gourley, who already holds the Grossmont Conference career mark for strikeouts, is one shy of the mark set by former Christian High standout SARAH FAWSON, who set the mark at 850 from 1990-93 before moving to become the first-ever Player of the Year in National Pro Fastpitch for the old Orlando Wahoos.

Kelly Majam of Mountain Empire recorded 886 Ks from 2005-08.

Gourley carried a no-hitter into the 6th inning, when GRACE KRAMER registered the lone basehit for the Cougars, who have now dropped four straight ballgames after once being ranked as high as third in the U-T San Diego rankings.

El Capitan erupted for all five of its runs in the 2nd, highlighted by a 2-run single by Gourley, bringing home KENZIE GANDY and C.J. MERRILL coming home.

BREAN NOBLE opened the inning with a double, then Gandy and Merrill singled. Gourley drove in two, followed by a walk to KASSIE BATTAGLIA. Catcher CINDY GONZALES singled in Gourley, then 'K-Bat" came home on a wild pitch.

Grossmont shortstop Aubrie May (left) accepts the throw from catcher Sarah Nicks (not shown) to nail Eastlake's Jenelle Ladrido on her attempt to steal second base. (Photo by Steve Crisci)

GROSSMONT 5, EASTLAKE 1 – The Foothillers' Cel Davila registered two of the five doubles pounded by Grossmont to ease past the visiting Titans in Monday's (Apr. 16) non-league contest.

Consecutive doubles by AUBRIE MAY and Davila made it 1-0 in the 1st, but Eastlake immediately tied the ballgame. So in the 2nd, KAYLA APPENZELLER stroked a leadoff double, coming home on a basehit by KARA ELLIOTT.

Grossmont broke the game open with three runs with just one stroke of the bat in the 5th when catcher SARAH NICKS cleared the bases with – you guessed it – another double.

ANEVAY PEREZ collected the pitching victory on a 4-hitter. The run allowed was unearned.

LadySara Federico slugs the first of her two grand slam home runs in Valhalla's 21-1 run-rule triumph over host San Diego High School. (Photo by James Labshere)

Federico, the catcher, was hit by a pitch in the 1st, went deep in the 2nd and 3rd, then was walked in the 4th and 5th, as the Norsemen collected 20 hits in scoring in every inning. Federico scored three times.

Meanwhile, shortstop MADISON LABSHERE went 3-for-4 with a pair of doubles and a walk, good for an RBI while scoring four times. In addition, KYRA AYALA, BROOKE HAYES, SOFIA MONTES, KAYLIE HIPWELL and DANIELLE UY all had multiple hit games.

The win advanced the Norsemen (11-10) over the .500 plateau. San Diego fell to 3-11.

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
SCRIPPS RANCH (4-13-12) — Realizing that Scripps Ranch lost against a riseball pitcher earlier in the week, Mira Mesa High coach BRAD GRIFFITH elected to change things up and give the Falcons a different look, sending curveball specialist ALICIA GARCIA to the circle instead of senior LANI VANTA.

Watching to see how far Garcia would last, Griffith was going to leave the freshman in the game until she got into trouble. But she never did.

Looking more like Vanta than a typical first-year performer, Garcia struck out 11 batters en route to her first career no-hitter, leading the 4th-ranked Marauders to a 4-0 road victory against their Miramar Road rivals in Thursday's (Apr. 12) featured Eastern League ballgame.

The triumph keeps Mira Mesa (16-5-1) in a three-way tie for first place with Serra and Patrick Henry at 2-0 following the opening week of league competition.

"I mostly throw my curves in and out, and I hit my spots," said Garcia. "And my catcher really helps me out."

Garcia dominated from her opening pitch. After registering the initial out on a pop-up, seven of the next eight outs were registered on strikes.

"Now that I get to share games with Lani, it's really helped my confidence to know I can go out there and do well."

For the contest, Garcia walked just three batters to hand Scripps Ranch (8-7, 0-2 EL) its second shutout setback by a 4-0 count of the week. Patrick Henry's GRACE HERNANDEZ also turned in the feat on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, University of Arizona bound slugger KATIYANA MAUGA recorded her 7th home run of the season. Utilizing a sweet, short swing, Mauga blasted the ball well over the barrier in left-center field for a 2-run shot in the 5th, giving Mira Mesa a 3-0 advantage.

"It was right down the middle," said Mauga, who also drove in younger sister QUIRISA MAUGA (walk) with her deep drive. "And then Alicia showed she's a really good pitcher. It just shows that anybody can come up and show-up people."

The Mauga sisters also set up the team's opening run in the 1st. They registered a run of three consecutive basehits, capped by an RBI single by TANI LEASAU to open the scoring.

The final run saw AMBER CORDERO short-hop the fence in right-center field for a double to bring home MERCEDES HUMPHREY in the 7th.

PATRICK HENRY 11, MORSE 0 (5 inn.) – For Patriots senior NICOLE "Co-Co" VAUGHN, the season started as the team manager.

"All she does is take B.P. and does some fielding drills," Patrick Henry coach DON SHAFFER noted. ""But we always kept her on the roster because everyone on the team just loves her."

On Thursday (Apr. 12), Shaffer offered Vaughn an opportunity to play against the last-place Tigers – and the veteran skipper hit the jackpot.

In her first plate appearance, Vaughn not only shocked her teammates by lining a drive to right field, the ball eluded the diving attempt by the Morse defender. As the ball rolled to the wall, Vaughn circled the bases for an inside-the-park, 4th-inning home run to spark the run-rule decision.

The victory keeps Patrick Henry (8-6 overall) in a tie for the top spot in the Eastern League.

"Co-Co always tries so hard, so we also kept her on the roster as an emergency runner," added the coach. "Then she drilled a line drive – it was pretty exciting."

GRACE HERNANDEZ paced the offense by going 3-for-3, while ALLY FAILLACE went 3-for-4, with each driving in a run.

KORTNIE WILLIAMS went 2-for-3 with a pair of RBI, while KELLY JERTBERG was 2-for-2 until being replaced by Vaughn.

SERRA 4, CHRISTIAN 3 – The visiting Patriots rallied for a run in the 6th inning, then two more in the 7th, but Conquistadors pitcher Makayla Martin escaped by leaving the bases loaded to maintain a share of the Eastern League lead.

Martin clouted a 3-run homer to right-center field in the 1st for the quick lead. Serra (9-5 overall, 2-0 EL) then added another marker in the 4th when center fielder Elontay Collins drilled a double, scoring on a basehit by freshman Ashley Blakely.

However, Christian stormed back to make things interesting.

In the 6th, MELANIE STARK singled and stole second base, coming around to score on consecutive sacrifices by KAYLA KRUELL and ANAYA TOBIASON.

An inning later, singles by KELLY ROBINSON, DANIELLE WADDINGTON and Stark loaded the bases.

Serra registered a fielder's choice out at the plate, then carefully pitched to MARY GRABOWSKI, walking her on a 3-2 pitch to force in a run to trim the deficit to 4-2.

An error allowed another run to score, but Martin coaxed a ground ball to shortstop to close it out.

SANTANA 3, RAMONA 1 – In an important contest with severe consequences to the CIF Division III playoff seedings, both 6th ranked Santana and No. 10 Ramona hit home runs in Thursday's (Apr. 12) non-league ballgame.

For the visiting Bulldogs, the blow was a solo shot by sophomore pitcher Kailey Hill in the 4th inning for a 1-0 lead.

However, the Sultans answered on a 3-run shot by catcher KAYTI GRABLE, the difference in a 3-1 triumph.

Grable's shot to left field also scored AHNALIN BARKHIMER and ARIEL RASMUSSON. Both juniors reached on bunt singles before Grable went deep to left-center field.

Rasmusson batted 2-for-3 to make a winner of Sultans pitcher AMBER SCHISLER, who recorded five strikeouts over 6 1/3 innings. Hill took the loss despite registering 13 strikeouts.

	Grossmont catcher Sarah Nicks (10) is about to get mobbed by teammates following her 3-run, 7th-inning home run to top Steele Canyon, 6-3. (Photos by Steve Crisci)
	The Foothillers also received a 6th-inning homer from Cel Davila (14), who ganed the pitching win. (Photos by Steve Crisci)

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
RANCHO SAN DIEGO (4-12-12) — The Grossmont Foothillers just wanted to kindly remind the rest of the world that despite losing key personnel from last season's San Diego CIF Division I championship team, they still are the defending Grossmont Hills League co-champions.

The point was made especially poignant by Hillers junior catcher SARAH NICKS, who erased a 3-3 tie with one sweep of the bat, blasting a deep, 3-run homer in the top of the 7th inning, the difference in Wednesday's (Apr. 11) 6-3 triumph over host Steele Canyon in the GHL opener between the reigning league titlists.

"There were two outs and we needed at least one run to win, so I was just looking for a single," said Nicks. "But she (the Steele Canyon pitcher) left the pitch right over the heart of the plate."

Instead of the desired basehit, Nicks sent a drive over the barrier in right-center field, also bringing home AMANDA PORTER (single) and AUBRIE MAY (walk).

"After Amanda and Aubrie got on, there was a wild pitch to move them into scoring position," noted Grossmont coach JERRY LERUD. "They had an open base, except CEL DAVILA was on deck and she had just homered in the 6th."

Thus, the Cougars elected to pitch to Nicks, who countered the strategic decision by posting her second homer of the season.

"We all still want to work hard and win," added Nicks. "Nobody thinks any other way despite all of the changes to the team."

The back-and-forth affair saw both ballclubs score twice in the 3rd.

Grossmont received a 2-run single by HAYLEY KASDEN, but the Cougars answered on a 2-run homer by KYLIE STEAGALL.

The Hillers runs were unearned after MEGAN CRISCI reached on an error with one out, then Amanda Porter reached on an infield single, with both advancing on a passed ball. The Cougars then got an out which should’ve ended the inning, but instead Kasden delivered a solid single to left-center field.

The Cougars got even when JESSICA THOMPSON, the team's fill-in catcher, smacked a double, then Steagall sent a deep drive to center field.

Steele Canyon then took the lead in the 5th, only to see Davila knot the game again with a solo homer to right in the 6th.

Following Nicks' go-ahead homer, Davila retired the Cougars in order to gain the pitching victory in relief.

Left: Grossmont shortstop Aubrie May (5) tags out Steele Canyon baserunner Amanda Hartnett. Right: Smiles all around for the Hillers' Megan Crisci (24) and releiver Cel Davila after an exciting 6-3 verdict over Steele Canyon in a battle of defending GHL champions. (Photos by Steve Crisci)

This leadoff triple by Jaymee Bush started a 4-run, 5th-inning rally for West Hills to top Helix. (Photo by Shuree Horne)

"Helix was playing really well while we weren't doing too much with the bats," admitted West Hills coach MIKE APPLEBAUM. "But we finally came through in the last couple of innings."

The Wolf Pack finally responded with four runs in the 5th inning, then two more in the 7th, to make the final score more lop-sided than it really was.

"We hung with them before things kind of fell apart," said Helix coach EMILY KOWALSKI. "We gave up two unearned runs on multiple errors, then that was it."

Wolf Pack senior JENNY SHEPARD, in her first career start because a teammate was injured, collected the game-winning RBI in the decisive 5th. Following a triple down the left-field line by JAYMEE BUSH to lead off the inning, Shepard followed with a run-scoring single to right.

Shepard's surprising clutch hit ignited the Wolf Pack into a series of five hits over six batters.

MELISSA EGGLESTON and ARIANNA QUINTANILLA followed with basehits, the latter for a run, then an out later, KATIE BYRD delivered an RBI single.

Shepard, a former track standout from Texas, finished by batting 2-for-3 against Helix. Meanwhile, Byrd and NOELLE JOHNSON each collected a double among their three hits.

Johnson also gained the pitching victory, allowing just three hits. However, one was a 2-run homer by the Scotties' SAMANTHA CUNNINGHAM. In the 4th, following a lead single by CHANELLE WARD, Cunningham sent a blast over the centerfield fence.

Ward finished the contest with two hits, while Johnson finished with 13 strikeouts. Helix pitcher KEANA NAKATA had four K's, but was tagged with several unearned runs in taking the setback.

Granite Hills shortstop Katy Crews (in blue) accept the ball and makes the tag on Valhalla baserunner Madison Labshere on a close 7th-inning play. Granite won 10-6. (Photos by James Labshere, left, and Suzy Lahitte)

Valhalla's Kiki Brown scores from third base against Granite Hills. (Photo by James Labshere)

"There are a lot of family ties out there," said Granite Hills coach ERIN COYNE. "And a lot of emotions besides the rivalry between the schools."

One of the emotional hurdles was carried by Eagles senior NICOLE OBNEY, who was going against her father, Valhalla coach MARK OBNEY. However, the first baseman overcame any nerves right away, ripping a 2-run double to left-center field when Granite Hills scored four times in the 1st.

VICTORIA HATHAWAY opened the scoring with a run-scoring single to score KIMMY TRIOLO (single), then Obney's extra-base hit brought home KAILA DeWITT (safe on error) and Hathaway. A ground ball by FELICIA VINCENT would later bring home KRISTINA LAHITTE (walk).

Valhalla answered by scoring twice in the 1st and 3rd frames, so the Eagles posted an even bigger inning despite the Norsemen turning an early double play in the 4th.

KATY CREWS and ALISSA BUDVARSON both singled,then both came home on Triolo's hit. DeWitt and Hathaway followed with basehits to load the bases, then Lahitte bombed a 3-run double for a 9-4 cushion.

Lahitte, the catcher, finished with four RBI for the contest, also adding an RBI single inthe 6th.

Valhalla failed to report its game information.

Safe at the plate is Granite Hills' Erica Vasquez. The catcher for Valhalla is Emily Ordonez (14). (Photo by Suzy Lahitte) ADDITIONAL PHOTOS HERE

Grossmont Valley League
SANTANA 22, MOUNT MIGUEL 0 (5 inn.) – Sophomore SAVANAH FENN and junior KAYTI GRABLE both belted a pair of home runs, supporting a combined no-hitter by Sultans pitchers AMBER SCHISLER and KYLIE BRASE to stop the host Matadors in Wednesday's (Apr. 11) GVL opener.

Among the power display was a grand slam in the 4th by Grable, who also struck for RBI doubles in the 1st and 2nd innings, then a 2-run homer in the 3rd to finish with a career-best eight RBI. In her final at-bat, she was intentionally walked.

Meanwhile, Fenn’s first career varsity homers featured a pair of 2-run shots and a 2-run double to finish with six RBI. All four homers sailed past the scoreboard in left field.

Meanwhile, Schisler retired all nine batters she faced, then Brase continued the perfect game into the 5th before a one-out error ended the bid for a perfect game on a ground ball by CATHERINE QUIJADA.

Santana is seeking a Grossmont Conference record sixth consecutive league crown. They are now 54-3 in league play during the stretch.

For the Matadors, pitcher NICOLE VARGAS registered a pair of strikeouts in the 5th inning.

Therefore, El Capitan pitcher DELANIE GOURLEY will need to wait in her attempt to become East County's career strikeout leader.

Gourley remains 16 short of the mark of 850, set by former Christian High standout SARAH DAWSON (1990-93), who later became the first MVP of National Pro Fastpitch.

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
SAN CARLOS (4-11-12) — Some people don't know they're not supposed to be so good at such a young age.

Yet for Patrick Henry leadoff batter MEGHAN FISHER, sometimes simplicity still leads to success.

"All I want to do is get on base, no matter how I do it," noted Fisher. "It's all about scoring runs.”

Simple yet elegant... and in the case of Patrick Henry High, successful, too.

Fisher reached base after getting hit by a pitch and a walk, scoring both times to lift the Patriots past visiting Scripps Ranch, 4-0, in the ballclubs' Eastern League opener on Tuesday (Apr. 10).

Many questioned why Scripps Ranch (8-6, 0-1 EL) was recently left out among the honorable mention in the rankings. But the inability of the Falcons to remain focused, as opposed to solid play by Patrick Henry, may prevent them from challenging Mira Mesa for the Eastern crown.

"We just believe we always have a chance," noted Fisher, one of seven freshmen now on the Patriots roster. "We all have a lot of confidence on this team."

The ballclub's positive outlook and focus was as instrumental as the 4-hit shutout tossed by GRACE HERNANDEZ. The senior struck out seven Falcons, walked just one, as only one baserunner reached second base, lifting the Patriots above the .500 plateau at 7-6 overall (1-0 Eastern).

The Fisher-Hernandez combination created the team's first run in the 3rd inning.

Fisher, the center fielder, was hit by a Taylor Curran pitch. ALLY FAILLACE, another frosh, sacrificed her to second with a bunt, then Hernandez lined an RBI single down the right-field line.

With the decision still in balance, the bottom of the Patrick Henry batting order put away the victory.

MADDY BARRAZA stroked a lead single, replaced at first base on a JENNIFER SCHUFF fielder's choice. Fisher walked, then Faillace singled to load the bases.

Hernandez then delivered a 2-run single on her Texas Leaguer which blooped over the Scripps Ranch first baseman and landed on the right-field line. Schuff and Fisher scored, but when the throw to the infield bounced around the backstop, Faillace also hustled home.

"With so many new faces on our ballclub, they don't know the history of what's happened here in the past." noted Patriots head coach DON SHAFFER. "And all they know is they want to win – it's a refreshing attitude."

Patrick Henry returns home Thursday (Apr. 12) against Morse at 3 p.m.

MIRA MESA 10, CHRISTIAN 0 (5 inn.) – QUIRISA MAUGA belted a 3-run double to back a 4-hit shutout by LANI VANTA, pacing the Marauders past the visiting Patriots in Tuesday's (Apr. 10) Eastern League opener.

Mira Mesa, ranked fourth in both major county newspaper polls, received a single and a pair of walks before all three runners came home on a drive to the gap by Mauga, a sophomore and younger sister of Marauders home run leadoff hitter KATIYANA MAUGA.

Meanwhile, TANI LEASAU batted 3-for-3 against Christian pitching, with each hit driving home a run for Mira Mesa (15-5-1 overall, 1-0 Eastern).

"All three of them, along with Lani, can just hit the ball and hit it hard," Mira Mesa veteran coach BRAD GRIFFITH said.

For Christian, ALYSSA HARRIS was perfect at the plate, registering a basehit and a sacrifice bunt.

Freshman KAYLA KRUELL and junior ANAYA TOBIASON also registered basehits for Christian, which despite a 2-11 overall record, remains the 4th-best team among CIF Division V schools in the U-T San Diego divisional rankings.

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (4-10-12) — In capturing the Falcon Fiesta championship over the weekend, West Hills High was fully prepared when they met El Capitan standout pitcher DELANIE GOURLEY in Monday's (Apr. 9) much-delayed Grossmont Conference Tournament ballgame.

"We just met two of the county's best riseball pitchers from Torrey Pines and Ramona," noted Wolf Pack coach MIKE APPLEBAUM. "And Delanie is good, too, but we were ready to face another riseball pitcher."

So ready, in fact, they erupted for five runs in the 1st inning against the Vaqueros, rolling to a 7-0 verdict.

Gourley still struck out 12 batters over six innings, but West Hills pitcher NOELLE JOHNSON did even better. The senior registered 18 of her 21 outs on strikes in recording a 1-hitter.

Of course, Gourley collected the lone Vaqueros basehits, going deep into the count before lining a 5th-inning curveball to the outfield for a solid basehit.

After KAYCEE AQUININOGOC reached on a dropped third strike, MELISSA EGGLESTON singled. Johnson then found the gap in right-center field, allowing Aquininogoc and Eggleston to score.

POINT LOMA 8, CHRISTIAN 2 – The Pointers chipped away in the middle innings to slowly pull away from the visiting Patriots in Monday's (Apr. 9) non-league contest.

MELANI STARK collected two hits for Christian, which opens Eastern League play Tuesday at preseason favorite and 5th-ranked Mira Mesa.

One of Stark's singles came in the 6th inning, later scoring on a double by MARY GRABOWSKI. Later in the inning, KELLY ROBINSON walked, scoring on a basehit by ALYSSA HARRIS.

Christian's hitting has been coming on of late, gaining seven hits off the red-hot Pointers, which captured the Jaguar Classic in Valley Center over the weekend.

SERRA 14, MOUNT MIGUEL 4 (6 inn.) – The Matadors stayed close to the visiting Conquistadors for five innings before the Lady Q-Dawgs scored seven times in the 6th inning to gain Monday's (Apr. 9) non-league game by run rule at Trude Field.

Both ballclubs scored twice in the opening inning, then Mount Miguel stayed close thanks to center fielder DEMETRIA ANDERSON. The senior made three nice catches, then with the bat she delivered a bases-loaded single in the 4th, one of seven batters to reach base against Serra.

The winless Matadors also displayed improved baserunning, as BLIME MACIAS, NICOLE VARGAS and CATHERINE QUIJADA all registered singles then stole second base. Others getting basehits were YESSICA BECERRA and ALIYAH CHAVEZ.

"I always tell the girls, one person is not going to win the game," said Matadors head coach KATHLEEN HANKLA. "Everyone has to put in something. They did that today – everyone contributed on the field and up to bat."

For Serra, center fielder Elontay Collins went 3-for-3 (all doubles), while Taylor Moran batted 4-for-5.

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
CARMEL VALLEY (4-8-12) — Classic match-up. Classic ballgame.

In a battle between the top two ballclubs in the CIF San Diego Section, No. 2 West Hills thought hustle was the difference in capturing the Falcon Fiesta, while No. 1 and tournament host Torrey Pines thought they gave away the crown.

West Hills center fielder MELISSA EGGLESTON was instrumental in keeping the Falcons off the scoreboard, then scored the game's lone run based on baserunning smarts and indecisiveness by the defense.

Eggleston first preserved the scoreless pitcher's duel with a diving catch to strand a Falcons runner at third base to end the 5th inning.

Following a 1-out triple by Falcons pitcher Taylor Lee, Johnson registered a strikeout. However, the troublesome Emily "Bubbles" Wolkins, who already was 2-for-2 against Johnson, came to the plate and popped the ball to shallow center field.

"I knew the batter was a slapper, so my first step was toward left field anyway," noted Eggleston. "It helped for me to get a jump on the ball."

Of course, the momentum grabber found Eggleston leading-off the 6th.

This is where it gets sticky depending on which team you're rooting for, as West Hills made several aggressive moves to win, countered by a series of mental lapses by Torrey Pines.

Eggleston placed a bunt down the third-base line for an easy scratch single. However, Torrey Pines would argue if the defender let the ball roll, it most probably would have gone foul.

Eggleston took off for second on a steal attempt. Although out by more than 15 feet, the defender misplayed the ball, leaving Eggleston on second. Thus, Torrey Pines elected to walk Johnson, who had already been intentionally walked and drilled a line drive out to shortstop.

The Falcons then lifted Lee and placed Rachel Nasland in the circle. She registered a called third strike and a soft liner to center for two outs, then thought she was out of the inning when she coaxed an ARIANNA QUINTANILLA ground ball to second base.

The Falcon Fiesta award winners: Cortney Horne (left), the Most Valuable Player; and Noelle Johnson, the Most Valuable Pitcher. (Courtesy photo)

Since there were two out, Eggleston not only took third base, she caught the defense by surprise by continuing home to register the game's only run.

"I really didn't know Arianna was safe at first until after I scored – I'm just supposed to hustle and run," noted Eggleston. "You're supposed to keep running until the play is over."

Despite three mental mistakes by the Falcons, the run off Lee (5-1) was earned as she suffered her first setback of the season. Meanwhile, Johnson collected her second victory of the day, striking out seven batters and earning the Most Valuable Pitcher award.

"It was difficult to finally get a run," noted Johnson. "Games like this are really hard to win."

The Most Valuable Player award went to Wolf Pack catcher CORTNEY HORNE. The victory gave the Wolf Pack (14-3) their second Falcon Fiesta crown in three seasons.

West Hills' Melissa Eggleston (6), who made the game-saving catch in the Falcon Fiesta finale vs. Torrey Pines, races to the gap to haul in a ball in the 7th inning against Ramona in the semifinals. (Photo by Shuree Horne)

Wolf Pack second baseman KATIE BYRD collected half of her team's four hits, including a 2-run single on her first trip to the plate.

The rally started with a bunt single and stolen base by right fielder KAYCEE AQUININOGOC. After a strikoeut, the Lady Dawgs elected to walk Johnson with an open base, but then they walked Horne to load the bases.

Bush followed with a ground single to the right side, with Aquininogoc and courtesy runner Shepard both scoring.

Ramona received its run in the 6th, so Bush countered with a single and stolen base in the 6th, but was stranded. Johnson then retired Ramona in order in the 7th, aided by an Eggleston catch in the gap for the second out.

TORREY PINES 4, MIRA MESA 1 (8 inn.) – The Falcons pushed across three runs using the international tiebreaker in the 8th inning to down the Marauders. The victory was the 299th in the career of head coach Jon Moore.

After Torrey Pines scored in the 3rd inning, Mira Mesa answered in the 5th on a leadoff home run by catcher TANI LEASAU. The bomb was her 7th of the season.

Otherwise, the Marauders (14-5-1) registered just one additional basehit as Nasland, the Falcons pitcher, tossed a 2-hitter. She struck out 11 to raise her record to 9-1.

Consolation
It was a long day for Grossmont Conference and other area schools in Saturday's (Apr. 7) consolation play in the Falcons Fiesta.

Mt. Carmel blanks Christian, 12-0 in five innings, despite a pair of hits by MARY GRABOWSKI. The other Patriots’ hit was recorded by clean-up hitter ANAYA TOBIASON.

Revitalized Poway, which stumbled out of the gate with just five wins in 12 starts to open the season, captured its second straight after stopping Granite Hills, 6-1. Li'anna Martinez batted 3-for-4 with a pair of doubles for the host Titans.

Valhalla pitcher Kylie Hipwell. (Photo by James Labshere)

Granite Hills vs. Poway PHOTOS

In the Bonita Vista bracket, the host Barons received a combined no-hitter from pitchers Jen Hartman (5 innings) and Cassie Bolin (1) in an 8-0 run-rule victory over Grossmont. The hosts also received a 3-run homer from Celinna Cosio, while leadoff batter Hanna Flippin went 3-for-4 with a double and three runs scored.

Meanwhile, Otay Ranch skated past Steele Canyon, 5-3.

Down 3-0, the Cougars scored twice in the 5th, yet could never get even.

With runners on the corners, a double steal saw AMANDA HARTNETT take home when the throw went through to second base, where JESSICA THOMPSON was safe. She then scored on a line double to center field by RACHEL BEASLEY.

One lone Eastern League team to "win" a game was Scripps Ranch, which received a forfeit victory when San Pasqual decided to skip the final round of the Falcon Fiesta and participate in an event in Las Vegas.

According to tournament organizers, the Golden Eagles coach claimed he did not know there were games scheduled for Saturday – uh, coach, it's marked in bold type on the entry form.

Needless to say, San Pasqual will soon be searching for another tournament after Falcon Fiesta staffers give them the expected boot.

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
SPRING VALLEY (4-7-12) — Patrick Henry High certainly would like to make a dent in the Eastern League fastpitch season which opens next week. However, based on Friday's (Apr. 6) results, the Patriots have the look of contenders for the foreseeable future.

"We have a freshman class that has been together for a long time," said Pats coach Don Shaffer. "Not only are the players close, but their parents are, too. There's just a ton of team chemistry here."

With league play slated to open Tuesday by hosting Scripps Ranch, Shaffer gave his youngsters one last chance to shine. And did they, pasting host Monte Vista, 14-0, in a non-league ballgame.

ALLY FAILLACE tossed a 3-hitter against Monte Vista for her second career victory – and first varsity shutout – while SIERRA ALTMEYER and RYLIE RUCKLE each smacked 7th-inning home runs when the Patriots rolled up eight runs to expand a 6-0 advantage.

For Altmeyer, the 2-run shot to start the rally was her second of the season, both coming with Faillace in the pitching circle in place of No. 1 starter GRACE HERNANDEZ.

"That's really interesting," noted Shaffer. "I guess that shows how close our freshmen are."

Ruckle, a sophomore, started the decisive inning with a double, then Altmeyer went deep to right field for a 8-0 advantage.

MONTANA POTTS, who was called up from the JV for the contest, then belted a triple in her appearance with the big club.

KORTNIE WILLIAMS, who batted 3-for-5 against the Monarchs, later added an RBI single, eventually scoring when Ruckle received a second at-bat in the inning, going down the left-field line for a 3-run homer to cap the outburst.

Meanwhile, Faillace struck out three batters, not allowing a runner past second base all morning.

Hernandez is expected back in the circle when Patrick Henry (6-5) opens Eastern League play at home against Scripps Ranch. The Falcons collected a free victory on Friday when San Pasqual announced it would forfeit Saturday's Falcon Fiesta contest.

The championship round of Torrey Pines' annual tournament features the top-ranked Falcons against Eastern League favorite Mira Mesa at 9 a.m., then No. 2 West Hills meets Ramona at 11:30 a.m. The title game will follow.

Several East County schools will also partake in consolation action in ballgames slated throughout North County.

Granite Hills' Victoria Hathaway (top) with the first of her two hits to drive in runs. Moments later, Michelle Miller (bottom) scores on a basehit by Eagles catcher Kristina Lahitte in a 3-0 victory over Escondido on Kimmy Triolo's no-hitter. (Photos by Suzy Lahitte) ADDITIONAL PHOTOS HERE

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
ESCONDIDO (4-6-12) — The last time Granite Hills High pitcher KIMMY TRIOLO faced perennial power Escondido, things did not go so well.

"They got to me – I gave up a bunch of hits," recalled Triolo about last season's opener at the Cougar Classic.

A year later, moving to the north side of Devil's Corner, Triolo demonstrated her vast improvement, striking out 10 batters in tossing a no-hitter against the Cougars.

"I think I've improved quite a bit, putting better spin on the ball," Triolo noted. "This was a lot different from last year."

Triolo, a junior, finished one batter short of a perfect game. The lone Escondido baserunner came on the drop of a routine fly ball in the 3rd.

The no-hitter was ticketed for destruction when ESC-9 drilled a hot grounder to the left side in the 6th. However, Eagles third baseman MICHELLE MILLER not only stretched out fully to glove the ball, she was able to recover and throw the runner out at first base.

"Michelle's just great at third base," added Triolo.

The Granite Hills offense found freshman VICTORIA HATHAWAY in the middle of both rallies, registering run-scoring hits in the 3rd and 5th innings.

Following a pair of walks and a fielder's choice, Hathaway and KRISTINA LAHITTE registered consecutive RBI singles for a 2-0 advantage.

In the 5th, Hathaway sent a shot down the left-field line for a double. On both of her hits, Triolo was the runner on base who scored.

"Our team did the things we needed to win," said Hathaway.

The defensive battery of Triolo and Lahitte each collected three hits to fuel an 11-hit attack for Granite Hills (7-5).

"We just keep working hard and now the hard working is paying off," Hathaway added.

Valhalla batter Dionna Smith places the squeeze bunt, allowing Kiki Brown to score from third base, (Photos by James Labshere)

VALHALLA 9, MISSION HILLS 8 (8 inn.) – In the international tiebreaker, the Norsemen lost their placed runner on a fielder's choice, yet still bounced back to score twice in the bottom of the 8th to walk-off the Grizzlies in Thursday's (Apr. 5) Falcon Fiesta pool-play contest at Leto Field.

Senior first baseman KIKI BROWN was a focal point in the rally. She bombed a double to the gap, bringing home KYLIE HIPWELL to match the Grizzlies' run in the 8th, although Hipwell was in peril after running through what a coach admitted was late stop sign at third base. However, the relay throw to the plate sailed high.

Brown took third on the throw, so Mission Hills elected to walk MADISON LABSHERE and face DIONNA SMITH. However, Smith was able to squeeze Brown home on what turned out to be a bunt single for the walk-off winner.

Brown was also in the middle of a 3-run outburst in the 1st. Following basehits by DANIELLE UY and Hipwell, Brown found the fence in right-center for her first 2-run double on the afternoon. Brown scored on a Smith double which just missed a diving attempt by the Mission Hills left fielder.

Then the teams posted the first of four lead changes, as Mission Hills answered with a pair of runs in the 2nd, then three more in the 3rd on a Kortney Craker homer.

Valhalla closed to within 5-4 on a pair of doubles to right by Labshere and Smith. Then the Norsemen grabbed a 6-5 lead with two runs in the 5th when sophomore EMILY ORDONEZ doubled in both Brown (single) and Labshere (double).

Again, Mission Hills countered with two in the 6th for a 7-6 advantage, but the Norsemen immediately moved even when Uy doubled to center, then scored on an infield error.

For Brown, her four RBI was a career high, making a winner of pitcher ASHLEY MADARA, who tossed all eight innings.

For Mission Hills (5-11), Jessica White went 2-for-4, with a double, two runs and a pair of RBI.

PATRICK HENRY 5, RANCHO BUENA VISTA 3 – The host Longhorns gave away another ballgame in the late innings Thursday (Apr. 5), as the Patriots roared back with three runs in the top of the 7th to claim a Falcon Fiesta affair in North County.

Trailing 3-2, GRACE HERNANDEZ bombed a leadoff home run to move her team even. Then things got worse for RBV.

An error allowed ALLY FAILLACE to reach base, SYDNEY JAMES singled, then both advanced into scoring position of a KELLY JERTBERG sacrifice bunt. MADDY BARRAZA followed with a sacrifice fly to score Faillace, but when the throw from the outfield bounced away, James also came home.

The Patriots opened the scoring with runs in the 2nd and 3rd innings.

With two outs in the 2nd, a series of four consecutive basehits – by Jertberg, Barrazam MEGHAN FISHER and JENNIFER SCHUFF (for the RBI) – gave Patrick Henry a 1-0 lead. An inning later, SIERRA ALTMEYER singled, then took two bases on a Hernandez bunt. Faillace followed with a sacrifice fly for a 2-0 cushion.

LA COSTA CANYON 12, CHRISTIAN 0 (5 inn.) – Freshman KAYLA KRUELL registered a 4th-inning single for the Patriots, the lone basehit in a combined shutout by the Mavericks' Kayla Silverstein and Niki Prohaska.

Allie Tully knocked in four runs for LCC, Alex Condos homered, while Amanda De Priest posted two triples and a double, scoring each time.

OCEANSIDE 11, MOUNT MIGUEL 1 — Taylor Doyle spun a 3-hitter for the Pirates (4-8) in Thursday's (Apr. 5) Jaguar Classic contest in Spring Valley.

Taylour Faasua registered two RBI with a double, while the rest of the Oceanside batting order only had three RBI, as more than half of its runs scored on five errors by the Matadors.

However, the defense kept Mount Miguel in the game early on. Catcher CATHERINE QUIJADA gunned down an Oceanside runner attempting to steal second base, while YESSICA BECERRA made some solid stops to retire three batters.

The only Matadors run came in the 4th when MARLEESA CHAVEZ smacked a double over the head of the center fielder, coming around on a passed ball and an error.

The hosts also had a chance to score in the 4th when NICOLE VARGAS lined a lead double, moving to third when a hard ground ball by ALIYAH CHAVEZ (who earlier singled) was booted by the shortstop. However, Doyle retired the next three batters to escape the jam.

Granite Hills senior Nicole Obney goes deep with this 4th-inning home run against Torrey Pines.

Eagles left-fielder Alissa Budvarson leans into foul territory to rob a Torrey Pines batter Tuesday.

'Wolking' on water?

Eagles first baseman Katy Crews (left) will record the out on Torrey Pines batter Emily Wolking... Is the airborne Falcon actually 'Wolking on water'? (Photos by Suzy Lahitte) ADDITIONAL PHOTOS HERE

© East County Sports.com
CARMEL VALLEY (4-4-12) — Making the most without much, Granite Hills High registered just a pair of hits during Tuesday's (Apr. 3) Falcon Fiesta pool-play contest. But both were big ones.

NICOLE OBNEY belted a solo home run to right field with two outs in the 4th inning, while VICTORIA HATHAWAY went deep with a 2-run shot in the 7th, but top-ranked Torrey Pines, the tournament host, survived to take a 4-3 decision.

The Falcons posted three runs in the 1st and another run in the 4th, as Julia Yacker went 2-for-4 with an RBI double. The ballclub also stole seven bases to keep pitcher Taylor Lee undefeated this season at 7-0, but not without some nervous, final moments.

After Lee retired the first two Eagles batters in the 7th, KRISTINA LAHITTE was walked, then Hathaway delivered her blast to right-center field to make it a 1-run ballgame.

Torrey Pines (17-1), which was undefeated until getting bumped off by San Marcos over the weekend, then registered the final out, gaining a berth in Saturday's championship semifinals. West Hills already owns a final four berth, with the two remaining positions still to be announced.

Charger Invitational
At Big League Dreams in Las Vegas, two schools with championship aspirations settled for a battle in the third-place game, with Mira Mesa pulling out a shocking 5-3 decision over Santana in a contest decided with a variation of the international tiebreaker.

KATIYANA MAUGA delivered the game-winning blow, rocking a walk-off, grand slam homer. It was the fourth time in as many losses that the Sultans (12-4) gave up the decisive run in their opponents' final at-bat.

The teams played to a 1-1 tie through six innings when the tournament clock expired, so the ITB began with runners on second and third bases (instead of the traditional runner on second).

For Santana, both placed baserunners scored on a booming double by sophomore KYLIE BRASE, who went to the opposite field in right-center for a 3-1 advantage. Placed baserunners TARA GRENNAN and ASHLEE GROOVER scored.

However, Mira Mesa answered with just one swing of the bat. Following a one-out walk to load the bases, Mauga followed with her third homer on the day to win it. She also went deep twice against Cathedral Catholic, but the Lady Dons still won to gain a berth in the Black Division title game.

AMBER SCHISLER, who registered three homers on Monday, extended her East County lead with a solo homer in the 4th off Marauders pitcher LANI VANTA. However, Mira Mesa got even on a MERCEDES HUMPHREY homer in the 5th.

In the White Division finale, Madison bombed previously undefeated Eldorado of Las Vegas, 8-1 in six innings.

Las Vegas-SHADOW RIDGE 9, VALHALLA 3 (5 inn.) — The Mustangs' Krislyn Campos went 3-for-3 with a run scored to race past the Norsemen in five innings.

Justin Garganese was 2-for-3 with a run, and teammate Danielle Buecker went 2-for-4 with a run for Shadow Ridge, which scored six innings in the top of the 5th.

Madison Labshere was 2-for-3 with a double to lead Valhalla.

El Capitan failed to report.

MONTE VISTA 6-21, SWEETWATER 5-5 (2nd game, 5 inn. — In a make-up from March 10 (SAT testing day), the Monarchs posted 27 total runs to smother the Red Devils.

Monte Vista twice scored twice to mount a 4-0 lead in Wednesday's (Apr. 4) opener.

Consecutive basehits by EMILY LOPEZ, EMMA DeMARS and SIERRA GOLDHAGEN produced one run in the 1st, followed by a run on a Sweetwater error. In the 2nd, both runs were registered on illegal pitches.

The other Monarchs runs came in the 6th on a RBI single by MEGAN SEARS and a squeeze bunt by BRITTANY WILLIAMS.

The second ballgame saw Monte Vista post eight runs before Sweetwater received its swings. Included was a 2-run single by Sears, while CHELSEA BALAJADIA was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded.

© East County Sports.com
VISTA (4-3-12) — The battle to determine the No. 1 pitcher for Grossmont High took another turn.

Following the graduation of RACHEL STALFORD, the East County pitcher of the year and a first-team All-CIF honoree, the Foothillers have placed several players in the circle, all posting similar results.

On Monday (Apr. 2), the list grew a bit larger when freshman ANEVAY PEREZ became the third different Grossmont pitcher to throw a shutout this season, tossing a 3-hitter to blank host Rancho Buena Vista, 3-0, in a Falcon Fiesta contest.

Perez struck out four Longhorns. Although she walked three, RBV never advanced a runner past second base as the Hillers cruised to an easy triumph.

First baseman MEGAN CRISCI and center fielder AMANDA PORTER – both juniors – fueled the offense for some early runs by recording two hits each.

In the 2nd inning, Crisci accepted a one-out walk, scoring when third baseman KATHERINE TREJO launched a 2-run homer to right field.

An inning later, catcher SARAH NICKS ledoff with a single, with courtesy runner JILL SULLIVAN posting an insurance run following a basehit by CEL DAVILA, then an RBI double by Crisci.

Chargers Invitational – Las Vegas
SANTANA: A year ago, the Sultans met Carson in the tournament championship game, but lost. In a revenge situation, Santana was poised to finally beat them until the Colts rallied back with two runs in the 6th (and final) inning.

Thus, all three Sultans’ losses this season have come in the final frame.

Santana is in position to meet Mira Mesa or Cathedral Catholic in the third-place game after winning two other contests in five innings, downing Hilltop 10-2, then Las Vegas-Shadow Ridge, 5-1.

In all three contests, AMBER SCHISLER hit a home run, giving her the East County lead with six.

It should be noted, unlike previous events held in Las Vegas on diamonds without an outfield fence, this event's ballgames are on enclosed fields, although Schisler's homer against Shadow Ridge was an inside-the-park variety drive down the left-field line which missed the diving attempt by the Mustangs outfielder.

Against Carson, TARA GRENNAN's RBI single gave Santana a 1-0 lead in the 1st. Two innings later, a one-out basehit by KAYTI GRABLE was followed by Schisler's first homer on the day.

Hilltop took a 2-0 lead in Santana's second game, but it only took four innings to move in front, followed by a 7-run eruption in the 5th inning.

Schisler's 2-run shot to left in the 3rd tied it, then junior AHNALIN BARKHIMER gained what prove to be the game-winning RBI by driving in KENDRA KUPER with a basehit in the 4th to give the pitching win to Schisler.

Among the big hits in the 5th were a 2-run triple by ALICIA ZUNIGA and a line single for another run by Kuper.

Santana then scored four runs in the 1st to quickly melt the Mustangs, with Schisler stopping Shadow Ridge with nine strikeouts to collect another triumph.

Consecutive one-out doubles by Grable and Schisler got the offense rolling, followed by singles from Grennan, Zuniga (two RBI) and KYLIE BRASE (one RBI).

Schisler opened the 3rd with her inside-the-park homer. Grennan followed with a walk, coming around on a stolen base, a passed ball, then beating the throw home on a fielder's choice grounder to first base by TAYLOR BARRY.

Hitting home runs for Valhalla at the Charger Classic in Las Vegas are Emily Ordonez (top) and Danielle Uy. (Photos by James Labshere)

VALHALLA: It's always amazing how San Diego area schools travel more than 300 miles to play each other at the Chargers Invitational in Las Vegas. On Monday (Apr. 2), the Norsemen played ganes against a pair of CIFSDS cousins, but dropped both of them.

Valhalla fell to Mira Mesa, 4-1, and were run-ruled by Cathedral Catholic, 13-3. In between, the Norsemen survived a late rally to down locally-based Durango, 2-1.

Against Mira Mesa, Valhalla opened with a bang when DANIELLE UY led off with a home run to center field. However, the team collected just two additional hits against Marauders pitcher LANI VANTA.

Vanta suffered a slight setback when her game-tying homer to start the 3rd was over-ruled to a ground-rule double, yet Mira Mesa still scored twice in the 3rd and 4th innings to gain the victory.

Against Durango, the Trailblazers scored in the 6th (and final) inning, but Norsemen pitcher KAILEY HIPWELL survived to gain the victory.

Nevada umpires own different interpretations as to what is an illegal pitch – "balk" for you baseball people – with Hipwell cited three times. But after Durango got its run, ASHLEY MADARA entered the circle to gain her first career save, stranding the potential game-tying runner at third base.

Valhalla scored single runs in the 3rd and 4th. A lead double by SARA FEDERICO was followed by a run-scoring basehit by Hipwell. Then MADISON LABSHERE stroked a lead double, later scoring on an error.

The ballgame with Cathedral Catholic was a disaster from start to finish.

The Dons received five unearned runs in the 1st, then posted seven more to invoke the run-rule in the 4th.

Trailing 6-0 in the 3rd, the Norsemen tallied all of their runs on a 3-run homer by Labshere.

MIRA MESA: The Marauders, ranked 8th in the latest U-T San Diego rankings, took a pair of Chargers Invitational contests Monday (Apr. 2), downing Valhalla 4-1, then Banning 4-0.

Against the Norsemen, Vanta's game-tying homer to open the 3rd inning was over-ruled to a ground-rule double. However, two outs later, TANI LEASAU lifted a bloop single to get the teams even, then she gave Mira Mesa the lead by stealing second base, then advancing around on an error and a wild pitch.

The Marauders were later given a pair of unearned runs in the 5th.

In game two, freshman ALICIA GARCIA registered her first career shutout to stop Banning, 4-0.

EL CAPITAN: The Vaqueros moved to the top of their pool after downing a pair of local ballclubs Monday (Apr. 2), moving within a victory of the championship round.

In the opener, DELANIE GOURLEY struck out 12 in spinning a five-inning one-hitter to lead El Capitan over Las Vegas HS, 5-0 in 5 innings. The lone Wildcats hits came on Ashly Westgarth’s first-inning single.

In game two, KATIE CARMICHAEL tossed a 1-hitter to stop LV-Liberty, 6-1, in a time-limit shortened four-inning contest. Liberty's Patriots then posted a 10-5 win over Mar Vista of Imperial Beach, El Cap's next opponent.

Finally, El Capitan ripped Mar Vista, 11-0 in four innings. Gourley faced just 10 batters in her three innings, allowing a bunt single and striking out the other nine Mariners.

Gourley now has 807 career strikeouts, surpassing the Grossmont Conference career mark formerly held by JENNY LAHITTE of Granite Hills (766, from 2007-10),

© East County Sports.com
CHULA VISTA (4-1-12) — Steele Canyon High raced through a pair of opponents to reach Saturday's (Mar. 31) championship of the Hilltop Tournament, but Scripps Ranch collected the trophy after nipping the Cougars, 4-3, in the finale on a dramatic play at the plate.

Steele Canyon (11-4) took out Olympian, 10-2, in the quarterfinals, then outslugged Otay Ranch, 13-8, in the semifinals.

STEELE CANYON 10, OLYMPIAN 2 (6 inn.) – It looked like a short day for the Cougars as the Eagles scored two run right out of the blocks. However, four runs in the 4th inning opened a stretch of 10 unanswered runs to give SC the victory in six innings.

An error, a walk and a hit batter loaded the bases to set-up the comeback rally.

JESSICA THOMPSON and AMANDA HARTNETT both singled in runs to tie the ballgame. Olympian registered an out at the plate, but KALI SCHWARTZ and RACHEL BEASLEY followed with run-scoring basehits.

Then the Cougars power came out in the 4th, when KYLIE STEAGALL smacked a 1-out, solo homer to left, then Schwartz lined a 2-run shot to right, also scoring Hartnett (single).

STEELE CANYON 13, OTAY RANCH 8 – The Cougars improved their record to 5-0 against South Bay schools this season by whipping the Mustangs for the second time this season after racing to an 8-0 advantage.

Seven different Cougars recorded RBI hits, starting with a run-scoring triple by Steagall in the 1st, followed by squeeze bunts for runs by Thompson and Hartnett.

In the 4th and 5th, Steele Canyon cashed in lead doubles by RACHEL BEASLEY and TORI YANITOR, the first by Steagall's second hit of the contest, then a GRACE KRAMER basehit.

MOLLY HUTCHISON also posted a 2-run single, while ANNA HILLMAN knocked in Hartnett with a 6th-inning double.

SCRIPPS RANCH 4, STEELE CANYON 3 – The Cougars gambled and lost on the final play of the tournament.

Trailing 4-2 with the potential game-tying runs in scoring position, Steagall lined a single to right field. ALYSSA MASCARI easily scored while the base coach sent Yanitor home.

However, the Falcons right fielder fired a strike to the plate for the final out to claim the championship in dramatic fashion.

Steele Canyon once held a 2-0 lead, getting one run on a double-steal when Yanitor (game-opening triple) took home when Thompson (hit by pitch) was thrown out after she darted for second base. Then in the 4th, an RBI triple by Beasley brought home Schwartz (walk).

The final two runs by the Falcons came home on errors.

Steagall finished with a career-best performance, hitting 8-for-12 over the three contests with two homers, a triple and a double.

Over the final two ballgames, Yanitor went 5-for-6 with a triple, a pair of doubles and three walks, reaching base on 8-of-9 occasions.

Steagall joined Yanitor and Thompson on the all-tournament team.