© 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.

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
RANCHO SAN DIEGO (3-31-12) — No one wants to experience it, yet the slow start this season by the Valhalla Norsemen was predictable. Fielding up to six freshmen in the starting line-up, the ballclub struggled out of the gate.

But look at the Norsemen (6-4) now, winners in four of their last five, capped by Friday's (Mar. 30) 12-3 pasting of highly-respected Mt. Carmel in Falcon Fiesta action at Leto Field. The streak could be five straight wins if not for an extra-inning loss.

"Our team is starting to grow and we're trying to work together more," said winning pitcher KAILEY HIPWELL. "By the end of the year, our team will keep improving and be very good."

The team's youth is almost an afterthought because it's based on more than talent.

"This is a very talented freshman class – and very hard working," noted third baseman ABIGAIL METSCH. "But you gotta have the mental game, too.”

Metsch demonstrated both sides to bail Hipwell out of a possible late-inning jam. Not only did she field a hot grounder ticketed for the left-field corner, Metsch collected the ball on the backhand, tagged third base, then fired to KIKI BROWN at first base to convert an inning-ending double play to close the 6th inning.

"You gotta think ahead and know what you're going to do with the ball when you get it," added Metsch, a 4.00 student in the classroom. "I feel we haven't hit our peak – we're still working up with everyone going up and getting better."

Valhalla mounted an early 6-0 lead before the Sundevils answered with three runs off Hipwell in the 4th. Otherwise, she allowed just three other hits in the other six frames to collect the victory.

Although Hipwell wears Norsemen orange, the rest of her softball-playing relatives played for Grossmont. She is the niece of Margaret Hipwell, the 2002 Grossmont North League player of the year, while Melanie Hipwell (Grossmont '96) is a member of the Hawai'i-Hilo Athletics Hall of Fame as a catcher for the small-college power Vulcans.

There's more to the Norsemen than their frosh. Catcher NAOMI TELLEZ is a 4-year starter for Valhalla, while junior shortstop MADISON LABSHERE has been hitting all season, including a 4-for-4 outing against Mt. Carmel. She scored on all four occasions.

The hosts scored four times in the 1st, capped by a 2-run single by Hipwell. Later, Brown opened the 6th with a mammoth home run to left field by turning on the inning's first pitch. Brown finished by going 3-for-3 and scoring three times.

Elsewhere
Ballgames were scheduled, but no others were played on Friday (Mar. 30).

At least San Ysidro called West Hills some 48 hours in advance so the lowly Cougars, which were run-ruled by Monte Vista, 15-3, earlier in the week, would not get embarrassed by the No. 3 Wolf Pack.

Meanwhile, Mountain Empire claims it thought they were the home team in a contest scheduled for Christian High's Dawson Field – that's where the umpires showed up.

Top: Helix' Stephanie McKenzie blocks the plate but ECVHS's Evelyn Glaude still scores. Bottom: Scotties pitcher Keana Nakata covers the plate to cutdown the Braves' Christina Valenzuela. (Photos by Tony Bordine)

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
CARLSBAD (3-30-12) — Proving that last weekend's victory was anything but a fluke, West Hills High returned to the North County to again stop second-ranked Carlsbad, claiming a 6-1 victory behind a 4-hitter by NOELLE JOHNSON.

The triumph set the stage for a possible showdown with No. 1 Torrey Pines during the championship round of the Falcon Fiesta. West Hills joined the tournament hosts with 4-0 marks following Thursday's (Mar. 29) ballgames, both clinching berths in the semifinals. The Falcons advanced after nipping Otay Ranch, 1-0.

Hopefully, tournament organizers will place the schools in opposite halves of the draw, setting the stage for a dramatic finale on Sat., Apr. 7. Meanwhile, the Lancers have dropped three of four, including a loss earlier in the week to rising Fallbrook, to fall into the consolation pool.

WEST HILLS 6, CARLSBAD 1 – With the Wolf Pack holding a 2-1 lead, KAYLA ARAUJO belted a 2-run homer to start a 4-run rally in the 5th inning to bury the host Lancers for the second time in less than a week.

ARIANNA QUINTANILLA opened the 4th with a solid line single, but the ball didn't get high in the air. However, Araujo's drive did gain the needed elevation to go out in left field.

Johnson struck out five batters to collect the victory. She also opened the scoring with an RBI single in the 3rd. JAYMEE BUSH opened the inning with a walk, then was sacrificed into scoring position on a KAYCEE AQUININOGOC bunt.

In the 4th, KATIE BYRD scored in unusual fashion following her 1-out single to right field. Quintanilla also bunted, but was thrown out at first base. Meanwhile, Byrd flew around the diamond and took two bases on the bunt. But when a Westview defender elected to throw behind the runner from first-to-third, Byrd sprinted for home and was safe.

Catcher CORTNEY HORNE added two of West Hills' 13 hits. For Carlsbad (9-4), Jacque Batchelder registered a pair of doubles.

Meanwhile, the Wolf Pack (12-3) picked up a second victory later in the day when lowly San Ysidro, which fell to Monte Vista, 15-3, earlier in the week, elected to forfeit Friday's scheduled contest in western Santee.

LA COSTA CANYON 2, STEELE CANYON 1 – The youthful Mavericks start six freshmen which accounted for part of the team's slow start this season. But with Cal State Fullerton bound Kayla Silverstein in the circle Thursday (Mar. 29), LCC was able to hold off the host Cougars in a Falcon Fiesta pool-play contest.

Silverstein, a junior, struck out nine batters, including three in the 6th when Steele Canyon 's KALI SCHWARTZ accepted a leadoff walk, but courtesy runner ELIZABETH MELLO was left stranded at second base following a wild pitch.

The Cougars also placed two runners on base in the 7th via a Schwartz line single and a TORI YANITOR walk, but Silverstein escaped on a popup to the catcher.

The lone Steele Canyon run saw MOLLY HUTCHISON and JESSICA THOMPSON single in the 2nd, with AMANDA HARTNETT squeezing in Hutchison to tie the ballgame.

However, Hannah Henry broke the tie in the 4th after she walked, advanced on a pair of sac bunts, then came home on an infield single by Samantha Smith.

The ballgame also marked the return to East County by Mavs coach MARY JO GRISWOLD, the former Valhalla High standout. Griswold, better known as the longtime coach at Scripps Ranch, stepped down two years ago to fight cancer, but picked by her new gig after the disease went into remission.

HELIX 11, EL CAJON VALLEY 3 (5 inn.) – The Highlanders' PRECIOUS SEETIA-NOA batted 4-for-4 and drove in four runs, while SAMANTHA CUNNINGHAM registered a pair of RBI and tossed a complete game, helping the Scotties down the Braves in a much-delayed Grossmont Conference Tournament game.

Seetia-Noa collected half of her RBI total in the 1st, when Helix (7-6) scored four times in the wire-to-wire triumph.

KEANA NAKATA started the rally with a leadoff single, stole second base, then moved to third on a CHANELLE WARD sacrifice bunt. Cunningham walked, with courtesy runner CLARISSA SMITH stealing second base, with both runners coming home on a Seetia-Noa Basehit.

The other two runs came on a double to left-center by SARA GONZALES, scoring both Ward and SYDNI TOILOLO, who scored from first after she walked. However, on the play at the plate, Toilolo suffered a concussion when she collided with the Braves' catcher.

ECVHS answered with a pair of runs, so Helix put the victory away after scoring five more times in the 2nd. The outburst featured a 2-run single by Cunningham, an RBI double by Seetia-Noa, and a run-scoring basehit by DESIRAE BORDINE. Ward finished with a pair of hits, including a double, to back Cunningham, who struck out six batters.

SCRIPPS RANCH 4, VALHALLA 3 (9 inn.) — Norsemen sophomore ASHLEY MADARA carried a no-hitter into the 7th inning, but the host Falcons were able to force extra innings, re-tie the game in the 8th, then counter a Valhalla run with two in the 9th for a shocking Falcon Fiesta win Thursday (Mar. 29).

DANIELLE UY scored in the 6th after reaching on a fielder's choice, then knocked in on a double by freshman KAILEY HIPWELL.

After the Falcons tied it, the teams went to an international tiebreaker, exchanging runs in the 8th, with the Norsemen run coming on a hit batsman to KIKI BROWN with the bases loaded.

In the 9th, after the Norsemen lost their placed runner on a close call at the plate on a squeeze play, they still were able to push across a run. KATIE SCHMIDT (fielder's choice) went to third base on a ground-rule double by EMILY ORDONEZ, as her shot bounced over the 4-foot portable fence. Then with two outs, frosh ABIGAIL METSCH singled to left to score Schmidt.

MADISON LABSHERE also doubled for Valhalla.

Christian High's Mary Carmen Grabowski enjoys the home run trot twice Thursday, slugging a pair of deep shots against powerful Westview. (Christian High courtesy photos)

WESTVIEW 13, CHRISTIAN 5 (5 inn.) – Senior first baseman MARY GRABOWSKI slugged a pair of home runs to give her an East County co-leading four on the season, but the Wolverines (10-2) proved too much in Thursday's (Mar. 29) Falcon Fiesta affair.

Grabowski, who left her catching spot to rehab a surgically-repaired shoulder, slammed a 2-run homer in the 1st inning to tie the ballgame. She later added a solo shot in the 3rd before Westview coaches intentionally walked her in the 4th, despite holding an 8-4 advantage.

Christian also received run-scoring doubles by GABY GRABOWSKI to score KAYLA BRUELL (sngle) in the 3rd, and ALYSSA HARRIS to bring home MEL STARK (single following the homer) in the 4th.

The top of the Wolverines batting order combined to drive in eight runs. Lauren Parker and Amanda Shewry, the No. 1 and 2 hitters, had three RBI each, while Sasha Margulies knocked in two with a 3-for-4 outing.

FALLBROOK 8, GROSSMONT 7 – The Warriors (9-2) tallied seven runs in the 3rd inning, then withstood a massive Foothillers rally to take Thursday's (Mar. 29) Falcon Fiesta game in North County.

VALLEY CENTER 14, MOUNT MIGUEL 0 (5 inn.) – Jaguars sophomore Nia Hutton tossed a 1-hit shutout and hit a grand slam Thursday (Mar. 29), taking this Jaguar Classic contest held in North County.

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (3-29-12) — If this is the future of fastpitch softball, featuring a ton more offense and more key plays than one would see in a week's worth of ballgames with the old 40-foot pitching rubber, than Santana High would move high on the list to maintain the revised conditions.

Trailing on three different occasions by multiple runs, the Sultans soared back to earn a berth into the Grossmont Conference Tournament championship game by taking down visiting Grossmont, 9-8 in 10 innings, Wednesday (Mar. 29).

Grossmont's Hayley Kasden (5) is safe at the plate, but Santana rallied for the victory. (Photo by Steve Crisci)

Santana has reached the tournament finale in every even-numbered year since 2006, yet it has not taken the crown in six years.

Meanwhile, the Foothillers, which led the pool of Grossmont Hills League teams entering the day, not only fell into third place, but saw their tiebreaker advantage blown apart after allowing nine runs. Grossmont has yet to advance to the GCT final this century.

Santana trailed 3-0, yet got even, then were down 6-3 only to tie it again. But after Grossmont scored twice in the 7th inning, the Sultans were able to force extra innings when catcher KAYTI GRABLE went to the opposite field with her second home run of the ballgame – a 2-run shot after falling 0-2 behind in the count.

"I was a little surprised they went inside with the first two pitches," noted Grable, who also ticketed a 2-run homer in the 5th. "Then they worked me outside, but the last pitch was up a little and not that far outside."

Her shot to right-center field gave her four RBI on the afternoon, as Santana slugged four homers against Hillers pitching.

In the 10th, Santana won it on an unearned run by cashing in a leadoff walk to Grable.

AMBER SCHISLER followed with a line single to center, then TARA GRENNAN got a free swing at a 3-2 pitch (a ball would've loaded the bases with no one out), singling off the glove of Grossmont's third baseman.

Finally, ALICIA ZUNIGA slapped a hard ground ball, but it was booted to give the Sultans their only lead of the ballgame and giving Schisler a complete-game victory. She struck out 10 batters.

Earlier in the year, Grable made a verbal commitment to Northern Illinois , a member of the NCAA Division I Mid-America Conference.

"I emailed a bunch of schools, then members of their staff came to one of my games," Grable recalled. "I liked what they wanted to do with the program and get hard workers and not just a bunch of good ballplayers."

"So I visited the campus and justfell in love with it."

Grossmont opened with three runs in the 2nd. Catcher SARAH NICKS belted a solo homer for a 1-0 lead.

KAYLA APPENZELLER and MEGAN CRISCI had back-to-back basehits, AMANDA PORTER walked, then AUBRIE MAY singled to right for two runs.

However, Grennan answered back with a 3-run homer in the 4th.

In the 5th, Grossmont pushed across runs over three consecutive batters.

CATHERINE TREGO singled in May (lead single), CEL DAVILA lifted a sacrifice fly to plate HAYLEY KASDEN (single), then SARAH NICKS singled to right to bring home Trego.

However, Santana again tied it when KYLIE BRASE capped a 3-run rally in the 5th with a 2-run homer.

Grossmont's Anevay Perez tossed the final two innings to claim the victory over Patrick Henry. (Photo by Steve Crisci)

Hillers' engine starting to get into gear By Nick Pellegrino © East County Sports.com EL CAJON (3-28-12) — It's not just a recent phenomenon. Grossmont High always seems to get overlooked on the main list of contenders for both league and CIF laurels. A year ago, Steele Canyon was the clear favorite to take the Grossmont Hills League title, yet there were the Foothillers sharing a piece of the crown. Then in the playoffs, Grossmont zipped through a series of North County's best for the school's second-ever CIF championship. "I feel we always don't start out with our best foot forward," said Hillers right fielder KAYLA APPENZELLER. "But then we start to mesh together as the season goes on. By the end of the season, we look like a regular, ol' team." And Appenzeller looked like a wily, ol' veteran. Moments following an error allowed the game-tying run to score, Appenzeller delivered a 3-run double down the left-field line, the difference to shock Patrick Henry, 5-2, in Tuesday's (Mar. 27) Falcon Fiesta pool play contest. Appenzeller's blow capped a 5-run, 6th-inning rally to make a winner of freshman relief pitcher ANEVAY PEREZ. Meanwhile, the runs – all unearned – hung a loss on Patriots senior GRACE HERNANDEZ. "Grace was throwing outside pitches to everyone else, but for some reason I was getting inside pitches," noted Appenzeller. "Then on the pitch I hit, she left it hanging and a bit over the plate." The comeback saw AMANDA PORTER reach on a 1-out single, however, AUBRIE MAY's ensuing line drive to center was snagged by Patriots center fielder MEGHAN FISHER. However, the next five Foothillers reached base. HAYLEY KASDEN walked, then a grounder by JAEDA BURNETT was booted to allow Porter to score to trim the deficit to 2-1. CEL DAVILA walked to load the bases, then another grounder, this time by SARAH NICKS, was also misplayed to allow Kasden to score and tie the game before Appenzeller's big hit. In the 7th, Hernandez came to the plate as the potential game-tying run with two other Patriots already on board, but she was hit by a pitch to loaded the bases. "I wanted to pitch to her, but I thought she stuck her arm out," said Garcia. The next batter lined a shot to the gap in right-center, but Appenzeller's good jump on the ball allowed her to make the game-ending catch. "I knew Kayla would get it because she was taking a really good angle," noted Perez. "Kayla's a really good outfielder, so I knew she would catch it." As for defeating Patrick Henry, a team listed in the North County Times preseason rankings at No. 5 in the county, Perez was surprised to beat them. "They're a really good team, but I didn't know they were ranked? Wow!," Perez added. Patrick Henry mounted a 2-0 lead with single runs in the 3rd and 5th innings thanks to the bat of senior JENNIFER SCHUFF. The shortstop first doubled, scoring on a Hernandez basehit, then she singled and eventually scored on a Hernandez ground ball to the right side. As for Grossmont's future, the Hillers are one win away from a berth in the final of the Grossmont Conference Tournament, and two wins away from an appearance in the Falcon Fiesta final four. "This year, we have really young pitching, so we have to do the build-up all over again," added Appenzeller.

Granite Hills' Kaila DeWitt (right) not only shined on defense, she scored on this close play at home. (Photo by Suzy Lahitte) ADDITIONAL PHOTOS HERE

© East County Sports.com
MIRA MESA (3-28-12) — The depth of the Mira Mesa Marauders allowed a smart strategical move by Poway head coach Jim Bennet to backfire.

After the Marauders tied Tuesday's (Mar. 27) Falcon Fiesta game with two runs in the bottom of the 6th inning, the hosts still had two runners in scoring position, so Bennet elected to intentionally walk University of Arizona bound power hitter KATIYANA MAUGA.

"I can't blame him (Bennet); he had an open base and didn't want Katiyana to beat him," said Mira Mesa coach BRAD GRIFFITH. "I would've done the same thing."

Plus, Mauga, a junior shortstop, already had collected two hits for a pair of RBI, so walking her made sense. However, pitching around batters against this potent line-up proved difficult.

On a 3-2 pitch with two outs, Marauders catcher TANI LEASAU followed by drilling a grand slam to left-center field, the difference in an 8-4 decision over Poway after posting six runs in the 6th. The shot capped a 3-for-4, five RBI outing by Leasau.

"The ball got out of here quick," added Griffith. "We're lucky to have a lot of players who can really hit the ball."

The rally allowed freshman pitcher ALICIA GARCIA to collect the victory. She trailed entering the 6th after allowing four runs – all unearned – and just four basehits. With Garcia in the circle, No. 1 pitcher LANI VANTA moved over to second base, collecting two of the Marauders' 12 basehits from the leadoff spot.

It was the second comeback by Mira Mesa. They initially tied the game at 2-all in the 5th, but Poway reclaimed the advantage on a 2-run single by Chase Snell in the 6th.

Poway, which has been bidding for a Top 10 berth in the county polls after whipping Bonita Vista, 6-1, last week, fell to 5-3-1 overall.

The Eagles' Tarin Marks registered a pair of sacrifice bunts to fuel the offense past Vista. (Photo by Suzy Lahitte)

GRANITE HILLS 3, VISTA 1 – Eagles junior KIMMY TRIOLO carried a shutout into the 7th inning, punking the visiting Panthers in Tuesday's (Mar. 27) Falcon Fiesta affair.

Triolo struck out six batters without issuing a walk in spinning a 6-hitter.

Freshman right fielder KAILA DeWITT was the only player with multiple hits for either team, both contributing to the scoring.

In the 3rd, ALISSA BUDVARSON was struck by a pitch, Triolo singled, then DeWitt put Granite Hills in front with a run-scoring basehit to left-center field.

TARIN MARKS followed with a squeeze bunt to bring home Triolo, giving the Eagles a 2-0 advantage.

DeWitt then opened the 5th with a lead single and Marks put down another bunt to advance DeWitt, who came home on a VICTORIA HATHAWAY single and a NICOLE OBNEY sacrifice fly.

The Eagles' Michelle Miller (right) slides to beat the tag by Vista's third baseman. (Photo by Suzy Lahitte)

WEST HILLS 4, MT. CARMEL 0 – In a rematch from the 2010 CIFSDS Division II championship game, Wolf Pack pitcher NOELLE JOHNSON avenged the Sundevils with a dominating 10 strikeouts in spinning a 3-hit shutout in Rancho Penasquitos.

Johnson also led the way with her bat by going 3-for-4 Tuesday (Mar. 27), opening the scoring in the 3rd inning with a 2-run homer. The two-out rally saw MELISSA EGGLESTON reach with a power-slap single before Johnson hit her second homer of the season to left field.

Meanwhile, KAYCEE AQUININOGOC lifted her second home run in as many ballgames with a leadoff shot to center in the 5th. Aquininogoc (2-for-4) also doubled and scored in the 7th, coming around on a Johnson sacrifice bunt and a run-scoring basehit by CORTNEY HORNE, who went 4-for-4.

VALHALLA 2, CHRISTIAN 1 – In a match-up of young pitchers with bright futures, Norsemen sophomore ASHLEY MADARA out-dueled GABY GRABOWKSI of the Patriots to capture Tuesday's (Mar. 27) contest at Leto Field.

Madara tossed a 3-hitter to collect the victory, keeping the potent top of the Christian batting order at bay (1-for-9). She also faced the minimum number of batters through the first four innings, then later escaped jams over the final three innings to her complete-game effort.

In the 5th, Patriots catcher ANAYA TOBIASON opened with a double during a 9-pitch at-bat, but was stranded. Errors allowed Christian to place runners on third base in the 6th and 7th innings, but each time Madara stranded the potential game-tying runners.

Meanwhile, Grabowski only allowed five basehits in her six innings.

Valhalla scored early to mount its 2-0 lead.

In the 1st, designated player KAYLIE HIPWELL sent a drive to left-center field for the first of her two doubles on the afternoon. The freshman later went to right-center in the 5th.

MADISON LABSHERE followed with an RBI single to score Hipwell.

Then in the 3rd, DIONNA SMITH avenged a call which went against her. After a deep drive down the left-field line was ruled to have curved out of play before reaching the foul pole, two pitches later, the junior second baseman still registered a home run with a drive over the barrier in left-center.

WESTVIEW 8, STEELE CANYON 2 – The host Wolverines welcomed their inclusion into the county rankings in the 10th spot by whipping the No. 3 Cougars in Tuesday's (Mar. 27) Falcon Fiesta contest.

Trailing 2-0, Westview (9-2) rallied with a run in the 4th inning, then Jade Callahan added a grand slam – barely – in the 5th.

"Just two or three pitches decided a really good, close game."

Steele Canyon (8-3) opened the scoring in the 4th. Following a bunt single by KAYLIE AZEVEDO, designated player MOLLY HUTCHISON smacked a 2-run homer to right-center field. However, the Cougars registered just two additional hits off winning pitcher Kaylynn Pierce.

Monte Vista's Emma DeMars (top) and Emily Lopez registered 3 hits each in Tuesday's triumph against San Ysidro. (Photos by Don DeMars)

Meanwhile, Steele Canyon pitcher GRACE KRAMER tossed a solid 4 2/3 innings before the roof caved in. Following a pair of strikeouts, two walks and a hit batter preceded Callahan's slam.

In the 5th, Sasha Margulies (3-for-3) also homered for Westview, then Steele Canyon answered by loading the bases in the 6th but failed to score.

MONTE VISTA 15, SAN YSIDRO 3 (5 inn.) — The Monarchs raced through its entire batting order on their first trip to the plate, going on to run rule the visiting Cougars in Tuesday's (Mar. 27) non-league contest.

EMILY LOPEZ and EMMA DeMARS both batted 3-for-4, with Lopez coming up one hit short of the cycle, only missing a homer from the feat.

Lopez still delivered four RBI, while DeMars also contributed a double.

SANTANA 7, CLAIREMONT 2 — AMBER SCHISLER bombed a bases-loaded tripler in the 4th inning, powering the Sultans to a non-league, road victory Tuesday (Mar. 27).

Santana jumped on the Chieftains early, scoring three times in the 1st, capped by TARA GRENNAN's 2-run double.

Schisler tossed the first five innings for another pitching victory, while KYLIE BRASE closed out the final two innings on Clairemont.

© East County Sports.com
SPRING VALLEY (3-27-12) — With just a little bit of patience, perhaps many more of Monday's (Mar. 26) scheduled Grossmont Conference Tournament make-up games could have been played.

"Come on, it's Southern California," said Grossmont High coach JERRY LERUD. "You know the sun's going to come out."

"All you have to do is wait until noon, then tell your groundskeeper to drag the field for about a half-hour."

So when Lerud discussed the situation with Mount Miguel coach KATHLEEN HANKLA, she agreed to wait before adding to the list of postponements. Besides, the Matadors' home field, Trude Field, rests on top of a hill with excellent drainage towards the east.

The result proved doubly good for the Foothillers. After taking an 11-0, run-rule decision, they not only moved into the lead among Grossmont Hills League schools in the tournament standings, and they won't need to add to a growing list of contests to be rescheduled which could task a ballclub. Grossmont is even with Granite Hills at 3-0, but holds the runs against tiebreaker.

Two batters into the contest, the Hillers recorded all the runs they would need when AUBRIE MAY belted a solo home run to left-center field. Later in the 1st inning, WHITNEY DIBB drilled a 3-run shot to an identical spot for her first varsity homer, also scoring HAYLEY KASDEN (single) and CEL DAVILA (hit by pitch).

Meanwhile, Grossmont pitcher DANI McMILLAN tossed a 2-hit shutout for the victory. She struck out eight without issuing a walk.

By the time Mount Miguel junior NICOLE VARGAS opened the 3rd with a basehit, the Hillers already posted their 11 runs. Later in the 3rd, senior BLIME MACIAS also singled, but was thrown out attempting to extend her hit into a double.

For Grossmont, May batted 3-for-4 and scored three times. Kasden went 2-for-2, while Davila scored twice.

Helix Highlanders shortstop Chanelle Ward. (Photo by Tony Bordine)

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
SPRING VALLEY (3-24-12) — A pair of East County programs seeking to change directions with new coaching staffs collided in Friday's (Mar. 23) Grossmont Conference Tournament, with each demonstrating that better days are coming.

Among the two schools, Helix showed they are a few steps above the curve on the path to greater success, enough to squeeze out a 2-1 victory over host Monte Vista.

"We're working on different things in practice," said Highlanders co-captain CHANELLE WARD. "For example, we're working a lot more in the (batting) cage on our hitting."

"It's good to do things differently every once in a while."

Ward was directly involved both times when Helix scored runs in the 1st and 2nd innings, the difference in the Scotties' triumph.

Following a double and stolen base by Helix leadoff batter KEANA NAKATA to start the ballgame, Ward walked then took off for second base in a double-steal. Drawing the throw, Nakata scampered home for a 1-0 lead.

An inning later, Ward came up with the bases loaded with two outs. With the Monarchs' third baseman playing deep, Ward sent a roller up the line. But when the ball hit the base and popped high into the air, by the time the defender saw the ball land in her glove, all four runners advanced on the infield single for a 2-0 lead.

Interestingly, Ward also hit the bag on another grounder in the 7th for another scratch single.

Meanwhile, an improving defense made several plays to back the pitching of Nakata, who tossed a 3-hitter. Included were three scoops at first base by MARISSA HAMPTON to prevent throwing errors.

"Marissa can handle her glove at first," noted Ward. "Defense is an area where the entire team has improved from last year."

Monte Vista countered after EMILY LOPEZ belted a deep double to left-center field to open the 4th. She came around to score on consecutive ground balls by EMILY STANFILL and EMMA DeMARS (RBI).

"Practices are a lot different, with a lot more intensity," noted Lopez, who hopes to become a chemist. "And since we have less pitching, the different coaches have been really working on our hitting."

Lopez also registered the catch of the day, racing deep into the right-center field gap to rob Helix' SAMANTHA CUNNINGHAM with a running grab, retaining possession of the ball after colliding with right fielder SAVANAH INDIE.

With the victory, the Scotties moved to 6-5, while Monte Vista slipped to 4-5,

No, Granite Hills outfielder Alissa Budvarson will not make the spectacular catch, but she will knock the ball back to prevent an El Capitan home run to maintain a shutout by Eagles pitcher Kimmy Triolo. (Photo by Suzy Lahitte) ADDITIONAL PHOTOS HERE

GRANITE HILLS 3, EL CAPITAN 0 – In a perfect example demonstrating how well the Eagles can play when all three segments are performing, pitcher KIMMY TRIOLO escaped several jams to post the shutout over the visiting Vaqueros in Friday's (Mar. 23) Grossmont Conference Tournament game.

The victory, coupled with a pair of runs allowed by West Hills, leaves the teams at 3-0 in the annual event, with the first tie-breaker (run allowed) also now all even at 5 runs each.

Triolo actually took the low road to blank El Capitan, allowing 11 baserunners on three hits and eight walks. However, some timely strikeouts – she registered 11 K's – and a couple of nice defensive stops kept the Vaq Pack off the scoreboard.

"I feel we're hitting a little bit better than last year," noted Eagles head coach ERIN COYNE. "But we're also getting better pitching and defense -- we're putting all three elements together."

On offense, the Eagles placed runners in scoring position three times, then received key hits on two occasions to score their runs.

In the 2nd inning, Triolo bombed a double, moving to third base on a passed ball. Senior TARIN MARKS followed with an RBI single to left-center field. Marks then stole a base, coming home on an identical basehit by catcher KRISTINA LAHITTE.

And the crowd goes wild

Granite Hills senior Tarin Marks is safe at home with a big slide to the delight of Eagles fans. (Photo by Suzy Lahitte)

The triumph again raised Granite Hills over the  .500 mark at 5-4 overall. El Capitan slipped to 6-3.

VALHALLA 17, MOUNT MIGUEL 0 (5 inn.) – The Norsemen started an infield composed entirely of sophomores and freshmen, yet still run-ruled the host Matadors after scoring 11 times in the 5th inning of Friday's (Mar. 23) Grossmont Conference Tournament game at Trude Field.

Among the underclassmen was freshman KAYLIE HIPWELL, who tossed a 1-hit shutout in her first career start. She struck out eight batters against two walks and a pair of hit batsmen.

Valhalla registered 16 hits, including three by frosh DANIELLE UY, an outfielder who gained her first start at third base. Uy also reached on a walk, scoring all fours times. Hipwell matched Uy with three hits and three RBI.

Replacing Uy in center field was sophomore SOFIA MONTES in her varsity starting debut, also posting three RBI in a 2-for-4 outing. Meanwhile, frosh KYRA AYALA started at second base for the second straight ballgame, going 3-for-3 with a pair of runs scored.

For the Matadors, BLIME MACIAS registered the lone hit by beating out a grounder to shortstop in the 3rd. Macias played both catcher and shortstop as Mount Miguel performed better on defense by moving some players to more comfortable positions.

"CLAUNITTA HARMON was back at third base and was solid with three attempts and three putouts," said head coach KATHLEEN HANKLA. "And NICOLE VARGAS, who was back at shortstop instead of pitching, was also 3-for-3 on defense."

When Mount Miguel placed runners on base, they were 3-for-3 in stealing bases, too.

WEST HILLS 11, EL CAJON VALLEY 2 – The Braves received six walks in the 1st inning, including 16 consecutive balls called against one of the county's top pitching staffs at one point, a stretch which saw a pair of runs forced home.

No one is saying anyone was homering, but the situation is indeed curious.

Nevertheless, the Wolf Pack scored in every inning except the 5th to claim this Grossmont Conference Tournament game. But the runs allowed Friday (Mar. 23) definitely affected the entire event. With a high probability of a tie for first place among Grossmont Hills League schools, the first tie-breaker is runs allowed, with West Hills falling into a tie with Granite Hills at five runs allowed each.

Grossmont, which did not play its scheduled contest at Santana because of the lack of umpires due to a scheduling mix-up, has allowed just one run, but is only 2-0 in pool play and technically in third place since West Hills and Granite Hills are each 3-0.

Plus, with last Monday's tournament rainouts slated to be played this coming Monday – with more rain in the forecast – this tournament may take a while to be completed.

For West Hills, KAYCEE AQUININOGOC, who gained the start in center field, went 2-for-4 with a walk, scoring three times. She also stole three bases to raise her season total to 15 in 10 outings.

Meanwhile, corner infielder KAYLA ARAUJO, who started at third base before moving to first base, was a perfect 4-for-4 at the plate, scoring twice. In addition, KATIE BYRD played three different positions (2B, 3B and CF), batting 2-for-5 with two runs and an RBI.

Eastern League
Fallbrook, which opened the season at 5-0, dropped its second straight ballgame to an Eastern League opponent. Following a 3-1 setback to Patrick Henry on Wednesday, Mira Mesa erupted for four runs in the 1st inning on Friday (Mar. 24), whipping the host Warriors, 9-4.

LANI VANTA slugged a home run for the Marauders (8-2-1).

Meanwhile, Rancho Bernardo (8-2) posted its third consecutive shutout while extending a winning streak to seven straight after blanking visiting Scripps Ranch, 5-0, at Cypress Canyon Park. The Falcons fell to 3-5 overall.

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
RANCHO SAN DIEGO (3-23-12) — For at least one day, youth has been served.

A pair of fastpitch programs which started four freshmen and a sophomore each came away with victories in Thursday's (Mar. 22) action. Valhalla overcame an early deficit to down Monte Vista in a Grossmont Conference Tournament contest, while Patrick Henry blanked visiting University City.

VALHALLA 6, MONTE VISTA 1 — The Norsemen broke through with their first GCT triumph this season by skating past the Monarchs at Leto Field.

One of the key freshmen making a difference was center fielder DANIELLE UY, who scored the game-tying run in the 1st inning, then knocked in the go-ahead runs in the 2nd when Valhalla tallied four times to pull away.

Uy opened with a leadoff walk, then stole second base. First baseman KIKI BROWN reached on an error to put runners on the corners, with Uy coming home on a double steal.

An inning later, Uy delivered again.

Following consecutive basehits by ABIGAIL METSCH and LADYSARA FEDERICO, KYRA AYALA placed a sacrifice bunt to move the runners into scoring position -- indeed, all three are frosh.

Uy followed with a 2-run double to bring home Metsch and Federico for a 3-1 lead. Then senior leadership took over when Brown, a co-captain, launched a 2-run homer to left-center field to double the lead.

"We are developing, but with a lot of talent and enthusiasm," said Brown.

Monte Vista, fielding several players banged up at a recent Powder Puff football game while others were absent, still scratched across an early run.

CHELSEA BALAJADIA started the ballgame with a walk, took second base on a passed ball, then third on a ground out. MEGAN SEARS followed with a grounder through the right side. Although she was thrown out at first base by the right fielder, she still collected the RBI as Balajadia scored.

PATRICK HENRY 2, UNIVERSITY CITY 0 — The Patriots, which have boosted up to six underclassmen at a time on their batting card, rode the arm of senior GRACE HERNANDEZ in Thursday's (Mar. 22) blanking of the visiting Centurions.

The victory extended Patrick Henry's winning streak to three straight.

Hernandez allowed eight hits and a walk, but kept UC at bay with seven strikeouts. Included was a bases-loaded jam in the 2nd inning, striking out the next two batters to keep the contest scoreless.

Immediately after her pair of whiffs, Patrick Henry responded by getting on the scoreboard

Sophomore catcher RYLIE RUCKLE opened the home-half of the second with a double, moving to third base on a KELLY JERTBERG basehit. JENNIFER SCHUFF followed with a run-scoring basehit, which turned out to be the game-winning RBI.

In the 5th, a 2-out rally allowed the Patriots to double their lead.

KODY FOLKINS and Hernandez struck for consecutive singles, with Folkins coming home on a double by freshman SIERRA ALTMEYER.

SANTANA 4, SCRIPPS RANCH 3 (8 inn.) — The Sultans allowed a 3-0 lead to slip away, then rebounded to win on a tie-breaking basehit by ALICIA ZUNIGA in the 8th inning to stop the host Falcons in Thursday's (Mar. 22) important non-league contest,

Junior catcher KAYTI GRABLE, who staked Santana to a 3-0 advantage just three batters into the game with her first home run of the season, opened the 8th with a walk.

AMBER SCHISLER singled to right, with both runners advancing on a TARA GRENNAN bunt. Despite an open base, Scripps Ranch elected to pitch to Zuniga, but the strategy backfired when Zuniga went with an outside pitch and singled into right field.

The Falcons answered with a 2-out walk and stolen base in the 8th, but Schisler capped her complete-game victory with a ground ball to shortstop.

Schisler, coming off a perfect game, tossed four innings of no-hit ball before Scripps got to her for a leadoff single in the 5th, leading to a run. The Falcons then scored twice in the 7th to force extra innings.

WEST HILLS 2, BONITA VISTA 1 — In a battle of Top 10 teams, Wolf Pack right fielder KAYCEE AQUININOGOC ripped a basehit through a drawn-in infield in the bottom of the 7th, scoring JAYMEE BUSH for the walk-off victory and handing the Barons their second straight setback.

The bottom of the West Hills batting order started the winning rally.

No. 8 and 9 batters Bush and JESSICA BEAN both singled, with Bean's bunt allowed to roll down the first-base line untouched by Scripps Ranch hoping it would roll foul. Meanwhile, Bush took advantage of the rolling ball and took third base to place runners on the corners.

Aquinincog then discarded the slap and drilled the ball past the unsuspecting infield to lift the Wolf Pack record to 7-2.

Bonita Vista needed just three batters to open the scoring.

In the 1st, Barons leadoff batter Hannah Flippen singled and stole a base. A ground ball advanced the junior shortstop to third, coming home on a Celinna Cosio sacrifice fly.

West Hills answered in the 5th when Bean, the designated player, started it off by lifting the ball over the infield to right for a basehit. A push bunt by MELISSA EGGLESTON, a walk and a CORTNEY HORNE single through the left side tied the ballgame.

The Barons runners-up to Torrey Pines at the Cougar Classic, fell to 5-3-1 after also falling to Poway, 6-1, this week.

How perfect is perfect? Santana's Schisler retires all 15 batters; Foothillers' Crisci owns different plans By Nick Pellegrino © East County Sports.com SANTEE (3-22-12) — Some ballgames can be considered more perfect than others. The most common way is to retire every batter you face, just like Santana High ace AMBER SCHISLER, who retired all 15 batters she faced in an 11-0, run-rule triumph over Helix. Then there are other paths to perfection, especially when it comes to a difficult decision by a performer from Grossmont. SANTANA 11, HELIX 0 (5 inn.) – Schisler needs to thank Sultans right fielder KYLIE BRASE in order for her to achieve perfection against the visiting Highlanders. The Scotties send a pair of ground balls through the right side of the infield, balls which normally go for basehits. However, both balls were collected by Brase, who fired to first baseman TARA GRENNAN for '9-3' putouts in Grossmont Conference Tournament play Wednesday (Mar. 21). "Amber dictated the game by always getting ahead of the hitters," noted Santana coach JOHN FAILLA. "She went to three balls on just a couple of hitters by hitting her spots so consistently." Schisler struck out four batters, retiring the 11 remaining Helix batters on grounders. Earlier in the season, she also struck out four in a no-hit victory against San Pasqual at the Cougar Classic. In addition, Schisler belted a 2-run homer in the 5th inning, also bringing home catcher KAYTI GRABLE (double). Schisler was preparing in the dugout for a sixth inning of work, but Santana scored in the bottom of the 5th to invoke the run rule. Ending the ballgame was freshman MacKENZIE REYNOLDS, who garnered her first interscholastic hit in walkoff fashion with a 2-run double to left field. Foothillers pitcher Megan Crisci finished with four perfect innings before vacating Wednesday's GCT triumph over ECVHS. (Photo by Steve Crisci) GROSSMONT 10, EL CAJON VALLEY 0 (5 inn.) – Some ballplayers also possess priorities when it comes to future life skills. And Foothillers pitcher MEGAN CRISCI proved it in what, for some, was a jaw-dropping decision. Following four innings of pitching, Crisci was working on a perfect game after retiring all 12 batters she faced. And when Grossmont added four runs in the bottom of the 4th inning, the senior only needed to get three additional batters out for a perfect game. "But Megan said she had to go," said Hillers coach JERRY LERUD. "She had something more important that she had to do." With the ballgame's outcome never in doubt, Crisci packed her gear and headed to a local hospital, where she is serving an internship. So the call went to DANI McMILLAN to enter and close out the Grossmont Conference Tournament triumph. The offense saw shortstop AUBRIE MAY, who went 3-for-3 against the Braves, slug a solo homer in the 1st inning, when the team leaped to a quick 2-0 lead. The Hillers then scored four times in the 3rd and 4th frames, as May and HAYLEY KASDEN scored runs in all three rallies. "The top of the order got on and scored six times," added Lerud. "That's the way it's supposed to be.” El Cajon Valley finished with two hits, as Merlinda Lopez and Miranda Mullens each singled in the 5th.

© East County Sports.com
LAKESIDE (3-22-12) — El Capitan High senior KASSIE BATTAGLIA broke open a close contest with a key 2-run single, helping to support a 3-hit shutout by DELANIE GOURLEY in a blanking of visiting Valhalla, 4-0, in Wednesday's (Mar. 21) Grossmont Conference Tournament contest.

The victory kept El Capitan within a game of Santana in the pool of Grossmont Valley League ballclubs.

Battaglia, who batted 2-for-3, drove in RACHEL AUCHENBACH (safe on error) and C.J. MERRILL (single), who were both in scoring position following a Gourley basehit which loaded the bases.

Auchenbach ignited El Cap's offense with a 1st-inning triple, coming home on a NICOLE BALINGER basehit for a 1-0 lead. A second run came home on an error.

Meanwhile, Gourley registered 14 strikeouts against just one walk to gain the victory. She has 64 K's in her last 4 starts.

Valhalla received a basehit by DIONNA SMITH in the 2nd, but was stranded on third base. An inning later, KAILEY HIPWELL, the niece of 2001 Grossmont North League player of the year MARGARET HIPWELL of Grossmont, was left on base after reaching on a bunt. Meanwhile, KIKI BROWN also singled, but no one could score her from third.

The Norsemen also had a runner called out for leaving first base too early.

Granite Hills' Erica Vasquez (11) beats the throw to second base in downing Monte Vista, 11-5. (Photo by Suzy Lahitte) ADDITIONAL PHOTOS HERE

GRANITE HILLS 11, MONTE VISTA 5 – Eagles freshman KAILA DeWITT registered her first career pitching victory, not getting tabbed for any earned runs until the 7th inning in Wednesday's (Mar. 21) Grossmont Conference Tournament triumph over the visiting Monarchs.

DeWitt opened the contest with four shutout innings before Monte Vista answered with three unearned runs in the 5th. By then, however, Granite Hills already mounted a comfortable 11-0 cushion.

"Kaila got a little tired toward the end, but that was a really strong game for her," noted Eagles coach ERIN COYNE about DeWitt, who also batted 2-for-5 with an RBI.

DeWitt's strong effort allowed No. 1 pitcher KIMMY TRIOLO to get a day off and play in center field. However, the junior still contributed by going 3-for-4 with a pair of doubles and a walk at the plate, driving in four runs. Included was a 2-run double in the 2nd, plus run-scoring hits in the 3rd and 4th frames.

In addition, senior shortstop KATY CREWS went 3-for-4 with a double, scoring three times.

Granite Hills batter Alissa Budvarson places a successful sacrifice bunt against Monte Vista. (Photo by Suzy Lahitte)

WEST HILLS 13, MOUNT MIGUEL 0 (5 inn.) – Wolf Pack pitchers MELISSA EGGLESTON and JAYMEE BUSH combined for a 2-hitter in Wednesday's (Mar. 21) Grossmont Conference Tournament shutout of the visiting Matadors.

The number "2" was all over Eggleston's game line. On offense, batting in the No. 2 spot in the order, Eggleston posted two hits, with two runs scored and a pair (better known as "two") of stolen bases. She also pitched two no-hit innings, but after allowing a pair of Mount Miguel basehits and a walk, Bush entered to put out the fire.

Finding the bases loaded and no one out, Bush quickly registered three straight strikeouts to quell the scoring threat, going on to retire all nine batters she faced.

"Katie is now pitching the way she did last year before getting hurt," said West Hills coach MIKE APPLEBAUM. "And it was a good start for Melissa, too. She got it going with two strikeouts."

More deuces wild.

CORTNEY HORNE homered in the 2nd inning when the Pack pushed their lead to 7-0. Her 2-run shot to center field capped a 3-for-3, three RBI performance before Applebaum cleared the bench.

In addition, REBECCA KING, a senior right fielder, batted 2-for-3, including an RBI double in the 4th.

For the Matadors, YESSICA BECERRA opened the 3rd with a basehit, followed by a double by BLIME MACIAS.

PATRICK HENRY 3, FALLBROOK 1 – Patriots senior pitcher GRACE HERNANDEZ allowed just one basehit to shut down the visiting and previously undefeated Warriors (5-1) in a Falcon Fiesta pool play contest held Wednesday (Mar. 21) in San Carlos.

Hernandez struck out four and walked just one, facing just two batters above the minimum in another stellar performance. She was also treated to an early lead when Patrick Henry erupted for three runs in their initial trip to the plate.

Freshman outfielder MEGHAN FISHER hit the very first Fallbrook pitch for a line drive at the third baseman, although both teams ruled it an error. KODY FULKINS then put down a sacrifice bunt, but when the Fallbrook third baseman air-mailed the throw to first base down the right-field line, both Patriots took three bases for a fast 1-0 advantage.

Two batters later, SIERRA ALTMEYER, one of five freshmen in the Pats' starting lineup, just missed a home run, settling for an RBI double.

"Sierra is really strong and just smoked the ball," said head coach DON SHAFFER. "But it was such a line drive, it hit like two inches below the top of the fence. It was a shot."

And when ALLY FAILLACE followed with another RBI double, Hernandez was able to coast with a 3-run lead and hand Fallbrook pitcher Brooke Koran (4-1) her first setback of the season.

Fallbrook's lone hit and run came in the 4th. Senior KAYLIE DREW led off with a single, stole second base, advanced to third on a ground ball, then scored when her sister, sophomore HAILEY DREW lifted a sacrifice fly.

In addition, Warriors right fielder Lizzy Hutzler was credited with a stunning, diving catch to rob a Patriots batter.

MIRA MESA 9, EASTLAKE 5 – Due to a coincidence in scheduling, the Marauders were given a road game at Eastlake for Tuesday's Falcon Fiesta contest long after Wednesday's (Mar. 21) non-league was already scheduled.

Nevertheless, both contests finished with identical 9-5 finals, which may make future record-keepers dazed and confused when reviewing the records.

And in a repeat effort, Mira Mesa slugger KATIYANA MAUGA bombed another late-inning home run, this time sending a 2-run shot down the left-field line in the 6th inning in the Marauders' wire-to-wire victory.

"The ball shot right down the line and landed well beyond the fence," said head coach BRAD GRIFFITH. "She's just starting to warm up this season, pounding the ball."

Mauga also added a run-scoring single, finishing with three RBI against the Titans. Meanwhile, LANI VANTA added three hits and scored twice.

Mira Mesa shot to a quick 3-0 lead before Eastlake received its first chance at the plate.

Vanta and Mauga sandwiched basehits around a Titans error to load the bases. TANI LEASAU followed with a grounder to the right side to open the scoring, then QUIRISA MAUGA followed with a 2-run single.

Leading 4-2, the Marauders added four additional runs in the 5th, two coming home courtesy of a basehit by AMBER CORDERO.

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
EASTLAKE (3-21-12) — Buoyed by a 7th-inning home run by KATIYANA MAUGA, Mira Mesa High scored six times over the final two innings to rally past host Eastlake, 9-5, in Tuesday's (Mar. 20) Falcon Fiesta contest in the South Bay.

The Maruaders (6-2-1) blazed back from a 4-3 deficit by scoring four times in the 6th, with the rally starting with two outs and no one on base.

Cordero recently made a college commitment to New Mexico Highlands.

The Titans (2-4) tried to rally in the bottom of the 7th, as older sister Dylan "Dee" Christensen, a senior left-handed center fielder, also went deep. However, Mira Mesa pitcher LANI VANTA, who only allowed two earned runs all afternoon on the solo homers, retired the final two batters to earn the victory.

The two ballclubs meet again Wednesday in a previously scheduled non-league game, also slated for Eastlake's diamond at 3:30 p.m.

Granite Hills' Brooklyn Schwen (in white) reaches for the bag in time before Ramona first baseman Julie Ward applies the tag. Ramona won, 2-0. (Photo by Suzy Lahitte) ADDITIONAL PHOTOS HERE

Bulldogs sophomore Kailey Hill was challenged by a fastball from Eagles pitcher KIMMY TRIOLO, sending it over the left-field fence for a 1st-inning home run.

An inning later, Amber Davis sent a drive to right field which eluded the diving attempt by Granite Hills' right fielder, with Davis circling the bases for an inside-the-park homer and a 2-0 advantage for the Lady Dawgs.

Meanwhile, Hill struck out 11 Eagles in spinning a 2-hit shutout for 10th-ranked Ramona (4-1-1). Triolo recorded 7 strikeouts for Granite Hills (3-4).

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (3-17-12) — Three weeks into the girls fastpitch season – "softball" is so 20th Century – there's a clear frontrunner among a stellar crop of newcomers to the Grossmont Conference scene in Grossmont High third baseman KATHERINE TREGO.

"She's just a strong kid with quick hands," said Foothillers coach JERRY LERUD. "And she plays solid defense at third base – and Katherine's getting ever stronger."

Grossmont High's Hayley Kasden (top) slides into home with the game-winning run (top), courtesy of a double by Katherine Trego (bottom on left, 20). (Photos by Steve Crisci)

And for the second time this season, Trego delivered the key, game-winning hit.

Facing El Capitan standout DELANIE GOURLEY, Trego belted a walk-off RBI double as Grossmont scored twice in the bottom of the 7th inning to shock the Vaqueros, 2-1, in Friday's (Mar. 16) Grossmont Conference Tournament ballgame.

Trego's winner followed a game-tying basehit by CEL DEVILA, both coming with two outs and El Capitan one batter away from a 1-0 win over the reigning SDCIF Division I champions.

AMANDA PORTER started the rally with a 1-out single, then stole second base. Gourley then registered a strikeout on AUBRIE MAY, Grossmont's top hitter, moving in position for the victory.

However, second baseman HAYLEY KASDEN walked, Devila singled to score Porter, then Trego followed with a drive to left-center field.

The top of the Grossmont batting order played havoc with Gourley all afternoon, but Gourley managed to escape on three previous occasions.

Porter and May both singled in the 1st, then the pair both reached in the 3rd on an error and a basehit. Both times they were stranded. Then in the 5th, No.9 hitter WHIT DIBB singled, Porter put down a sacrifice bunt, then May walked, yet again had nothing to show for it.

"Delanie kept wiggling her way out of it," added Lerud. "She's that good."

El Capitan snapped the pitcher's duel with a 5th-inning run against Grossmont pitcher ANEVAY PEREZ, who tossed a 4-hitter. However, three of those hits produced the visitor's lone run.

Vaqueros freshman shortstop SAMMY LOZANO bounced the ball past third base for a lead single, with designated hitter MARISSA CUEVAS and second baseman RACHEL ACHENBACK also registering basehits to load the bases.

C.J. MERRILL, who has also been swinging a hot bat like Trego this season, then lifted a sacrifice fly to centerfield to plate Lozano.

GOurley finished with 14 strikeouts, giving her 50 in her last three contests.

SANTANA 6, VALHALLA 1 – For the second straight outing, Sultans pitcher AMBER SCHISLER tossed a 2-hitter for another Grossmont Conference Tournament victory. The only difference, on Thursday (Mar. 16), she only went six innings, yielding to KYLIE BRASE, who pitched a shutout 7th inning to make Santana the lone undefeated Grossmont Valley League school in the annual event. Schisler struck out six batters

The entire Sultans batting order contributed, as only KENDRA KUPER and ARIEL RASMUSSEN (each 2-for-3) registered more than one hit.

Santana scored three times in the 2nd, the first two on a triple to right by Brase, bringing home ALICIA ZUNIGA (hit by pitch) and Kuper (walk). Brase then came home on a Rasmussen basehit.

In the 4th, Kuper drilled a triple to right, scoring on an ALEX BREIDT basehit to center. Rasmussen later added her second run-scoring single for a 5-0 lead.

The only Norsemen run came on a home run by freshman DANIELLE UY, who sent a drive to straight-away center in the 6th inning. Meanwhile, senior KIKI BROWN registered a pair of hits for Valhalla (3-2), which saw its 3-game winning streak snapped.

Santana added a run in the 7th after KAYTI GRABLE slugged a lead triple to left-center, scoring on a Schisler basehit to center.

HELIX 15, MOUNT MIGUEL 0 (5 inn.) – MARISSA HAMPTON gained the start in the pitching circle in place of KEANA NAKATA, yet both were still key in the Highlanders' Grossmont Conference Tournament victory Friday (Mar. 16) at Trude Field. Hampton spun a 3-hit shutout, while Nakata ignited a 5-run rally to open the scoring in Helix’ first trip to the plate.

Hampton only struck out one, yet coaxed a series of ground balls to post her shutout. She walked just one.

The Scotties only needed two batters to score after Nakata reached on an error, stole second base, then was singled home by CHANELLE WARD. The team repeated the scenario as Ward stole a base, then came off on a ball hit by SYDNI TOILOLO.

The outburst was capped by a SEETIA NOA walk and a 2-run single by DESIRAE BORDINE.

Hampton and Nakata added RBI basehits in the 3rd, then pinch-hitter STEPHANIE McKENZIE registered her first career RBI in the 3rd on a bases-loaded walk.

Ward finished the contest with three hits, two runs and a pair of steals. The Highlanders also received hits from SARA GONZALES and TEEGAN GARDNER.

Mount Miguel earned an early opportunity to stay in the ballgame in the 1st when pitcher ANTONIA GARCIA walked, then first baseman ALIYAH CHAVEZ doubled to place a pair of runners in scoring position, but Hampton escaped the jam.

"Antonia has been our rock," head coach KATHLEEN HANKLA noted. "She has pitched back-to-back games with little to no rest. Hurt, and fatigued, she didn't quit and the team is grateful for her."

The other hit by the Matadors was registered by CATHERINE QUIJADA with a 3rd-inning single.

WEST HILLS 13, MONTE VISTA 3 (5 inn.) – Just like Helix head coach EMILY KOWLASKI, Wolf Pack mentor MIKE APPLEBAUM gave his No. 1 pitcher, NOELLE JOHNSON, a day off for Friday's (Mar. 16) second round of the Grossmont Conference Tournament, giving some lightly utilized resources an opportunity in the circle.

"We gave MELISSA EGGLESTON and JAYMEE BUSH a chance today," said Applebaum. "Both haven't pitched much lately, but you always need to be ready in case something happens, so we gave them a chance."

Eggleston, who had a 6-3 record and posted the third-best ERA among East County pitchers behind Johnson a year ago, had some troubles in the opening inning. So Bush, who hasn't pitched in more than a year after breaking her wrist in club ball last summer, was summoned. Bush pitched well, allowing just one earned run in five innings of work to gain the victory.

"There was one scary moment when Jaymee was batting and was hit by a pitch in her (previously broken) wrist," the coach recalled. "Fortunately, she was alright."

Eggleston also contributed on other ways. After getting relocated to center field, she batted 3-for-4 with an RBI and scored three times. Meanwhile, CORTNEY HORNE, who received a break from catching and was the designated player, went 4-for-4 with a double at the plate.

In addition, KAYCEE AQUININGOC batted 2-for-3 plus a walk, stealing four bases to give her 11 for the season. Middle infielder KATIE BYRD, who played at both second base and shortstop, and third baseman KAYLA AURAJO each went 3-for-4, with Byrd scoring twice and Aurajo driving home a pair of runs.

Granite Hills second baseman Brianna Tyseling (right), moments after snaring a low line drive, throws the ball for a game-ending double play. (Photo by Suzy Lahitte) ADDITIONAL PHOTOS HERE

The only El Cajon Valley baserunner saw KAMI ROJAS hit a tapper to the right of Triolo. Depending on how you score the play, some thought Rojas was safe when Triolo spiked the throw to first base (error), while others thought she beat the throw anyway (infield single). Rojas then took second base on a passed ball.

Whether Triolo finished with a no-hitter or not, she did face the minimum number of batters when the ensuing batter, NOELLE PONTIUS, sent a low liner to Granite Hills second baseman BRIANNA TYSELING, who snared the ball then tossed it to the shortstop covering second base for a game-ending double play.

Triolo also aided her cause by batting 4-for-4 and scoring each time.

In addition, left fielder BROOKLYN SCHWEN batted 3-for-4 with a double and four RBI, while KATY CREWS and VICTORIA HATHAWAY each went 2-for-2, with Crews scoring twice for the Eagles.

© East County Sports.com
SKYLINE (3-16-12) — The turnaround of the Helix Highlanders continues.

Sparked by a 2-run homer from senior SAMANTHA CUNNINGHAM, the Scotties completed a sweep of their tournament pool with Thursday's (Mar. 15) 8-6 decision over host Morse, advancing to Saturday's championship round of the Warhawk-Friar Classic.

Helix' opponent in the semifinals has yet to be determined, but for the time being that's okay for a program which has posted just three winning seasons – two by a mere single game – over the past decade under a parade of different coaches.

A pair of plays at second base go the way of Helix in Thursday's triumph at Helix. Top: Sydni Toilolo (11) steals second base. Bottom: Second baseman Clarissa Smith (9) records the fielder's choice out. (Photos by Tony Bordine)

"We've played really well throughout the whole tournament and are very excited to advance to the title round," said first-year coach EMILY KOWALSKI. "It's a great step for this program and shows what a bright future we have ahead of us."

No one is yet predicting any CIF crowns – the closest was a runner-up finish to Hilltop in 1976 – yet one can still attest to the development of a ballclub which as recently as 2010 won a mere four ballgames the entire season.

Helix downed another improving side in Morse, which saw its 4-game winning streak stopped by pitcher KEANA NAKATA. The junior allowed just five hits and a walk to gain the victory. Nakata also opened the offensive assault for the Highlanders, opening the contest with a double en route to posting three runs in the 1st inning.

Nakata moved to third base on a SYDNI TOILOLO basehit, then Cunningham started her big game with an RBI single. SEETIA NOA, the team's only other senior, also drove in a run with a grounder to the right side.

In the 3rd, Cunningham sent her blast to left field, also bringing home Toilolo (single, stolen base) to make it 5-1.

The Tigers crept back with three runs in the 4th, but Helix immediately countered with a pair of markers in the 5th. Basehits by CHANELLE WARD, Toilolo and Cunningham loaded the bases, followed by an RBI single for Noa, then DESIRAE BORDINE lifted a sacrifice fly.

Noa capped her 3-for-4 outing with her second double, coming with two outs in the 7th. Bordine singled her in for her second RBI. Noa was joined by Toilolo and Cunningham in each going 3-for-4.

UPDATE: Final Four pairings for the championship round of the Warhawk-Friar Classic have been determined. No. 1 seed Del Norte will meet Fallbrook, while No. 3 Helix will play tournament host Madison at 11:15 a.m. The third-place game will follow, then the title game is slated for 3:45 p.m.

EL CAPITAN 5, FRANCIS PARKER 1 – Oh, no! Vaqueros pitcher DELANIE GOURLEY must be losing it.

Following a 19-strikeout performance on Wednesday, the junior followed up with "only" 17 K's on Thursday (Mar. 15), leading El Cap past the visiting Lancers in Warhawk-Friar Classic action.

In addition, the productive bats of the Vaqueros continue to resound.

"I'm very happy with them right now," said veteran coach JOE COTA. "They're more selective at the plate and not just swinging at anything once they get two strikes on them."

Leading the cause of late is C.J. MERRILL, who drove in the first of five runs in the 4th when the Vaqueros posted all of their runs.

"C.J. needed to catch for us to start the season because CINDY GONZALES was hurt," noted Cota. "But she's a brick wall and can play anywhere but pitcher for us. C.J. can really smack the ball."

Merrill's double to the wall brought home RACHEL AUCHENBACK (lead single) to open the scoring, as El Capitan registered eight hits in the inning.

A single by Gourley was followed by an RBI double by KATIE CARMICHAEL. Then a basehit by CASSIE BATTAGLIA was answered by a run-scoring double by Gonzales. Finally, a pair of singles by NICOLE BALLINGER and sophomore MARISSA CUEVAS produced the final run.

In other El Capitan news, an opponent in Saturday's Hilltop Tournament (weather permitting) has been replaced. Morse dropped out of the event and was replaced by El Cajon Valley.

STEELE CANYON 5, MAR VISTA 4 – KYLIE STEAGALL posted the biggest clutch hitting display in her brief career with the Cougars, registering both the tying and go-ahead hits to shock the visiting Mariners in Hilltop Tournament pool play action Thursday (Mar. 15).

Steagall, who bats third for Steele Canyon, went 3-for-4, including a 3-run homer in the 5th, then a run-scoring basehit in the 6th to bring home ALYSSA MASCARI (single, stolen bases) with what proved to be the winning run..

Trailing 4-1, RACHEL BEASLEY opened the 5th by beating the throw to first base on a tapper fielded by the pitcher, then stole second base. KAYLIE AZEVEDO walked, then Steagall pumped a drive to center field to tie the contest.

The 6th inning started in similar fashion with another scratch single, this time by Mascari. She promptly stole second, then scored while running with two outs when Steagall dinked the ball over the head of the shortstop.

JESSICA THOMPSON batted 3-for-4 with a pair of doubles, supporting the complete-game pitching of BRITTANY HOPKINS, who was tagged for four unearned runs in the 3rd.

The Cougars opened the scoring in the 2nd when ANNA KODELASHVILI hit a lead single, moved to second on an AMANDA HARTNETT bunt, took third on a wild pitch, then scored on a ground single through the hole to left field by PRISCILLA FITCH.

MIRA MESA 11, CANYON CREST 1 – In a non-league contest Thursday (Mar. 15), catcher TANI LEASAU and designated player AMBER CORDERO each belted 3-run home runs to hammer the Hawks. Both players are seniors.

The Marauders (5-2-1) have now captured four straight ballgames and are undefeated in five since a 3-3 draw (time limit) against 3rd-ranked Bonita Vista at the Cougar Classic.

POWAY 8, GROSSMONT 0 – In a rematch from last season's SDCIF Division I title game captured by the Foothillers, the host Titans gained a slight measure of revenge with an 8-0 pasting of Grossmont in Thursday's (Mar. 15) Falcon Fiesta affair.

Li'anna Martinez hit a 3-run homer for Poway, supporting the complete-game shutout by Brianna Parkes, who struck out six in tossing a 5-hitter.

Still, when it counts over the past 20 years, Poway owns a mere 3-6 composite record against East County schools during SDCIF playoff competition.

OLYMPIAN 7, EL CAJON VALLEY 5 – No report from the Braves on this Hilltop Tournament contest.

Grossmont High's Cel Davila (left) will score, but will teammate Aubrie May (rounding third base) make it? CLICK the photo to find out. (Photos by Steve Crisci)

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (3-15-12) — The first salvo in the battle for the CIF San Diego Section Division III championship was fired by Santana High.

In the annual battle for the City of Santee championship, the Sultans avenged a loss in last season's inaugural trophy clash by riding the arm of junior pitcher AMBER SCHISLER. Pitching against West Hills’ NOELLE JOHNSON, Schisler posted the better results in tossing a 2-hitter in the Sultans' 3-1 verdict over the Wolf Pack to open the Grossmont Conference Tournament at Sportsplex USA.

"Amber was great at hitting her spots all game," said Santana catcher KAYTI GRABLE. "She may throw as hard as Noelle, but she gets outs by being very consistent with her pitches."

Early on, Schisler matched Johnson in strikeouts, registered five K's in the first two innings She whiffed only two more the rest of the way, yet allowed just one bloop single over the final six innings.

Meanwhile, Johnson registered 13 strikeouts, but two of the five hits she allowed went for extra bases, each figuring in runs for the Sultans.

Included was a 3rd-inning triple by shortstop ARIEL RASMUSSEN, who sent a drive to the fence in left-center field, bringing home ALEX BREIDT (lead walk) with the game-tying run.

"Noelle got me out the first time on a changeup, so I was looking for it," said Rasmussen, the Sultans' leadoff batter.

Moments later, with designated player AHANLIN BARKHEMER at the plate, the return throw to Johnson after a pitch sailed high towards second base. Rasmussen, who just back-tracked to third base, saw the errant throw and raced home with what turned out to be the winning run.

"I had just got back to the base when I saw the throw go high," Rasmussen added. "You just always need to be ready and aware when something like that happens."

The other Santana run came in the 4th, setup by a lead double by Schisler. Courtesy runner KATHERINE PETTY took third on a passed ball, then scored on a basehit to left by first baseman TARA GRENNEN.

"A game like this will give us more confidence, especially if we play West Hills again in the playoffs," added Grable, who has committed to play her college ball at Northern Illinois.

West Hills needed just three batters to score in the 1st.

KAYCEE AQUININGOC accepted a lead walk, then stole second base. Johnson then lined a single up the middle for a quick 1-0 advantage. However, the only other Wolf Pack hit was a bloop single over the shortstop by KATIE BYRD.

The only thing close to an opportunity for West Hills saw MELISSA EGGLESTON get hit by a pitch to open the 6th. However, a backdoor, pickoff throw by Grable toward first base saw the umpire call the runner out on a controversial decision; West Hills coaches argued the tag by second baseman TAYLOR BARRY was high after the runner already extended her hand to the bag.

It was the second time Grable threw out Eggleston, also throwing her out at second base following a 3rd-inning walk.

West Hills also displayed some glovework when Johnson snapped a liner by KENDRA KUPER, then whipped the ball to first base for a double play to end the 2nd.

The newly-realigned CIF Division III field includes these two teams, plus 5th-ranked Ramona and El Capitan, among others.

EL CAPITAN 1, HELIX 0 – In a classic duel from the times of the 40-foot pitching rubber in days of yourn, Vaqueros stopper DELANIE GOURLEY held the edge on the Scotties' KEANA NAKATA in Wednesday's (Mar. 14) opener of the Grossmont Conference Tournament.

Gourley struck out 19 batters in tossing a 3-hit shutout. Her strikeout total is one short of the CIF San Diego Section record for a regulation, 7-inning game. The current mark is 20, last achieved by Santee resident (and current USD pitcher) Cassidy Coleman of Horizon High against The Bishop's in 2010.

Meanwhile, Nakata, a ground-ball pitcher, registered one strikeout in tossing a 5-hitter.

Interestingly, it was the first 1-0 ballgame involving any East County program this season.

El Capitan's lone run came in the 4th on a lead double to right-center field by Gourley (2-for-3), a CASSIE BATTAGLIA sacrifice bunt, then a basehit by KATY CARMICHAEL.

Helix placed a runner on third base in the 3rd when CHANELLE WARD singled, then moved to third on a pair of passed balls, but Gourley struck out the next three batters. The Highlanders also left another runner at second base in the 6th.

Ward and PRECIOUS NOA both went 1-for-3, while MARISSA HAMPTON registered a pinch-hit single to open the 6th.

Gourley's career high for strikeouts is 22, set as a freshman in an 11-inning setback to Grossmont in 2010.

Playing shortstop for Grossmont is Cel Devila, giving regular starter Aubrie May a day off on defense in Wednesday's win at Monte Vista. (Photo by Steve Crisci)

May's hits included a double and four singles, good for a pair of RBI. However, the power star on the afternoon was third baseman KATHERINE TREGO, who slammed a pair of solo home runs as part of a 4-RBI surge.

Trego knocked in a pair of runs with a bases-loaded single over the head of Monte Vista's third baseman, scoring both CEL DAVILA and May. Later, Trego went deep down the left-field line in the 5th, then deep to left-center in the 7th.

Davila, who played shortstop for Grossmont to give May a day off on defense – she was the designated player –- also collected three RBI on a 3-for-6 outing. She was robbed of a fourth hit when her hot grounder ticketed for right field struck a baserunner for an automatic out.

Monte Vista actually held an early 2-0 lead through the 1st inning before the Hillers answered by scoring 13 of the contest's remaining 14 runs.

VALHALLA 10, EL CAJON VALLEY 2 (5 inn.) – In a contest delayed for 45 minutes, the late-arriving umpires got lucky when the Norsemen run-ruled the visiting Braves in less than 90 minutes in Wednesday's (Mar. 14) opening round of the Grossmont Conference Tournament at Leto Field.

Sophomore pitcher KIRSTEN GALLO collected the victory, scattering three hits over four innings. She struck out four batters, then sophomore ASHLEY MADARA tossed a perfect 5th inning for the Norsemen (2-1), who won their second straight contest.

Valhalla belted three homers against the Braves, including an East County leading fourth of the season by MADISON LABSHERE. The junior shortstop hit a shot to center field to make it back-to-back homers moments after New Mexico bound catcher NAOMI TELLEZ went deep to left-center with a 2-run blast to also score KAYLIE HIPWELL.

Also hitting the long ball was sophomore EMILY ORDONEZ, who went to right-center for her first career homer good for two RBI in the 5th.

For the contest, Tellez went 3-for-3 with two runs scored and a pair of RBI, while Hipwell batted 2-for-3 with a triple and a sacrifice bunt. In addition, junior second baseman DIONNA SMITH and freshman outfielder KATIE SCHMIDT each went 2-for-2, with Schmidt posting a double.

Mount Miguel first baseman Aliyah Chavez (left) makes the tall stretch to register the out against Granite Hills' Erica Vasquez. The Eagles won 18-0. (Photo by Suzy Lahitte) ADDITIONAL PHOTOS HERE

Sophomore first baseman CASSIDY COKER went 2-for-3 with three RBI, including a 2-run double in the 3rd, for the Eagles. In addition, first baseman VICTORIA HATHAWAY batted 3-for-5 with two RBI, then caught for DeWitt over the final three frames.

ERICA VASQUEZ, a junior who gained a start in right field, also posted two hits and an RBI.

STEELE CANYON 10, CHRISTIAN 0 (5 inn.) – Cougars pitcher GRACE KRAMER tossed a 2-hit shutout at the visiting Patriots, while her teammates stole a season-high six bases, capturing Wednesday's (Mar. 14) non-league contest.

Kramer struck out the first three batters of the ballgame, finishing with eight K's in a 61-pitch effort.

Meanwhile, outfielder RACHEL BEASLEY registered three thefts along the basepaths to help the team score in all five innings, capped by a walkoff RBI single by pinch-hitter PRISCILLA FITCH to bring home ALYSSA MASCARI.

KALI SCHWARTZ collected three singles and a pair of RBI, while KYLIE STEAGALLL was 2 for 3 with an RBI.

Kramer carried a perfect game into the 4th inning. But with one out, ANAYA TOBIASON cued an infield single past Kramer, then MARY GRABOWSKI lined a basehit to centerfield.

Christian's defense, which yielded seven unearned runs, is expected to improve in time for its next contest with the return of injured players. Patriots pitcher MELANIE STARK was pinned with the loss, but she was tagged for

only one hard-hit ball to the outfield in Wednesday's (Mar. 14) non-league contest.

PATRICK HENRY 8, EASTLAKE 4 – With senior pitcher GRACE HERNANDEZ and seven other Patrick Henry High choral students performing at Carnegie Hall in New York, the Patriots still were able to post their first victory of the season in a mild surprise over the visiting Titans.

Replacing Hernandez in the circle was freshman ALLY FAILLACE, who allowed just six hits for her first career victory.

Meanwhile, the offense got untracked thanks to second baseman SIERRA ALTMEYER, who capped a 2-for-2 outing with her first home run of the season. Her 3-run shot to right-center field in the 4th inning gave the Patriots the lead for keeps.

Slapper MEGHAN FISHER ignited the offense from the top of the batting order, reaching base on three singles. She later stole a pair of bases, scoring both times.

Catcher RYLIE RUCKLE pounded a pair of doubles for three RBI, while senior first baseman KORTNIE WILLIAMS batted 2-for-3 with a double and two runs scored.

For Eastlake, junior centerfield Dylan "Dee" Christensen went 4-for-4 with a double, scoring three times.

© East County Sports.com
VISTA (3-14-12) — Despite being one of the smallest schools in terms of enrollment in San Diego County, diminutive Guajome Park Academy continues to put scares into opponents from larger programs. However, the Frogs still seek a breakthrough victory.

Earlier this season Guajome Park carried leads into the 6th inning, only to lose to Christian and Morse high schools. So Tuesday's (Mar. 13) game was a real heartbreaker as visiting Helix rallied with a pair of runs in the 7th inning to ruin the Frogs' home opener, 4-3, in Warhawk-Friar Classic play at Brengle Terrace Park

Helix scored twice in the 1st, then squandered the advantage as an error allowed GPA to score three times in the 5th. However, the Scotties were gifted a pair of baserunners, as SARA GONZALES and CLARISSA SMITH reached on errors.

MARISSA HAMPTON followed with a game-tying RBI double, then CHANELLE WARD singled home Smith to reclaim the lead.

Hampton then pitched the bottom half of the inning, gaining the victory in relief of SAMANTHA CUNNINGHAM, who started in place of the absent KEANA NAKATA, yet escaped the loss despite not allowing an earned run. Cunningham

lasted the initial 4 2/3 innings, recorded four strikeouts, then Hampton struck out two to close-out the ballgame.

The Scotties got on the board early after SYDNI TOILOLO bombed a two-out triple. Cunningham followed with an RBI double, then she scored on a basehit by DESIRAE BORDINE.

MONTGOMERY 23, MOUNT MIGUEL 4 – The 1st-inning blues again struck the slow-starting Matadors after the Aztecs struck for 11 runs to open Tuesday's (Mar. 13) non-league contest at Trude Field.

Fortunately, Mount Miguel has yet to roll over this season, answering right back with some runs of its own.

ALIYAH CHAVEZ extended her hitting streak to five games with a solid double to left in the home-half of the 1st, scoring on a basehit by sister MARLESSA CHAVEZ. Matadors pitcher ANTONIA GARCIA then bounced back, registering

all three outs in both the 2nd and 4th innings on strikes.

Senior BLIME MACIAS posted a triple for Mount Miguel, while also making a pair of nice defensive stops at shortstop.

YESSICA BECERRA added an RBI single in the 3rd. An inning later, CATHERINE QUIJADA singled, stole a pair of bases, then scored on a dropped fly ball.

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
ESCONDIDO (3-13-12) — A controversial call on a play at the plate went against Bonita Vista, then Torrey Pines squeezed across the decisive run during the international tiebreaker, allowing the undefeated Falcons (7-0) to capture the annual Cougar Classic, 2-1, Monday (Mar. 12) night at Kit Carson Park.

Torrey Pines first downed Steele Canyon in the Gold bracket semifinals, 12-2, before pitcher Taylor Lee bested the Barons by proving viable with her bat and arm.

During the ITB of the finale, Lee squeezed home Lauren Filicia in the top half of the inning, then the senior struck out two batters and threw out the placed runner to cap the annual premier event to kickoff the softball season.

Against Steele Canyon, Falcons pitcher Rachel Nasland struck out seven Cougars in the opening three innings, while the offense stole seven bases to race to a run-rule triumph.

Steele Canyon matcher MOLLY HUTCHISON went 2-for-3 with an RBI, while ALYSSA MASCARI's triple brought home the other run for the Cougars (4-1).

Bonita Vista (4-1-1), down 4-0, came back in its semifinal to take a 6-4 decision over Carlsbad, a team expected to be the CIF San Diego Section's top-ranked team when the initial U-T San Diego rankings is released Tuesday (it only counts ballgames through Saturday).

Grossmont third baseman Katherine Trego (left) with the tag out of a San Marcos baserunner. (Photo by Steve Crisci)

In Game One, junior pitcher AMBER SCHISLER drilled a 3-run homer in the 1st inning to topple Scripps Ranch, 7-3. However, San Marcos overcame a 3-run deficit to force a tiebreaker, nipping the Sultans, 4-3 in 8 innings.

By the time Scripps Ranch (3-2) threw a strike, they were in trouble. Following lead walks to ARIEL RASMUSSEN and KAYTI GRABLE, Schisler sent a drive to left-center field toward Bear Valley Parkway.

In the 3rd, Grable singled home TARA GRENNAN (double), a BRIDGETTE FRIES grounder plated a run in the 4th, then KYLIE BRASE collected a 2-run basehit in the 5th to support Schisler, who struck out seven in the 6-inning semifinal.

San Marcos (5-1) downed a pair of East County schools to take the Silver bracket, first taking down Grossmont, 3-1.

All of the scoring came in the 3rd inning, as three Knights runs were countered by a run-scoring single by pitcher CEL DEVILA. Her line single to left-center field brought in KAYLA APPENZELLER (line single to left, stolen base). Devila also registered six strikeouts.

San Marcos pitcher Christina Clermont (5-1) overcame three early Santana runs by closing the contest with 5 1/3 innings of no-hit ball. The first two runs came courtesy of Knights mistakes, as Rasmussen (passed ball) and CATHRYN PETTY (throwing error) scored. The other run came on Grable's sacrifice fly.

Copper bracket
Mira Mesa, the defending Grossmont Conference Tournament champion, raced through three opponents, including a pair of teams on Monday (Mar. 12), to claim the Copper trophy of the Cougar Classic. The Marauders easily took out San Pasqual, 4-1, and Clairemont, 7-1.

Senior pitcher Lani Vanta, who will play for Weber State next season, stopped the Golden Eagles on four hits while herself batting 2-for-2 with a walk. Then against the Chieftains, Vanta and TANI LEASAU each homered to make a winner of pitcher Amber Ratza.

Vanta's homer led off the game in the wire-to-wire win, then Leasau delivered a 2-run shot in the 5th.

Non-League
MONTE VISTA 16, SAN DIEGO 5 – A quartet of Monarchs collected four hits each as part of a 20-hit attack in a whipping of the visiting Cavers in Monday's (Mar. 12) non-league affair in Spring Valley.

EMMA DeMARS led the assault with six RBI among her four hits, including a 3-run homer to left-center field in the 4th.

Also garnering four hits was CHELSEA BALAJADIA (double, 3 RBI, 2 runs), EMILY LOPEZ (2 doubles, 3 runs, 3 RBI) and MEGAN SEARS (double, 2 RBI). In addition, freshman SIERRA GOLDHAGEN registered two hits and an RBI.

CHRISTIAN 8, KEARNY 3 – Patriots senior MARY GRABOWSKI drilled a 2-run homer to straight-away center field – her second of the season –as part of a 3-for-4, three RBI afternoon in Monday's (Mar. 13) non-league triumph at Dawson Field. Meanwhile, her freshman sister, GABY tossed the first four innings for her second pitching victory, while also singling and walking twice at the plate.

ANAYA TOBIASON batted 2-for-3 with a pair of RBI for Christian (2-5), which has won two of its last three outings. MELONIE STARK pitched the final three innings to earn the save, striking out three Komets without allowing any hits.

© East County Sports.com
ESCONDIDO (3-11-12) — Steele Canyon High pitcher GRACE KRAMER, who offered her verbal commitment to St. John's last month, lifted the Cougars into the Gold bracket semifinals of Escondido High's annual Cougar Classic by surviving an international tiebreaker to edge Mt. Carmel, 5-4 in 8 innings Saturday (Mar. 10).

Kramer coaxed a pair of pop-ups and a shallow fly ball to left to strand the Sundevils' ITB runner at second base in an 8-strikeout performance.

Meanwhile, Steele Canyon was able to push across senior JESSICA THOMPSON with the go-ahead run in the top of the 8th. ALYSSA MASCARI put down a sacrifice bunt to advance Thompson to third, then RACHEL BEASLEY collected her first career game-winning RBI with an intentional grounder to the right side.

Both teams are poised for inclusion when the county rankings are released on Tuesday, but not after sloppy play during regulation, as both teams combined to allow six unearned runs.

A good example came with the game's opening batter, as Cougars left fielder VICTORIA YANITOR reached on a dropped third strike, then advanced around the bases on a wild pitch, a groundout, then a line single to right by catcher MOLLY HUTCHISON.

After the Sundevils tied it up, Yanitor posted a 2-run single in the 4th, bringing home Mascari and Beasley.

The other Cougars run came in the 7th, whe KAYLIE AZEVEDO reached on an error, then scored when a grounder by KAI SCHWARTZ was also booted, two of six Mt. Carmel errors. However, a Steele Canyon miscue led to a pair of Mt. Carmel runs to force extra innings, as Kramer escaped by leaving the bases loaded.

TORREY PINES 2, WEST HILLS 1 – In a battle of 4-0 ballclubs, Falcons pitcher Rachel Naslund overcame a 1st-inning run to cap the contest with 5 2/3 innings of shutout ball to advance to the Gold semifinals of the Cougar Classic. Torrey Pines will meet Steele Canyon on Monday (Mar. 12), while Carlsbad will take on Bonita Vista.

Torrey Pines' "Three Laurens" were the difference, as Lauren Hynes scored a run, Lauren Bower drove in a run, while Lauren Filicia had one of each in the victory at Kit Carson Park.

Grossmont catcher Sarah Nicks (Photo by Steve Crisci)

Winning pitcher DANI McMILLAN was supported by a 3-for-3 outing by second baseman HAYLEY KASDEN, who was a focal point each time the Hillers scored.

In the 1st, four straight basehits produced a pair of runs, as CEL DAVILA and AUBRIE MAY singled, followed by run-scoring hits by Kasden and KATHERINE TREGO.

Kasden opened the 3rd with a double to right-center field, with Trejo (walk) eventually scoring after a double play and an error when the catcher attempted to backdoor Trejo with a throw to third base which landed down the left-field line.

Then in the 5th, May and Kasden singled to start the rally, with SARAH NICKS driving in both Kasden and pinchrunner JAEDA BURNETT with a triple to left-center.

In the Silver semifinals, Grossmont will meet San Marcos, which saw pitcher Christian Clermont toss a no-hitter at La Costa Canyon in a 7-0 decision. The other half of the draw finds Santana, a 9-1 victor over Mission Hills, meeting Scripps Ranch, which scored three times in the 1st to upend Poway, 4-1.

SAN PASQUAL 10, HELIX 0 – No one told first-year Highlanders head coach EMILY KOWALSKI that the elimination round of the Cougar Classic coincided with SAT testing for juniors. And unlike the majority of Grossmont Conference schools, Helix Charter was also entering spring break.

In other words, the Scotties were short-handed for Saturday's (Mar. 10) ballgame at Kit Carson Park.

"We were down to 10 players today," noted Kowalski. "We were still playing with six sophomores, two freshmen, one junior and one senior – and only three of them were returners."

Meanwhile, the opposing Golden Eagles featured no fewer than seven seniors in their lineup, making for predictable results in a run-rule shortened, 5-inning contest.

San Pasqual's Brooke Langeloh tossed a 1-hitter, with SAMANTHA CUNNINGHAM collecting a 2-out triple in the 4th inning.

In other Copper bracket play, Brawley pitcher Justine Gonzalez stopped Patrick Henry, 3-2, striking out four and gaining the game-winning RBI.

Meanwhile, Mira Mesa pitcher Lani Vanta earned the victory in the Marauders' 7-4 decision over Granite Hills.

© East County Sports.com
ESCONDIDO (3-10-12) — The control demonstrated by West Hills High senior NOELLE JOHNSON bordered on extraordinary to complete the final day of pool play action at the annual Cougar Classic.

Johnson needed just 45 pitches in the 8-0 run-rule triumph over Patrick Henry, with 40 of her tosses going for strikes in her 2-hit shutout of the Patriots on Saturday (Mar. 9).

"I don't think I've seen anybody that good in such a way," said Wolf Pack coach MIKE APPLEBAUM. "Every pitch just always seemed to be a strike."

Catcher CORTNEY HORNE batted 2-for-3 with a double, a triple and two RBI, while KAYCEE AQUININGOC drove in four runs with a 3-run double and a sacrifice fly.

The Wolf Pack struck quickly in the 1st, as Johnson walked, then Horne doubled in courtesy runner JENNY SHEPARD. The team later added three runs in the 4th, then four more in the 5th.

STEELE CANYON 14, HILLTOP 4 – N.C. State bound catch MOLLY HUTCHISON smashed another home run, allowing the Cougars to join seven other schools as pool winners, all advancing into Saturday's (Mar. 10) championship (Gold Bracket) round of Escondido High's Cougar Classic at Kit Carson Park.

In tumbling the Lancers, Steele Canyon posted six runs in the 1st, then seven more in the 5th to support pitcher KYLIE STEAGALL in her first start of the season.

Hutchison finished with four RBI on three hits, while JESSICA THOMPSON also knocked in four runs.

Granite Hills shortstop Katy Crews (Photo by Suzy Lahitte) ADDITIONAL PHOTOS HERE

Morgan Howe went 3-for-3 with a 2-run double for Westview.

Granite Hills' improved offense is placing runs on the board, getting to Wolverines pitcher Audrey Ciruzzi in three different innings.

Catcher KRISTINA LAHITTE drove in a run in the 4th, then KAILA DeWITT doubled home another run in the 5th to close the gap to 5-3 before Westview added three more markers in the bottom half of the inning.

MT. CARMEL 8, GROSSMONT 6 – The Foothillers entered Friday's (Mar. 9) contest with a berth into the championship round of the Cougar Classic at stake, but the Sundevils ended such thoughts early with eight runs in their initial trip to the plate.

The Hillers did close to within 8-6, but Mt. Carmel finally skated past to gain a Final Eight berth against Steele Canyon on Saturday.

Grossmont will play in the Silver bracket against Point Loma.

Helix pitcher Samantha Cunningham. (Photo by Tony Bordine)

SAMANTHA CUNNINGHAM was in the circle in place of the absent KEANA NAKATA for Helix, allowing just two earned runs. Cunningham struck out two, allowing just six hits and a walk. However, a series of errors gave the nod to the Eagles.

On offense, DESIRAE BORDINE gave the Scotties an early lead with a 2-run double with two outs in the 1st. SYDNI TOILOLO added an RBI triple in the 6th, also with two outs.

VISTA 7, SCRIPPS RANCH 6 – The Falcons mounted a 6-0 lead and carried a 1-hit shutout into the 5th, but the Panthers answered with four runs, then three more in the 6th for the improbable victory. In both rallies, Summer Laredo and Victoria Webster registered basehits and a stolen base to eventually score.

Non-League
MONTE VISTA 9, SWEETWATER 5 – The Monarchs are now 3-0 for the first time since opening 4-0 in 2006 after stopping the visiting Red Devils in Friday's (Mar. 9) non-league ballgame.

EMILY LOPEZ batted 3-for-3 with three doubles, while EMMA DeMARS went 3-for-3 (all singles), as Monte Vista snapped a 4-4 deadlock with five runs in the bottom of the 6th inning.

Warhawk-Friar Classic
CORONADO 18, MOUNT MIGUEL 7 – The Matadors held the early lead until the host Islanders posted eight runs in the 3rd inning to capture Friday's (Mar. 9) tournament contest. But at least Mount Miguel didn't roll over.

In the 4th, they bounced back on an ALIYAH CHAVEZ triple, coming home on a PRISCILLA GOMEZ basehit, followed by singles by ANGELICA GORDON and RE'AL KELLY for another run.

Then in the home-half of the frame, the defense shined with nice running catches by outfielder MARLESSA CHAVEZ and catcher CATHERINE QUIJADA.

In the 5th, another triple by Chavez would score ALEXIS GAXIOLA (hit by pitch), then a sacrifice bunt by Gordon saw the ball thrown away for a 3-run play.

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
ESCONDIDO (3-9-12) — Granite Hills High took advantage of the fence-less outfields at Kit Carson Park to hit triples. And lots of them.

Fueled by three triples, the Eagles overcame an early 2-0 deficit to score in each of the first four innings to topple Vista, 5-3, in one of 12 pool play games in Thursday's (Mar. 8) third day of the Cougar Classic.

KIMMY TRIOLO, BROOKLYN SCHWEN and TARIN MARKS all found gaps in the outfield for 3-base hits, while Schwen had a second shot go for a double to highlight a 12-hit attack.

Schwen's 2nd-inning triple gave the Eagles the lead for keeps, while Marks' triple knocked in a run in the 3rd.

Triolo finished with three runs scored thanks to a pair of hits and a stolen base. Schwen, FELICIA VINCENT and MICHELLE MILLER registered two hits each.

SANTANA 4, RANCHO BUENA VISTA 1 – The Sultans posted all four of their runs in the 2nd inning, then relief pitcher KYLIE BRASE tossed 2 2/3 innings of shutout ball to collect the victories, keeping Santana alive for a championship round berth at the Cougar Classic.

Santana, which fell to Ramona earlier in the week, saw the Bulldogs settle for a surprising 2-2 draw with winless San Pasqual. Thus, if Ramona falls to RBV on Friday, the Sultans will slip into the Big 8 – which is a near guarantee – to be placed in next week's county rankings.

Brase entered the game after the Longhorns accepted three walks to load the bases with one out. Although one inherited runner scored to ruin the shutout, she registered a pair of shutouts to maintain the lead.

An inning later, Santana catcher KAYTI GRABLE aided Brase by throwing out a runner attempting to steal second base in the 5th. Grable was also in the center of the Sultans' scoring.

In the 2nd, ARIEL RASMUSSEN singled in a run with a sharp single to center, then she came home when Grable blasted a triple to straight-away center field. ALICIA ZUNIGA followed with a sharp grounder, but the ball was booted and Grable scored for a 4-0 cushion.

For Santana, left fielder CATHERINE PETTY was the lone player on either side with multiple hits in a 2-for-2 outing.

STEELE CANYON 13, POINT LOMA 0 – Cougars junior GRACE KRAMER, who led all East County pitchers in saves last season while pitching behind the since-graduated COURTNEY JOHNSON, has established herself as the ballclub’s No. 1 pitcher following Thursday (Mar. 8) night's blanking of the Pointers at the Cougar Classic.

Kramer, who tossed a complete-game shutout against El Capitan while sharing in two others last season, tossed a 3-hitter at Point Loma. She struck out 10 batters.

"Everyone did great, especially our defense," Kramer noted. "Our shortstop, ALYSSA MASCARI, twice went deep in the hole to get the ball and throw runners out. She's really quick."

Steele Canyon now needs to defeat Hilltop in Friday's final day of pool play to gain a berth in the Gold (championship) Bracket quarterfinals.

The Cougars put Point Loma away early, scoring four times in the bottom of the 1st. The first three runs came home on errors, then KALI SCHWARTZ lined a blast to left-center field, circling the bases for her first homer of the season.

AMANDA HARTNETT pounded a 3-run homer in the 4th, part of an 8-run rally to put away the victory. Hartnett finished with four RBI.

CARLSBAD 16, HELIX 0 – The Lancers (4-0) made their case to become the top-rated ballclub in the CIF San Diego Section after becoming the first team to qualify for the Gold Bracket quarterfinals of the Cougar Classic.

Dani Cowan and Shelley Proctor combined on a 2-hit shutout of the Highlanders to complete a sweep of three pool games. Cowan struck out five batters in her three innings of work, then Proctor struck out two in the run-rule shortened contest.

Helix (2-2 overall) received singles from BRAY MONTEROSSA and CHANEL WARD.

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
ESCONDIDO (3-8-12) — The No. 1 ranking in the CIF San Diego Section quite possibly was on the line following a pair of marquee contests during Wednesday's (Mar. 7) second day of the Cougar Classic, the area's top season-opening tournament.

CalHiSports made its choice known early, electing Bonita Vista as the section's top ballclub. And the Barons failed to disappoint after nipping Poway, 4-3. Meanwhile, East County will be well-represented with several teams when both major media polls are released early next week, including West Hills, following a 5-0 pasting of Rancho Bernardo.

Wolf Pack pitcher NOELLE JOHNSON out-dueled Notre Dame bound pitcher Sara White of the Broncos to move to the top of their tournament pool. Johnson struck out nine, firing a 3-hit shutout, not allowing any basehits following a lead single to open the 3rd inning.

The only hard-hit ball was a double by Broncos shortstop Tiana Miller. However, the slick fielding defender suffered through a rare 2-error outing on defense, with both mistakes occurring in innings when West Hills scored.

Taking full advantage was West Hills catcher CORTNEY HORNE, who blasted a trio of extra-base hits – two doubles and a triple – driving in a pair of runs.

In the 1st, Johnson singled in KACEY AQUININOQG (lead walk, stolen base) to open the scoring just three batters in. Johnson advanced to second base on an error.

Horne, who threw out a Rancho Bernardo runner attempting to steal second base just minutes earlier, then blasted her first double of the contest, her shot to right field allowed courtesy runner JENNY SHEPARD to come home for a 2-0 advantage.

Horne added a 1-out triple down the left-field line in the 3rd, but was stranded. So in the 5th, she went deep to left-center for two more bases, driving in Johnson who had reached on an error.

In all, West Hills (2-0 overall) collected six hits off White in the team's five at-bats before the contest was called due to the tournament time limit.

The Wolf Pack needs victories over San Marcos and Patrick Henry to advance to Saturday's (Mar. 10) quarterfinals. The semifinals and championships in all four divisions are slated for Monday, just hours before the rankings by UT San Diego and The North County Times are released.

STEELE CANYON 8, ESCONDIDO 3 — Junior catcher MOLLY HUTCHISON batted 3-for-3 with a home run, while GRACE KRAMER tossed two innings of shutout relief to register the save, allowing the Steele Canyon Cougars to down the tournament host Escondido Cougars in their pool play opener Wednesday (Mar. 7) at Kit Carson Park.

For Hutchison, it's a nice transformation after opening her sophomore season slowly.

"Everyone on our team played great," said Hutchison. "And if we keep playing defense behind our pitching, we should do very well this season."

Hutchison has made a verbal commitment to attend North Carolina State.

For Escondido, Maddie Lerma hit a homer and a double.

GROSSMONT 8, CLAIREMONT 4 — It was another big game for Northwestern bound shortstop AUBRIE MAY, who collected seven total bases in a 3-for-3 outing and scored three times for the Foothillers (2-0). Included was a double and a grand slam in Tuesday's (Mar. 7) clubbing of Clairemont in Cougar Classic pool play action.

May's slam in the 2nd inning proved important as the Hillers only led 5-4 through the first two frames. So Grossmont switched to DANI McMILLAN in the pitching circle, who came in to toss three innings of shutout relief to gain the pitching victory. "D-Mac" allowed just a pair of basehits.

CEL DAVILA, who was switched to the leadoff spot, registered a pair of hits and scored twice to jumpstart the offense.

RAMONA 9, SANTANA 5 — A forgettable 6th inning took nearly an hour to play after three errors saw the defending SDCIF Division III finalist Bulldogs score seven unearned runs. Then things got worse for the Sultans.

The sprinklers at the Kit Carson Park diamond came on, so the teams needed to wait for another field to clear before moving the game to resume action. Of course, two batters later, the sprinklers on the second field turned on, forcing another delay.

During the relocation to a third field, the water on the second field was manually turned off, so the teams returned to the second field, not taking the chance that the third field's watering system might remain operational.

When play resumed for the third time, at least Santana chipped away, receiving an RBI double by ALEX BREIDT.

Of course, after wasting a 4-2 lead, the 30-minute drive back to Santee wasn't too wonderful either.

The Sultans tallied their other four runs in the 3rd inning, as KAYTI GRABLE and KENDRA KUPER each registered 2-run singles.

Helix shortstop Clarissa Smith (9) attempts to turn the double play vs. Misison Hills. (Photo by Tony Bordine)

The Highlanders struck first when CLARISSA SMITH tripled to right-center in the 2nd inning, came home when BRAY MONTEROSSA followed with a basehit past the first baseman.

Mission Hills took its first lead with a pair of runs in the 3rd, but the Scotties answered right back to re-take the advantage.

The 3rd-inning rally saw KEANA NAKATA single, move to second on a CHANEL WARD grounder to the right side, then score on AYDNI TOILOLO's sharp single to center.

Toilolo went 2-for-2 with a walk.

WESTVIEW 4, SCRIPPS RANCH 2 – Brianna Sanders registered a tie-breaking, 2-run single in the bottom of the 6th, which turned into the game-winning hit when the tournament clock expired, giving the Wolverines (2-0) a pool-play triumph over the Falcons (1-1) at the Cougar Classic.

Non-League
EL CAPITAN 10, SD-HIGH TECH 0 (5 inn.) — For the first time this century, the Vaqueros are 3-0 to start the season after blowing past the visiting Storm in a non-league contest Tuesday (Mar. 7).

Regular first baseman KATIE CARMICHAEL gave DELANIE GOURLEY a break from her pitching chores, then emulated her by tossed a 1-hit shutout.

Carmichael struck out 13 batters, facing just two batters above the minimum. The lone High Tech baserunners off the sophomore came via a single and a hit batter.

The Vaqueros offense was supported by freshman SAMMY LOZANO, who smacked both a double and her first varsity home run, each good for an RBI. C.J. MERRILL also belted a home run for El Capitan, while JENNA PORTER and Gourley each registered two hits and an RBI.

For the Storm, their lone hit was a 4th-inning single by senior Alisha Houston.

CHRISTIAN 3, GUAJOME PARK 1 — It took five starts, but the Patriots are now on the board with their first triumph of the season following Tuesday's (Mar. 7) decision over the visiting Frogs in Warhawk-Friar Classic action at Dawson Field.

Freshman pitcher GABY GRABOWSKI earned her initial varsity triumph after spinning a 2-hitter. She struck out 11 batters.

Guajome Park (0-3) pushed across a game-tying run in the 6th on a grounder by Destinee Pallotto, off-setting a solo homer by Christian catcher ANAYA TOBIASON in the 2nd. The solo blast went to left field as Tobiason batted 2-for-2 with a walk.

However, the Patriots answered right back with a pair of tiebreaking runs in the 6th, with the rally starting on a leadoff bunt single by MELANIE STARK, who then stole a pair of bases to reach third base.

Guajome Park wasn't going to allow MARY GRABOWKSI to beat them, so she was walked, but the senior continued on toward second base, intentionally slowing down to force a throw to get caught in a rundown. Not only did Stark score, Grabowski also remained alive when the Frogs dropped the ball.

KAYLA KRUEL, who recorded two of Christian's five hits, followed with an RBI double.

SANTA FE CHRISTIAN 17, MOUNT MIGUEL 7 — Tied at 2-2, the undefeated Eagles (3-0) erupted for 11 runs in the bottom of the 3rd to take down the Matadors in Tuesday's (Mar. 7) Warhawk-Friar Classic game in Solana Beach.

Still, it was a nice bounce from the Madison game for the Matadors' bats, whch answered with five runs in the 5th.

First in the 1st, shortstop BLIME MACIAS opened the ballgame with sharp ground, which tipped off the glove of the Eagles' second baseman for a basehit. Later, Antonia Garcia register a single and a double for Mount Miguel.

“I am very proud of my girls," said Matadors coach KATHLEEN HANKLA. "They are working hard, learning a lot and starting to see their potential.”

On a sad note, CLAUNITTA HARMON was removed from the contest due to shortness of breathe and disorientation. She was taken by ambulance to Scripps Memorial Hospital in Encinitas, but was released shortly thereafter. The coaching staff reported that Harmon is doing five.

© East County Sports.com
ESCONDIDO (3-7-12) — The preseason hype on a pair of established East County pitchers received a third entry during Tuesday's (Mar. 6) opening pool play round of the Cougar Classic, held annually at Kit Carson Park.

Santana High's AMBER SCHISLER opening her 2012 campaign with better efforts than either NOELE JOHNSON of West Hills or El Capitan's DELANIE GOURLEY, tossed a no-hitter against senior-laden San Pasqual in a 3-0 verdict.

"Amber has as many wins as anyone else in the Grossmont Conference over the past two seasons," noted Sultans coach MIKE BASS. "She just doesn't get the credit she deserves."

The statistics show Bass is accurate. Both Schisler and Johnson have posted victory totals of 13 and 20 (in alternate seasons) to lead East County with 33 wins each.

Although Santana and West Hills are in different leagues, they are more than just hometown competitors. In conversation with many coaches at the tournament, all confirm that West Hills will be realigned and will join Santana and El Capitan in Division III for the CIF playoffs, although San Diego Section offices have yet to release the new postseason alignment.

According to several coaches, West Hills, by just three students, will be the largest-enrollment school in D-3, Santana is the smallest, while El Capitan is in the middle.

Schisler and her Sultans teammates have heard all summer about the exploits of Gourley and Johnson, but they should remain the team to beat as they seek an unprecedented sixth consecutive league crown within the Grossmont Conference.

"People forget we're a good defensive team which always works really hard," noted Schisler, who registered four strikeouts and 14 ground balls for her no-hitter. "Because of that, we'll do well this season."

Only two walks prevented a perfect game. And with no fly balls allowed, and strong arms among the Santana infielders, getting runners on base against Schisler could be difficult.

And the Sultans figure to remain among the contenders for a few more years. Schisler is one of more than a half-dozen juniors on the roster, with second baseman TAYLOR BARRY listed as the lone senior.

Santana scored single runs in the 1st, 3rd and 6th innings to move past the Golden Eagles.

Third baseman TARA GRENNAN opened the game getting hit by a pitch then stealing second base, and scoring on a 2-out single to right field by first baseman ALICIA ZUNIGA. Two innings later, Zuniga again went to right for a basehit, scoring on a Schisler triple to left-center field.

Grennan later posted an RBI with a single to bring home CATHERINE PETTY, the pinch-runner for ALEX BREIDT, who walked, then moved into scoring position on a grounder to the right side.

WEST HILLS 7, SAN MARCOS 2 – The Wolf Pack, ignored by CalHiSports in the preseason state rankings, made it two straight triumphs to open the season in another complete-game victory for NOELLE JOHNSON.

In tossing a 3-hitter, the only ball hit hard by the Knights was a solo homer by No. 9 hitter Shannon Gailey, who took advantage of an outfield without any (meaningful) fences after splitting a gap for what would have been a double on a standard diamond with fencing.

However, West Hills took the wire-to-wire decision with its own set of home runs.

In the 2nd inning, KATIE BYRD found the gap in left-center field to circle the bases for a quick 1-0 lead. Then a 3rd-inning basehit by MELISSA EGGLESTON was followed by a 2-run homer from Johnson, who sliced the ball down the left-field line onto the Escondido Pop Warner football field.

GROSSMONT 6, EL CAMINO 3 – In a game of threes, following a trio of scoreless innings, the Foothillers scored three times to open the scoring, the Wildcats promptly tied this Cougar Classic contest, but Grossmont tallied three more runs in the 6th to claim Tuesday's (Mar. 6) pool-play opener for both ballclubs at Kit Carson Park.

Second baseman HAYLEY KASDEN snapped the pitchers' duel with a 2-run triple, then she scored when first baseman MEGAN CRISCI dropped the ball inside the left-field line for an RBI double.

El Camino moved even with three in the bottom of the 4th, capped by a 2-run homer by Tara Kliebenstein. However, Grossmont also bounced back with its own 3-spot.

Kasden started the rally with a 1-out walk, then Crisci put down a sacrifice bunt. However, she was safe when the throw was cutoff by the first baseman, who thought the second baseman was going to be late to the bag (she wasn't).

Grossmont took advantage on a tie-breaking basehit by pinchhitter WHITNEY DIBB to score Kasden, while Crisci went to third. Two pitches later, El Camino's catcher attempted to pick off Crisci, but the throw hooked into left field and a 5-3 lead for the Hillers.

An additional run saw Dibb come home on a passed ball.

Freshman pitcher ANEVAY PEREZ saw the Wildcats bring the potential tying run to the plate in the 5th (and final inning; time limit), but escaped for her first career victory.

El Camino received consecutive dazzling catches by centerfield Delynn Rippy. She raced toward the infield for a shoestring snag to rob a Grossmont batter, then ranged deep to left-center for an over-the-shoulder, back-hand snag. The Wildcats' leadoff batter also registered a pair of basehits.

SCRIPPS RANCH 8, GRANITE HILLS 3 – It took more than 45 minutes to get through the first nine outs, the amount of time needed for the Falcons to mount a 6-2 cushion in the teams' opening pool play contest of the Cougar Classic.

Amanda Robinson and Susanne Morris registered consecutive RBI singles to jumpstart Scripps Ranch, but the Eagles immediately got even in the home-half of the inning.

A pair of walks sandwiched around an error loaded the bases for sophomore BROOKLYN SCHWEN, who singled in the first Granite Hills run, then a bases-loaded walk to freshman VICTORIA HATHAWAY knotted the contest.

However, Scripps Ranch answered with four runs in the 2nd. ANNIE SCARANGELLA snapped the tie with a 2-run basehit to left-center, followed by a 2-run double just inside the left-field line by Morris.

Elsewhere
In other Cougar Classic contests, Rancho Bernardo pitcher Sara White tossed a 2-hit shutout in a 4-0 blanking of defending Eastern League co-champion Patrick Henry, while Mira Mesa fumbled away an early 2-0 lead to slip due to three critical errors in a 9-3 setback to Poway.

Falcon Fiesta
SAN DIEGUITO 9, CHRISTIAN 1 – Perhaps the Patriots should skip the 1st inning and dive straight into Inning No. 2.

For the fourth consecutive ballgame, Christian suffered through another rough start directly out of the gate, as the Mustangs (1-1) tallied four times in their opening trip to the plate, which featured a 2-run homer from pitcher Alivia Funaki.

Hannah VanVeen went 3-for-4 with three RBI, including a 2-run double, supporting a 4-hitter by Funaki in Tuesday's (Mar. 6) Falcon Fiesta contest.

Christian's lone run came in the 2nd, when ANAYA TOBIASON (1-for-2) reached on a fielders choice, stole second base, moved to third on a ground ball by TAYLOR MILLER, then came home when KELLY ROBINSON intentionally grounded out to the right side for the RBI.

© East County Sports.com
LAKESIDE (3-6-12) — In order for El Capitan High to achieve its goals, including the school's first title since 1995, first things first.

It may sound simple, but only the second time this century, the Vaqueros are off to a 2-0 start thanks to Monday's (Mar. 5) 4-1 victory over Serra at the recently renovated El Cap softball diamond.

El Capitan pitcher DELANIE GOURLEY struck out 17 Conquistadors, but it was offensive production from others in the batting order which may transform the Vaqueros (17-16 in 2011) into more than a .500 ballclub.

"Now we need to take it to the next level as a team," said sophomore KATIE CARMICHAEL, who delivered an early, key hit. "We can't keep playing like individuals."

Carmichael didn't waste any time in the opening inning. Coming to bat with the bases loaded and no one out, the first baseman's sharp basehit pushed home a pair of runs. She later added a sacrifice bunt which led to an insurance run in the 6th.

"It's been a lot of hard work to get to this point," she added. "We're all building together."

The early rally saw RACHEL ACHENBACH and JENNA PORTER walk, then Gourley registered the first of her three basehits before Carmichael came through.

Serra answered with an unearned run in the 2nd, when Q's pitcher Makayla Martin walked and stole second base. The freshman took third on a passed ball, then scored on a smart grounder to the right side by Ashley Blakeley.

BREAN NOBLE got the run back in the Vaqueros 2nd, as she and Porter walked, with Noble scoring on a Gourley basehit. Then after Gourley's third hit, Carmichael bunted her to third, coming home on a KASSIE BATTAGLIA basehit to centerfield.

El Capitan was poised for another run, however, on a basehit by CINDY GONZALEZ, Serra centerfielder Elontay Collins fired a strike to Blakeley at third base to nail a runner attempting to take an extra base.

Along with Martin, Katrina Simmons and Maddie Bordick recorded hits for Serra (1-1).

VALHALLA 18, SD-HIGH TECH 0 (4 inn.) — Norsemen shortstop MADISON LABSHERE remains on a power-hitting spree. The junior clouted a pair of homers to give her three in just two outings, springing the Norsemen past the visiting Storm in Monday's (Mar. 5) non-league contest at Leto Field.

Labshere uncorked consecutive shots to center field – a 3-run blow in the 1st inning, then a 2-run blast in the 2nd. And when she tacked a run-scoring single in the 3rd, she finished with a career-best six RBI.

She is on pace to break the school record of eight, established by Kelley Seitz in 2006.

In addition, catcher NAOMI TELLEZ went deep, a 2-run poke to left field. The senior went 2-for-3 with four RBI and a pair of runs scored.

Combining for the 3-hit shutout were KIRSTEN GALLO and KAYLIE HIPWELL. Gallo yielded just one hit in her three innings, then Hipwell registered all three of her outs on strikes in the 4th.

Helix' Desirae Bordine (18) with the home run trot on her 3-run blast, then she receives a home plate celebration. Cunningham hit for the cycle to beat Christian. (Photos by Tony Bordine)

HELIX 19, CHRISTIAN 3 — The long-ball continued at Dawson Field, where the visiting Highlanders went deep three times, including a grand slam from SYDNI TOILOLO, in a Warhawk-Friar Classic contest Monday (Mar. 5).

SAMANTHA CUNNINGHAM opened the deluge with a 3-run homer in the 4th inning, then later added a double to complete hitting for the cycle. In the 6th, prior to Toilolo's slam, catcher DESIRAE BORDINE posted a 2-run homer. For the ballgame, Bordine batted 4-for-5.

The power explosion supported the complete-game effort of pitcher KEANA NAKATA, who allowed just five hits and one earned run for Helix (2-0).

Christian (0-3) saw GABY GRABOWSKI registered two hits, including an RBI double, while her older sister, MARY CARMEN, reached base three times with a double, walk and was hit by a pitch.

Meanwhile, freshman KAYLA KRUEL also drove in a run.

© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (3-4-12) — Less than 72 hours into the season and the game is on to determine East County's top pitcher.

Following a solid shutout performance by El Capitan High's DELANIE GOURLEY, West Hills High senior NOELLE JOHNSON matched the feat in blanking visiting Mission Hills, 9-0, in Saturday's (Mar. 3) Falcon Fiesta opener.

Johnson, who went 13-7 with a 1.26 ERA last season, struck out 11 Grizzlies without yielding a walk in the 6-inning, run-rule shortened contest. She allowed six basehits, three on scratch singles to the infield, and three on ground balls to the outfield.

"Noelle's going to have a great senior year," said Wolf Pack coach MIKE APPLEBAUM. "She's already on her game."

Johnson also contributed with the bat, going 2-for-4, including a 2-run single with the bases loaded in the 2nd inning.

The rest of the batting order also contributed, as eight or the nine batters registered hits. Among them, shortstop ANA QUINTANILLA stroked a 2-run double to left-center in the 5th, while junior centerfielder MELISSA EGGLESTON, who rarely batted a year ago, demonstrated her improvement with a run-scoring double.

Next up for West Hills (1-0) is Tuesday's (Mar. 6) opening round of the Cougar Classic at Kit Carson Park in Escondido. Mission Hills (0-1) next meets Carlsbad.

CARLSBAD 8, VALHALLA 5 — The visiting Norsemen found the wrong opponent to open their season against.

A year ago, the Lancers breezed to an Avocado West League title, posting a perfect 8-0 mark including series sweeps of La Costa Canyon and El Camino. But after garnering one of the top seeds for the San Diego CIF Division I playoffs after posting a 23-6 regular-season record, the ballclub fell flat with a quick 0-2 exit from the postseason.

And they've have nine months to think about it until Saturday's (Mar. 3) opener.

"And Carlsbad's got eight Division I bats in its batting order," said Valhalla assistant coach CHRIS GALLO. "They will be real tough this season."

Featuring a home run by senior captain Emily Schneider, Carlsbad erupted for seven runs in the first three frames to take the teams' Falcon Fiesta opener.

The only thing which could slow Carlsbad may be in the circle, as Valhalla scored multiple times against both Lancers pitchers.

Included was a 2-run homer by junior shortstop MADISON LABSHERE, who blasted the ball over the left-center field fence in the 7th inning.

Meanwhile, the debut of freshman third baseman ABIGAIL METSCH featured a pair of basehits, while senior catcher NAOMI TELLEZ walked twice and lifted a sacrifice fly to bring home freshman second baseman DANIELLE UY (single to right-center).

For Carlsbad, Dani Cowan and Kiersten Anady both drove in a pair of runs.

© East County Sports.com
SPRING VALLEY (3-3-12) — The season debut of the Mount Miguel Matadors at least had a silver lining.

Following two poor innings to open against visiting Madison, at least the Matadors played even with tournament host Madison for the final three frames before succumbing, 13-1 in five innings, in Friday's (Mar. 2) Warhawk-Friar Classic contest at Trude Field.

"They got their nerves out of the way," said Matadors head coach KATHLEEN (GALBRAITH) HANKLA, one of three Grossmont Conference coaches to get married in the past year. "Once we settled down, we got some hits and scored."

Madison pitcher Bre Eaker carried a perfect game into the 4th inning, registering seven of the first nine outs on strikes. She finished with 10 Ks.

But then Mount Miguel awoke when shortstop BLIME MACIAS and pitcher ANTONIA GARCIA lined basehits to the outfield to open the 4th. Macias then came home when CATHERINE "Cat" QUIJADA hit a hot grounder which was booted, yet the catcher was awarded the RBI since the runner was scoring anyway.

Mount Miguel also displayed some glovework following a series of early errors. Included was a pair of nice grabs in center field by ALEXIS GAXIOLA, including one while crashing into the fence.

Madison, which is taking over operation of the Friar Classic (it will be renamed the Warhawks Classic in 2013), received a pair of hits each from Eaker, catcher Kaylie Felix and middle infielder Reyna Johnson as part of a 12-hit attack.

Meanwhile, Warhawks senior second baseman Emily Woodruff announced she will be attending Lincoln University in Pennsylvania (formerly Ashmun Institute) to play for the NCAA Division II Lions.

MORSE 13, CHRISTIAN 6 — This pair of Eastern League rivals were matched in another Warhawk-Friar Classic contest, but with an array of defensive changes on the Patriots after shortstop ALYSSA HARRIS was lost due to a mild concussion in the season opener left the defense in disarray.

With several players uncomfortable at different positions on defense, the snowball effect found Christian eventually committing 11 errors in falling to the host Tigers on Friday (Mar. 2). Among Morse's runs, 14 were unearned.

At least the Patriots offense is proving productive.

Defending East County batting champion MARY GRABOWSKI belted a double, starting a 3-run rally in the 3rd inning which leveled the contest at 6-all. Later in the inning, KAYLA KRUEL and KELLY ROBINSON posted consecutive RBI basehits.

Earlier, MELANIE STARK opened the ballgame with a walk, then stole three bases to give Christian a 1-0 advantage.

An inning later, LAUREN LAUDERMILK singled in a pair of runs, as GABY GRABOWKSI (lead single) and Robinson (walk) both moved into scoring position on an error after reaching base.

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (3-2-12/Revised 3-3-12) — "We haven't had a season start like this in a long time," exclaimed El Capitan High head coach JOE COTA. "It's kind of fun."

Of course, with one of the best pitchers on the West Coast, it figures to be a successful season for the Vaqueros, leaping out of the gate in style behind a 1-hitter from junior DELANIE GOURLEY in a 12-0 conquest of host Christian in a non-league game Thursday (Mar. 1) at Dawson Field.

Gourley registered 10 of her 15 outs on strikes in the run-rule shortened non-league contest. She figures to contend with West Hills senior NOELLE JOHNSON as East County's top pitcher this season, but first things first.

"Right now, we're hitting the ball and playing defense," said Gourley, who is headed for the University of Florida in 2014. "We just need to come together as a group before we worry about anything else."

Gourley already owns success in the pitching circle, helping the Southern California Athletics to the premiere division title at the PGF national championships, held in Huntington Beach last summer.

El Capitan erupted for eight runs in the 2nd inning, three of them courtesy of a home run by left fielder KASSIE BATTAGLIA, with Gourley and KATIE CARMICHAEL also scoring. Battaglia, a senior, batted 3-for-4 with three RBI.

"Last year, when I got two strikes on me, I got really nervous," Battaglia noted. "Now I bat with more confidence."

However, all eight runs in the outburst were unearned following a play which sent Christian shortstop ALYSSA HARRIS to the hospital for a precautionary check-up.

With two outs, Harris and second baseman MELANIE STARK each chased a popup, colliding behind the pitching circle with the ball hitting a glove for an error. Although no one saw the players' heads collide, Harris may have suffered some sort of whiplash. She was removed from the ballgame two batters later when she never even reacted to a stolen base attempt.

Update: An MRI showed no damage; Harris is expected to miss 2-3 weeks.

A few batters later, Battaglia belted her bomb, then right fielder BREAN NOBLE added a double. Noble, Gourley, NICOLE BALINGER and JENNA PORTER collected two basehits each for El Cap (1-0).

Gourley pitched against a Christian ballclub which figures to improve this season with no fewer than a half-dozen club players in their lineup. However, senior catcher MARY GRABOWSKI, who is headed for USD, will start the season as designated player following offseason shoulder surgery. Her recovery period is slated to be completed well prior to the opening of Eastern League play.

Meanwhile, El Capitan is confident they can break Santana's long hold as Grossmont Valley League titlists.

"We're working to beat Santana this season," added Battaglia. "Our school hasn't beat them in a long time, but this is our year."

The lone Patriots hit came from the first batter of the ballgame. Stark slapped the ball down the third base line, beating the throw to first what was determined to be an infield single.

The Grossmont Foothillers stand at home plate waiting for the arrival of Aubrie May (click photo) following her 1st-inning home run vs. Eastlake. (Photo by Steve Crisci)

EASTLAKE 3, GROSSMONT 1 – The senior year for Foothillers third baseman AUBRIE MAY started with a bang. On her debut at-bat of the season, May clouted a booming home run to left-center field to give the hosts a quick 1-0 lead.

"And that was the last time Eastlake pitched to her," quipped Hillers coach JERRY LERUD, as the defending CIF Division I titlists fell on a 2-hitter by the Titans.

The only other Grossmont hit was a 6th-inning single by CEL DAVILA, a sophomore third baseman. Later in the inning, Davila had a chance to score, but with two on and two out, teammate SARAH NICKS, the Hillers' junior catcher, was robbed on a diving catch by Eastlake's centerfielder to end the threat.

DANI McMILLAN and ANAVEY PEREZ split the Grossmont pitching chores in a battle to take over starting duties for the graduated RACHEL STALFORD, East County's pitcher of the year last season.

HELIX 10, KEARNY 1 – With improvement in almost every department, the Highlanders figure to move up a few notches if pitcher KEANA NAKATA can stay healthy.

On Thursday (Mar. 1), Nakata registered her first nine outs on strikes, finishing with 11 Ks to down the visiting Komets in the (renamed) Warhawk-Friar Classic contest.

The Highlanders' bats came out of hibernation in the 3rd inning, courtesy of a pair of line shots.

Following basehits by Nakata and SYDNI TOILOLO, sophomore catcher DESIRAE NORDINE went to the opposite field with a triple off the fence in right-center field for a 3-1 lead.

On the very next pitch, center fielder SAM CUNNINGHAM roped a 2-run homer deep over the left-field fence to double the team's advantage.

Later, Toilolo belted her first homer of the season.

Kearny opened the scoring on a triple which landed just inside the right-field line by Sam Henson in the 1st, but Helix got even in the 2nd when Cunningham (single, stolen base) barely beat the throw home on a basehit to right by second baseman CLARISSA SMITH.

Emily Kowalski

Kowalski played ball for Santana, eventually earning her Master's degree in education from Michigan, where she met her future husband, who was attending Michigan's law school. The couple have a son, who is the ballcub's biggest fan.

She is a social studies instructor at Helix Charter.

© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (2-29-12) — As the story goes, an assistant coach for Ohio State asked West Hills High catcher CORTNEY HORNE what she wants to do with her life.

"I want to be Red, White and Blue," Horne reportedly responded.

The coach was confused until she received a clarification, "I want to play for the U.S. Olympic team."

And with that, Horne, a member of the All-East County team as a freshman last season, made a verbal commitment to play for Ohio State in 2016.

"She was all excited and called me like four times," said Wolf Pack head coach MIKE APPLEBAUM. "But I was working the school's basketball game, so she came over to the gym and said, 'Just call me 'Buckeye.'"

Known for her quick release and natural swing, Horne was being looked at by dozens of NCAA Division I schools. However, after attending an offseason clinic in Columbus, Ohio, Horne was asked to call the coaching staff the following week.

"They must've talked about softball for well over an hour," added Applebaum. "That's when they made her the (scholarship) offer."

Horne batted a solid .413 for the Wolf Pack last season, ranking 10th overall in East County and second among Grossmont Hills League underclassmen.

In club ball, she is a member of Power Surge Gold 18 following a strong summer with the Gold 14 unit which placed among the Top 10 at ASA nationals.

Horne is joined by her West Hills battery mate, West Hills pitcher NOELLE JOHNSON, in making an early commitment. Johnson, a senior this season, will play for Utah State.

The combo was responsible for knocking out top-ranked Bonita Vista from last season's SDCIF championships en route to taking the Division II title. However, the Barons return in 2012 at the 9th-ranked team in the state in the CalHiSports preseason rankings, while the Pack is not even mentioned among the honorable mention.

Don't worry: The Wolf Pack bulletin board is already full.

© East County Sports.com
RANCHO SAN DIEGO (2-27-12) — East County softball can be a family affair, with the point again validated by the most recent assignment in the high school coaching ranks.

"I'd like to thank the Valhalla family for giving me another shot," said MARK OBNEY, a former Norsemen underclassmen coach who will lead the varsity for the first time this spring. "But it's also one of the hardest things for me to do."

Obney enters his fourth decade as a softball or baseball coach in the East County. But this may be one of his most difficult seasons if not for the encouragement of his daughter. NICOLE OBNEY, a senior, is the starting first baseman for East County rival Granite Hills.

"She's the one to push me to go to Valhalla," Obney noted. "So now it's come full circle -- all of these people touch each other. But it will be especially hard since Valhalla will open league play against Granite Hills."

Could there be divided family loyalties upon the opening of Grossmont Hills League play?

"There's going to be some emotions on the field, so I'm just going to let the kids play ball," added the coach. "But I'm not the only one. One of Granite Hills' assistant coaches will have a niece playing for Valhalla, too."

In addition, coach Obney, one of the operators of the Gamers club program, continues to offer private hitting lessons for players throughout the region, who including many still playing for Granite Hills.

Such is life in one of the most competitive softball locales anywhere.

Obney's first high school assignment came at Valhalla nearly a decade ago, serving as the freshman coach for varsity coach DOUG HARTUNG. A year later, he became the varsity assistant to then head coach MIKE BERTUCCI at Granite Hills.

Still, his coaching connections to all parts of the region date even further back.

"I started by coaching baseball at Santana National Little League," recalled the native of Akron, Ohio. "I just turned from 17 to 18 when Bertucci's brother, Gino, gave me an opportunity coaching at Caps."

Then up the ladder he climbed.

"Our Majors All-Stars team was four games away from Williamsport (and a berth in the Little League World Series," he said. "I still know a lot of those kids today."

Obney even coached against former Santana High coach JERRY HENSON, who was then mentoring his son, KIMO HENSON, at Santana National.

"Jerry and I have battled, along with other coaches from here to the moon!"

Then the transition which changed his coaching career forever.

"Then we had some daughters, so I got into softball for them."

His coaching stops ranged from Lakeside ASA to East County ASA -- featuring five trips to nationals, including a pair of fifth-place finishes -- to travel ball.

"It's all been a good mentoring place for me."

Gourley covers national magazine By Nick Pellegrino © East County Sports.com CLAIREMONT (12-14-11) — El Capitan High junior DELANIE GOURLEY, who pitches in the summer for ASA national champion So. Cal. Athletics, graces a recent cover of Softball Today magazine. The pitcher is on the August 2011 edition of the locally based publication. Gourley pitched the A's, based in Los Alamitos, to the Premier Division crown, the highest level of ASA Girls Under-18 softball, in an event held at Deanna Manning Stadium in Irvine. It was the team's second straight national title. The So Cal A’s then traveled to Orlando, Fla., to the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex to face Team North Florida, the ASA 18 Gold champions in a huge national shootout ballgame. This was a huge game, drew many, many people and coaches, and was streamed live on ESPN3, with Gourley & Co. capturing the mythical national title. The A's feature many of the nation's top future collegians:

The August 2011 cover of Softball Today features El Capitan's Delanie Gourley. (Courtesy, Softball Today magazine) Class of 2012: Aubree Munro, Florida; Danica Mercado, Oregon; Darian Tautalafua, Long Beach State; Selene Pola, Long Beach State; Jasmine Smithson-Willett, Louisville; Jessica Plaza, Stanford. Class of 2013: Delanie Gourley, Florida; Jaylene Ignacio, San Diego State; Mo Mercado, Arizona; Megan Geer, Tennessee; Taylor Koenig, Tennessee; Madison Schreyer, Stanford; Kaylea Snaer, South Carolina.

Alum DeMars
named coach at
Monte Vista

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
SPRING VALLEY (12-22-11) — JOE DeMARS already coaches on the Monte Vista High softball field, but never for the school's Monarchs. This spring, that will change.

DeMars, who already guides the Monte Vista-based Relentless travel ball club, has been named the new head coach at Monte Vista. He replaces SIG CHABROWSKI, who quietly resigned in the offseason after nearly a decade with the program.

"If Monte Vista ever wanted to make a change, I told them I would consider it," said DeMars. "Then the opportunity came, I interviewed, then they gave me the job."

Relentless, which was created just prior to the last summer's ASA season, consists of players from both Monte Vista and Steele Canyon. Thus, DeMars, a Monarchs alum from the school's Class of '82, is already familiar with local talent.

"We have some good players, but we need some pitching and develop the JV," he added. "Plus, we're not going to stop playing while having fun. If you let up, we might even beat you."

The main core of the Monarchs are four players which gained varsity berths as freshmen. Those current seniors include his daughter EMMA DeMARS, who plays catcher and third base, plus left fielder CHELSEA BALAJADIA, centerfield EMILY LOPEZ, and first baseman MEGHAN SEARES.

Monte Vista (12-19 in 2011) has not posted a winning season since 2006, yet has won San Diego CIF playoff games over three of the past five seasons, including a triumph over Clairemont in the Division III tournament last year.

On the dotted line

Top: Players signing for scholarships in softball include (l-r): Lani Vanta (Mira Mesa/Weber State), Monica Downey (Madison/SDSU), Noelle Johnson (West Hills/Utah State), and Mary Grabowski (Christian/USD). Middle: Grossmont's Aubrie May signs with Northwestern while flanked by her father and the Foothillers coaching staff. Bottom: Valhalla catcher Naomi Tellez (New Mexico) is joined at the SDHOC podium with Grabowski. (Courtesy photos from players' families)

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
BALBOA PARK (11-10-11) — The San Diego Hall of Champions held a signing ceremony for National Letter of Intent Day at the fabled sports museum Wednesday (Nov. 9), led by 21 student-athletes from girls softball, the most of any sport eligible to sign with NCAA and NAIA schools.

Included on the list were several players from East County schools, headed by reigning ECS player of the year MARY GRABOWSKI of Christian, who is ticketed for USD. Other standouts from the local area to sign were West Hills' NOELLE JOHNSON (Utah State) and Vahalla's NAOMI TELLEZ (New Mexico).

Meanwhile, at a separate ceremony, Grossmont High left-side infielder AUBRIE MAY placed her signature for nationally-ranked Northwestern University.

May, who has played extensively at third base and shortstop in her Foothillers career, was the defensive stopper and one of the top hitters when the team captured the San Diego CIF Division I championship last spring.

Johnson, who pitched the Wolf Pack to the SDCIF Division II crown, will play for an Aggies program coached by West Hills alum CARISSA MILLSAP-KALABA.

Tellez will play for an improving Lobos program which posted their second-best record in a decade last season before getting eliminated by San Diego State at the Mountain West Conference tournament.

Other East County female athletes included Mount Miguel basketballplayer SHEA YOUNG (New Mexico State), West Hills soccer player Courtney Melanson (Midland), Valhalla swimmer Allison Davis (San Jose State), and Granite Hilsl swimmer Veronica Meyer (Tulane).

Across San Diego and Imperial counties, about 100 future collegians filed paperwork with NCAA or NAIA colleges.

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
COSTA MESA (10-27-11) — RACHEL STALFORD, the reigning East County pitcher of the year out of Grossmont High and a member of the All-CIF San Diego Section first team, will play this season for Vanguard University.

The Lions are an NAIA school which plays in the Golden State Athletic Conference.

Stalford is already enrolled at Vanguard, where she is majoring in history and political science. She is joined in the Lions' freshmen class by two other CIFSDS products TAYLOR HALLAHAN of West Hills and Haley Croce of Clairemont.

"Rachel was a very good late summer addition for us and we are excited to see how she will develop at the collegiate level," said Vanguard head coach Beth Renkoski. "She is a hard worker with a terrific personality and is a great fit for the program and school."

Stalford pitched the Foothillers to the SDCIF Division I title after upsetting Poway, 4-3, in the title game. The right-hander led all East County pitchers in victories (22), but also led the Grossmont Conference with a .490 batting average.

For her efforts, the Foothillers were ranked 35th in the state by CalHiSports.com (25th among Division I programs).

Meanwhile, Hallahan, the centerfielder for the SDCIF Division II champion Wolf Pack, could break into the Vanguard starting lineup as a freshman this spring.

Hallahan batted .394 last season, earning an All-Grossmont Hills League second-team berth, along with placement on the All-East County first team. She led the region with 35 stolen bases, and fifth in total basehits.

"Both Taylor and Haley signed before Rachel, but the three of them are a part of a freshman class of eight that we are very excited about," added Renkoski. "We will have a young team in 2012, but all of them have the chance to contribute right away and this class is a big part of the future of our program."