Crofton 12-U Softball Takes 3rd in York Tourney

The 12-under Crofton Stars softball team had some fun at last weekend's Kickoff Classic in York, Pa., getting a combination of good hitting and pitching to win three of four games.

The fast-pitch softball team's 3-1 record in the tournament was good enough to finish in third place overall, which landed the Stars an invitation to the USSSA World Series at Disney World in late July.

Crofton fell to the WHC Fever ’98. But the rest of the tournament was all about victories as the Stars rolled over NOVA Screaming Eagles Blue, Solanco Blaze and PA Blitz with little trouble, outscoring their opponents, 19-3.

The Fever topped Crofton, 10-1. But Crofton blanked NOVA (4-0) and the Blaze (3-0). The Stars also routed the Blitz, 12-3.

Manager Kevin Mahoney said he and his coaches liked how consistently their team played in all four games, and they'll be deciding about whether or not to go to Florida in the coming weeks.

“Even more impressive than the 3-1 record and the World Series berth is the fact that the girls continue to improve each game, and that every single girl contributed directly to our success," Mahoney said.

Pitcher Raegan Mahoney was solid throughout the tournament. She struck out 17 and walked only three while tossing nine scoreless innings. Kaitlyn Young also pitched well and got the victory in the win that clinched the invitation to Florida. Mikayla Meehan also helped out on mound.

The offense got plenty of help from a number of places. Meehan, Nelana Jones and Christine Miles all got three hits apiece. Erica Hill, Laurie Irons, Kaitlyn Young and Katelyn Page all finished with two hits.

Carson Mahoney also played well at first base while teammate Victoria Giordano was solid at catcher and third base.

The Stars go back to the field this Sunday when they take on the Winfield Sting in a doubleheader on the road at 12;15 p.m. After that comes a home game against rival GORC next Saturday at 1 p.m.