Scarsdale Spring Sports Preview: Softball

When Dave Scagnelli began coaching this senior class back as fifth-graders, the Scarsdale varsity coach realized they could have a future impact on the program.

He was right. As his seniors begin preparation for their final year, they have been instrumental in improving the program and making Scarsdale a sectional contender.

In 2008, Scarsdale won a league title, defeating perennial power White Plains, earned a No. 2 seed in the Section 1 softball championships and won a first-round game. It was the program's first sectional victory in 35 years. Last year, Scarsdale won 12 games and was a first-round sectional winner before falling to eventual champion North Rockland for the second consecutive year. Scarsdale was the only Section 1 team to beat the Red Raiders during the regular season -- 2-0.

"I have been lucky enough to have this group since they were fifth-graders, taking this group to tournaments all over the east coast," said Scagnelli, now in his 14th year. "This is the most dedicated group we've ever had. They have the basis and focal point of our team the last two years."

A senior is at almost every position on the field, beginning in the circle with wind miller Nicole Lee, who has been there since freshman year.

"Nicole keeps us in every game and our defense helps out," Scagnelli said.

Chelsea LoBue, the hard-hitting catcher her first three years, moved to third base late last year and will be their once again. Smooth-fielding Kaitlyn Silkowitz is back at shortstop and her double-play partner is Rebecca Prager.

Allison Rifkin will be receiving throws at first base, speedy Rosaria Callara is the centerfielder, Liz Selvaggio is in left field and Meredith Stevens is the right fielder and second pitcher.

"Our players are outstanding defensive players and we are balanced offensively," Scagnelli said. "We feel that we can play different ways. We can play small ball or we can play long ball."

LoBue provides the aluminum when it comes to long ball. Silkowitz is the table-setter. The left-handed hitter is excellent with the bat, especially when it comes to slapping. Once the lightning-quick Silkowitz is on base, watch out because she will be off and running to second and third base.

Callara is another speedster on the base paths and excellent defensive centerfielder.

Joining the eight seniors is returning junior Kat Beck, a first baseman, and sophomores Libby Gross (second base) and Rachel Halperin, the new catcher.

Four new girls join the team, senior Adrianna Clarke, juniors Clare Moretti and Grace Gale, and sophomore Caroline Varlotta. All four provide outfield depth.

Scarsdale's progression the last two years has given the Raiders an opportunity that many teams would welcome -- a berth in the prestigious Morabito tournament, held in Binghamton.

The Raiders will face an enlarged league schedule with Saunders, Lincoln, Gorton and Mount Vernon joining White Plains, Ursuline, New Rochelle and Mamaroneck.

"Our goal each year used to be a .500 record and get a sectional win, but now that has changed," Scagnelli said. "The girls would like to play for a sectional title and we feel we have the potential to possibly play for a sectional title."