RALEIGH, N.C. — The Virginia Union University softball team made program history on Thursday, March 26, opening the CIAA Softball Roundup with two decisive victories to improve to 6-0 in conference play for the first time since NCAA records began tracking the program in 1988.
Virginia Union defeated Fayetteville State University 12-3 in the opener before earning a 16-8 win over Johnson C. Smith University later in the day at the CIAA Softball Roundup in Raleigh.
With the pair of wins, the Lady Panthers continued their strong start in Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association play while showcasing explosive offense and strong pitching.
Game 1: Virginia Union 12, Fayetteville State 3
Virginia Union jumped out to an early lead and never looked back against Fayetteville State.
Pitcher
Elisia Gonzalez-Pettis led the effort in the circle and at the plate. She drove in three runs offensively while also delivering a solid pitching performance, scattering five hits over five innings to earn the victory.
The Lady Panthers combined timely hitting with disciplined baserunning to build a comfortable lead and secure the run-rule win.
Game 2: Virginia Union 16, Johnson C. Smith 8
In the second game of the day, Virginia Union's offense erupted once again.
Jenna Nicolski paced the Lady Panthers with four RBIs on three hits, helping power a decisive six-run second inning that gave VUU momentum early in the contest.
Gonzalez-Pettis once again earned the win in the circle as the Panthers completed the sweep of their first day of play in Raleigh.
Coach's Comments
"In game one we brought all the energy, led by great pitching by Elisia and quality hitting," said Virginia Union Head Softball Coach
Dominique Mulero. "Defensively, we looked clean all game and had good base running.
"In game two we came out a little flat and had to fight our way back in! We were disciplined at the plate and allowed them to make the mistakes. We have two tough ones tomorrow but as long as we keep it clean, we're going to have a good day!"
Up Next
Virginia Union will continue play at the CIAA Softball Roundup on Friday, March 27, when the Lady Panthers face Winston-Salem State University and Claflin University in Raleigh, North Carolina.
