The Hartford softball team advanced to the Conference of New England (CNE) championship pod after defeating Wentworth Institute of Technology and Western New England University on May 5. The team will continue its postseason run, with the next games scheduled for Thursday.
This development is significant as it marks Hartford’s progress in the tournament, moving them into the double elimination stage. The Hawks’ victories came through strong performances both at bat and in the pitching circle.
Against Wentworth, Hartford scored early and often, ultimately winning 10-2 in six innings. Freshman Alina Weaver started the scoring by singling, stealing second, and coming home on a single from sophomore Katrina Baran. Senior Anita Farkash added a two-RBI single for an early lead. Junior Adelie Beebe hit a three-run homer in the second inning. Senior Gia Miccio broke a program record by reaching base in her 18th consecutive game. Pitcher Carly Mayhood threw all six innings for her eighth win of the season.
In their matchup against Western New England, Hartford won 1-0 behind dominant pitching from sophomore Ella Zobel, who allowed only three base runners over seven innings while striking out five batters. The decisive run came in the sixth inning when Weaver doubled and was brought home on a sacrifice fly by Beebe after defensive errors by Western New England.
Zobel said, “It feels great that I could go the seven innings and pickup the shutout win. The defense was amazing behind me and I knew they had my back with every play. We worked hard and fought through every inning. I could not be prouder of this team.” Beebe added, “It felt good being able to get us ahead early in game one. I knew no matter what my teammates were going to have my back behind me so I went up just having fun and was able to produce today.”
Looking ahead, Hartford will travel to Beverly for their next challenge against Endicott College as part of the CNE Championship Pod.
