Lady Colts Softball Off to Strong Start

The Chartiers Valley Lady Colts softball team has started the 2011 campaign with a strong 5-2 record, outscoring their opponents 43-17 in their first seven games.

There have been many positives offensively for the Lady Colts, including senior shortstop, Lexi Schwartmiller, who is hitting .521 with 1 home run and 5 RBIs.

Also, junior pitcher Lindsay Reiciff is hitting .590 with a home run and 5 RBIs.  Meanwhile, Reiciff has a 1.96 ERA with 47 strikeouts on the mound for the Lady Colts.

However, Coach Jeff Macek said there has been one main elements to this teams success.

"Our defense has been the key," Macek said.

Besides Reiciff and Schwartmiller, the Lady Colts have received offense from two freshmen. Libby Chidlow is hitting .400 and designated hitter Katy Gibson hit a two run homer in the bottom of the 7th in a 3-1 win against the Moon Lady Tigers on April 12.

The Lady Colts compete in one of the tougher sections in the WPIAL (AAA-Section 2) with the Montour Lady Spartans and West Allegheny Lady Indians. Still, Macek thinks those teams will help them in the long run.

"Our Section is stronger than last year and we know we can match up with those teams," Macek said.

The biggest hurdle is staying composed in big game situations.

"We have to work together better in big games and handle the pressure better," junior catcher Kasey Fiedler said.

"The team chemistry is good,” Reiciff said. “The younger kids blend in very well with the older kids.”

The Lady Colts also receive leadership from one of their veteran players.

"I believe it is my job to be a leader on the team," Schwartmiller said.

The Lady Colts have two remaining meetings with the West Allegheny Lady Indians, with the first coming April 27 at Chartiers Valley. The Lady Colts also have a chance at redemption against the Montour Lady Spartans April 26th at home. The Spartans defeated the Colts 4-2 earlier this season.

Chartiers Valley beat Bethel Park Thursday afternoon to improve to 5-2.