June 01, 2006

“I’ve been fortunate to have had two very nice groups of girls my first two years as head coach,” mentions Lady Mustang Coach Jay Marston. “They’ve been a nice group to interact with. They did well, and got better in almost every facet of the game. We had a consistent season, some big wins. The seniors had their best season in many ways and contributed to two successful seasons. They were a nice group to work with.” Plum ended the season 11-9 and tied for second in the same section where Kiski went undefeated.

Marston, who not only coaches Plum Softball but also Plum Bowling, says five seniors, a sophomore, and two freshman saw a lot of playing time. Senior Erin Adams started at second base the last three years. Shannon Bradburn, a four-year starter, was the leadoff hitter had a .477 average, led the team in runs scored with 23, and changed positions this year from outfield last year to third base this year. Senior Kaila Burns, a two-year outfielder, went .317 at the plate. Senior Val Dern, Plum’s primary pitcher, went 8-4 on the mound with 87 strikeouts and a 2.03 ERA. Kristi Konkus, a senior, was a two-year starter. Sophomore Julie DiLonardo was 3-5 pitching, but had 47 strikeouts in 45 games. Freshman catcher Nina Donatucci started since the third game, batted .468 with 2 home runs and had 18rbis. Freshman shortstop Nicci Guido started since halfway through the season.

The Lady Mustangs fell in the first round of playoffs in a heartbreaker.