MCLA splits with Salem; Earns spot in MASCAC tourney

At eighty degrees, the Joseph Zavattaro Athletics Complex was the hot setting for the Trailblazers’ (10-20) home finale as they hosted the Salem State Vikings (18-14) on MCLA Fan Day to determine a final spot in the MASCAC Tourney. Before the game, Trailblazers coach Kristen Parzych started with recognition for her senior players Rachel Desautels (Readsboro, VT), Steph Hendricks (Warrensburg NY), and Amey Blackburn (Seekonk, MA) with flowers and photographs as well as commentary on their achievements on and off the field.

Freshman Hadley Ameen (North Adams, MA) got the start for the Trailblazers in game 1 and much like the midday sun, lit up the Vikings every time they stepped on the field. Opposing pitcher Katelyn Doherty (Lynnfield, MA) showed early control problems, walking two in the first inning and eventually allowing the game’s first three runs which would be all the Trailblazers needed. Blackburn scored an RBI as well as a run in the inning and Kayla Koumjian (Watervilet, NY) scored the other two RBIs on a single scoring Blackburn and Ameen.

From that point on, neither side made much noise as Ameen continued to dominate the Vikings, going the full seven innings allowing only six hits and striking out five.

Light, pleasant winds began to blow as game 2 saw Ameen starting once more and the Vikings started Katelynn Fanning (East Boston, MA), another freshman. Fanning seemed determined to match Ameen from the first game as she was just as flawless. Fanning gave up only three hits and struck out six despite walking three through seven innings, keeping the Trailblazers bats quiet as Ameen was dealt the loss after giving up one run (unearned) in four innings.

The Trailblazers erupted in cheers and smiles as they heard the news of Bridgewater sweeping Worcester State College, earning the Trailblazers the fourth spot in the conference. The field was in high spirits as dozens of students who showed up for Fan Day to support their Trailblazers partook in a birthday celebration for Desautels after the game as well as in celebration of the Trailblazers’ playoff berth.

The Trailblazers will travel to #1 ranked Westfield State for a single game on Thursday at 4:00 PM. They are returning to the MASCAC Tournament after a six year absence.

Seniors: Amey Blackburn, Steph Hendricks, Rachel Desautel