Lynbrook varsity softball hosted a clinic on Saturday, May 3 that was designed to teach younger players valuable skills to carry throughout their softball experience and that will provide lasting impacts. Later that evening, they were proven victorious against the East Rockaway Rocks.
Taking place on the high school softball field, varsity softball players coached 13 younger athletes through a two-hour clinic, working on all the basics. Third baseman and junior Angelina Macchia recalled, “We all collaborated to assist one another through different stations, and helped the kids based on their positions and skill level.” To begin the clinic, varsity players led stretches and warm-ups. Once completed, players split up into different stations: infield, outfield, tee hitting, soft toss, and sliding. Between three and five varsity Owls were at each station, with around three younger athletes in each rotation. This allowed the girls to work one-on-one with each player, providing direct feedback and assistance. Assistant Coach Ashley Martin shared, “On behalf of the entire coaching staff, the varsity girls were positive role models by communicating clearly and encouraging participation. All the players were able to break down skills and provide support. This helped create a welcoming and productive environment for the younger players to learn and increase their softball skillset.” Along with the five rotations, pitchers were also offered their own station to work with varsity softball coach Ashley Martin. To close the clinic, athletes learned how to properly run bases with the instruction of head coach Thomas Frawley.
After a successful clinic, LHS played East Rockaway in the annual “Friendship Game” on East Rockaway’s home turf under the lights. The two teams united for a few hours to eat pizza and baked goods before diverging to their respective dugouts. Macchia continued, “Everybody got the opportunity to field and bat, which helped develop our own skills while also bonding with one another.” The game was initiated promptly at 7:00 PM, with East Rockaway in the field and Lynbrook up to bat. Freshman Kamila DeJesus led off the game, followed by seniors Bianca Lobosco, Kelsey Roth, and Emma Mylan. In the field, the Owls dominated, with freshman Jamie Deitch pitching and Lobosco catching all seven innings. At the top of the fifth inning, junior Samatha Marsiglia hit a home run with two bases loaded, putting Lynbrook above East Rockaway on the scoreboard. By the bottom of the seventh inning, the Owls were up 7-5, winning the game for Lynbrook.
To say this day was a success would be an understatement for Lynbrook varsity softball. Captain and senior Bianca Lobosco remarked, “Everybody worked together to make a great clinic, and the Friendship Game always allows for a great time, both off the field and during the game.” Despite the packed morning, the team pulled through for an outstanding victory against the Rocks.
