Camdyn Morgillo allowed only 7 hits and 1 earned run, but it was not enough as West Haven fell to Bristol Central in the quarterfinals of the CIAC Class LL state tournament, May 31, 2013. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
Dream Over
Westies fall to No. 2 Bristol Central in quarterfinals
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(May 31, 2013)- The magical run for the West Haven softball team has come to an end. After upsetting Amity and Westhill to start the CIAC Class LL state tournament, the glass slipper finally fell off the Cinderella Westies Friday afternoon.
Scoring twice in the first inning, that was all No. 2 Bristol Central needed in a 2-0 victory over No. 23 West Haven. Bristol Central advances to the semifinals where it will play Mercy, while West Haven finishes its season at 13-10.
“I am disappointed that it is over,” West Haven coach Frank Biondi said. “We had a few opportunities. We left the bases loaded early and that hurt us.
“I am not disappointed with their effort. We played hard. They (Bristol Central) are the No.2 team. They made all the plays and we did not make the plays early.”
Bristol Central took the lead for good in its first at bat of the game, scoring twice in the first inning. Olivia Banulski led off with a single and Katie Curry reached when her sacrifice attempt went for an error.
A passed ball put a pair of runners in scoring position for Lauren Vallee, who scored Banulski with a safety squeeze. Jodi DiSanto followed with an infield single which just went over the glove of West Haven pitcher Camdyn Morgillo and deflected past Marisa Pacapelli at second for a 2-0 lead.
Bristol Central's Olivia Banulski scores the first run of the game in a 2-0 victory over West Haven, May 31, 2013. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
“We didn’t come out sharp, but then we settled down after that,” Biondi said of the first inning.
The Westies came right back in the second inning with their best scoring opportunity of the game. With one out, Katy Hoyt picked up the first of her three hits as she singled to left. Madison Watts followed with a single to left and Jolie Morrell singled to center to load the bases.
In perfect position to get on the scoreboard, West Haven was shut down as Bristol Central pitcher Ileish Burney got Lauren Caciopoli on a pop out and Alexis Severino on a line out to second to end the frame.
“That was a big inning right there,” Biondi said. “Even if we get one run in there, it changes what we can do later on in the game.”
Sierra Santana tags out Olivia Banulski trying to steal second in West Haven's 2-0 loss to Bristol Central, May 31, 2013. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
While the second inning was West Haven’s best oppor6tunity to get on the scoreboard, there were other chances as well. Hoyt singled with one out in the fourth but went no further and Pacapelli singled to lead off the sixth but was thrown out trying to stretch the hit into a double.
West Haven’s final crack at saving the season came in the seventh when Hoyt led off with a single. The Westies could not capitalize as Madison Watts popped out, Morrell hit into a fielder’s choice and Caciopoli hit a fly ball to right to end the game and the year for West Haven.
Jolie Morrell makes the play at first against Bristol Central, May 31, 2013. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
“It hurts right now, but look at what we accomplished,” Biondi said. “We came out with a different attitude this year. We came out ready to win. That’s a credit to the girls.
“Jolie Morrell was sensational at first. Kial Watts was terrific at third and Sierra (Santana) had a good, solid year. Camdyn was just great all year. What can you say about her? Along with her pitching, she was our best hitter. Katy (Hoyt) hit the ball well all year. I think she only went three games without a hit. Overall, I am happy with how we played this year.”
In her final game for West Haven, Morgillo went the distance, allowing 7 hits, striking out 3 and walking just 1. Hoyt also played her last game for the Westies and finished with 3 hits in 3 at bats.
Sierra Santana makes the play against Bristol Central, May 31, 2013. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
Pacapelli finished with 2 hits, while Madison Watts and Morrell had the other hits for West Haven.
Camdyn Morgillo leads her team off the field after defeating Westhill in the second round of the CIAC Class LL state tournament. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
Best of the West
No. 23 West Haven upsets No. 7 Westhill to advance to quarterfinals
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(May 30.2013) – All season long, West Haven coach Frank Biondi felt his team could easily have won 15 or more games. Losses in close games down the stretch prevented the Westies from this number.
Looking to prove their coach correct, the Westies rode the 2-hit pitching of Camdyn Moregillo and the clutch hitting of Marisa Pacapelli to defeat No. 7 Westhill, 5-0, in the second round of the Class LL state tournament Thursday afternoon in Stamford.
“This is great,” Biondi said. “We really should have gotten beat in two games. We could have easily been 15-5 or 16-4. This does not surprise me. We are a nice team when we do everything right.”
With the win, West Haven advances to the quarterfinals and will travel to play No. 2 Bristol Central Friday afternoon at 4 p.m. in Bristol.
The Westies score against Westhill, May 30, 2013. Photos courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
The Westies (13-9) did do just about everything right in the hot conditions Thursday afternoon. Morgillo set the tone as she retired the final 12 batters she faced, allowed just 2 hits in the game, struck out 2 and walked 3.
“I definitely think I got stronger as the game went on,” Morgillo said after improving to 13-9 on the year. “I also relied on my defense. It was really hot out there but we did not make any errors at all.”
After stranding a pair of runners in the first inning, West Haven took a 2-0 lead in the second and never looked back. With one out, Jolie Morrell walked, Lauren Caciopoli reached on an infield single and each advanced on Alexis Severino’s grounder to second. When Sierra Santana reached on an error at second, Morrell and Caciopoli scored for a 2-0 lead.
Sierra Santana reaches on an error to give West Haven a 2-0 lead in the second inning. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
“It was great getting that early lead,” Morgillo said.
The Westies increased the lead to 3-0 with a run in the third inning. With one out, Kial Watts and Katy Hoyt singled, advanced to scoring position on a fly ball to right by Madison Watts and Kial Watts scored on an infield single to short by Morrell.
Lauren Caciopoli had 2 hits and scored twice in West Haven's victory over Westhill, May 30, 2013. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
“We had a lot of hits,” Biondi said. “We had people on base all day.”
Westhill mounted its biggest threat in the bottom of the inning as Morgan Kurtz reached on an infield single and Tammy Wise walked with one out. A fly ball advanced both runners into scoring position, but Morgillo escaped without any damage as she got Kate Brainard on a grounder to second to end the inning.
That was the last bit of offense for Westhill as Morgillo cruised through the rest of the game, retiring the final 12 batters she faced.
“Camdyn pitched a good game,” Biondi said. “We played well. We did not make any errors. We made all the plays.”
After West Haven stranded two runners on base in the fourth, the lead was increased to 5-0 in the sixth. Caciopoli started the rally with a single to center, Severino followed with a bunt single and both scored when Pacapelli doubled to the gap in left center.
“All the younger kids hit well today,” Biondi said. “Marisa had a big hit to drive in two runs.”Kial Watts, Caciopoli and Severino each had 2 hits in the game with Caciopoli scoring twice for West Haven.
Madison Watts makes a catch against Foran, May 30, 2013. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
Katy Hoyt against Westhill, May 30, 2013. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
Camdyn Morgillo takes this pitch to right field, May 30, 2013. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
Camdyn Morgillo throws a pitch in West Haven's 5-2 victory over Amity, May 28, 2013. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
Third Time’s the Charm
Westies avenge 2 earlier season losses with playoff win over Amity
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(May 28, 2013) - Having played Amity twice already during the regular season, both West Haven coach Frank Biondi and star pitcher Camdyn Morgillo felt the two losses could have very easily gone in West Haven’s favor.
Both the coach and his ace relayed that message to the team prior to Tuesday afternoon’s CIAC Class LL state tournament opener in Woodbridge. Morgillo not only did her job from the pitcher’s circle, but the senior delivered the big blow when her double cleared the bases in the second inning as No. 23 West Haven upset No. 10 Amity, 5-2, at rain-soaked Amity High.
West Haven advances to Thursday afternoon’s second round contest either at Westhill or at home against New Milford as the contest was postponed to Wednesday.
West Haven senior Camdyn Morgillo pitches against Amity, May 28, 2013. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
“This is huge for us,” Morgillo said after her team improved to 12-9. “We wanted this really bad. I give both teams a lot of credit to go out and play in those conditions.
“It was not just a struggle pitching. It was tough in the field and batting. It was so hard for all of us. I am glad we came out with the win.”
Read the rest of this article in the Milford-Orange Bulletin here
Sierra Santana runs to make a play against Amity, May 28, 2013. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
Marisa Pacapelli against Amity, May 28, 2013. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
Madison Watts against Amity, May 28, 2013. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
Westies snap Skid
Wild ending leads WH to 3-2 victory
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
MILFORD (May 21, 2013) – Losing five consecutive games, West Haven coach Frank Biondi was looking for something good to fall West Haven’s way. Even the long-time coach could never have expected how Monday afternoon’s battle with Jonathan Law would end.
Attempting to rally from a 2-run deficit, the Eagles looked as if they had tied the score in the bottom of the seventh inning when Stephanie Cameron crossed home plate. When the call was overturned, West Haven hung on to defeat the Eagles, 3-2, at Jonathan Law on Senior Day for the Eagles.
Trailing 3-1 entering the final inning, Law rallied when Steph Peloso and Cameron started the inning with singles off West Haven pitcher Camdyn Morgillo and Jenna Bernard walked to load the bases. After Morgillo struck out Amanda Leone for the first out, Danielle Gray singled to center to score Peloso.
West Haven centerfielder Alexis Severino’s throw was just up the third base line and catcher Katy Hoyt attempted to tag Cameron. Cameron went around the tag to score what appeared to be the tying run.
Read the rest of this article in the Milford-Orange Bulletin here
West Haven seniors (l. to r.) Mariah Michaud, Tifani Gilbert, Katy Hoyt, Camdyn Morgillo, Lauren Caciopoli and Sh'neil Myers. Photo courtesy of Jacki Morgillo.
Westies fall on Senior Night
Loss in ninth inning drops WH to 10-9
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
WEST HAVEN (May 17, 2013) – What started as such a promising season for theWest Haven softball team is slowly slipping away. Losing for the fifth straight contest Friday evening in a 1-0 loss to Amity in 9 innings, West Haven fell to 10-9.
“I am concerned,” West Haven coach Frank Biondi said. “I do not like the way we are playing. We are not getting the clutch hit. We are not playing like we can.”
The loss was even more painful as it came on a night to honor seniors Camdyn Morgillo, Katy Hoyt, Lauren Caciopoli and others for their years of service.
Morgillo did all she could in the loss, limiting the Spartans to just 1 unearned run, 5 hits, striking out 3 and walking 5. In the end, it was West Haven’s inability to push across the winning run which would prove to be the difference.
“It’s hard right now,” Morgillo said of the losing streak. “We got a tough break. I am proud of everyone. We just have to keep a positive attitude. Everyone gave their all.”
The Westies had only 3 hits in the game off Amity freshman pitcher Katie Koshes, but still had opportunities late in the game to steal a victory.
In the bottom of the sixth, Alexis Severino reached on an error, but was stranded when Koshes retired the next three batters. In the seventh, Hoyt reached on an error with one out, but went no further as Madison Watts struck out and Jolie Morrell grounded out to end the frame.
West Haven’s best opportunity to get on the scoreboard came in the eighth inning as Severino singled with one out and Sierra Santana followed with another single.
Severino went too far past second and was thrown out on the play, but Santana stole second and third. Santana would go no further as Koshes clipped the outside corner to strike out Marissa Pacapelli to end the threat.
With the opportunities squandered, West Haven watched as Amity capitalized in the ninth. With two outs, Heather Watt walked, went to second on an error and scored when Krista Reynolds singled to right.
“I thought both pitchers threw well,” Biondi said. “Their girl was tough.”
The Westies still had a chance in the bottom of the inning with the heart of the order up, but Koshes got Morgillo on a fly ball to right, retired Kial Watts on a fly ball to center and capped the inning by getting Hoyt on a fly ball to left to end the game.Koshes finished the game with a complete game three-hitter, striking out 10 and walking just one.
Harkness tames Westies
Lack of clutch hitting leads to WH loss
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
WEST HAVEN (May 15, 2013) – Despite losing to Mercy Tuesday afternoon, Foran’s Marissa Bruno felt her last swings of the game were right where she wanted them. Taking the same approach to West Haven one day later, Bruno did not miss a beat.
Coming within a double of hitting for the cycle, the Foran shortstop ripped a 2-run home run in the third inning as the Lions defeated West Haven 4-2 at Biondi Field Wednesday evening.
“It was my first career home run,” Bruno said. “Before the game, my swing felt so good. It felt golden. I just brought it into the game.
“We are working together as a team. It gives us confidence. We are communicating better."
Read the rest of this article in the Milford-Orange Bulletin here
Sloppy Loss
Five errors prove costly in 7-3 loss to Amity
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
ORANGE (May 13, 2013) – Sometimes it is not the amount of hits you get, but when you get them. The Amity softball team was proof of this Monday evening.
Getting only 5 hits against West Haven pitcher Camdyn Morgillo, the Spartans used a leadoff homer by Julie Luce in the fifth inning to tie the game, then combined 3 hits with 3 West Haven errors in the sixth inning to score 4 times in a 7-3 victory at Old Tavern Road Complex.
“It is not hard to get us going,” Luce said. “It just takes a hit like mine to get us going. It is not just one person. We can all do it.
“This is a big win for us. West Haven is a tough team to beat. We see all the teams they play and beat. We expected them to play like they did. We brought it and played hard.”
The win allowed Amity to win its second straight contest and improve to 13-5, whileWest Haven dropped its third straight and fell to 10-7.
Read the rest of this article in the Milford-Orange Bulletin here.
No Mercy
Westies fall to Tigers, 8-2
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(May 10, 2013) – Knowing the remaining part of the schedule was filled with tough opponents, the West Haven softball team was looking forward to playing these top teams. Two games into this stretch and the Westies have not added to the win column.
After losing to Jonathan Law in disappointing fashion Monday, West Haven fell to Mercy, 8-2, at Biondi Field Friday evening. With the loss, West Haven dropped to 10-6 on the year.
"We gave them a good effort," West Haven coach Frank Biondi said. "We made a couple of bad mistakes. It was not a bad effort. We just got beat."
The Westies trailed early and were never able to come back. In the first inning, Astin Donovan led off with a triple, and, after West Haven's Camdyn Morgillo got the next two outs, Madison Derita doubled to left to score Donovan for a 1-0 lead.
After West Haven went down in order in the first, Mercy pulled away with 4 runs in the second.
Stephanie Dean led off with a single, stole second and third and scored on a single for a 2-0 lead. Run-scoring singles by Donovan, Stephanie Mangiamelli and Derita increased the Mercy lead to 5-0.
Morgillo did not allow a run over the next three innings, giving the Westies an opportunity to cut into the deficit. In the second, Madison Watts singled with two outs but was left stranded.
In the third, the Westies got on the scoreboard when Sierra Santana blasted a long homer to left centerfield to cut the deficit to 5-1.
The Westies then had a golden opportunity to get back in the game in the fourth inning. Morgillo led off with a single, Kial Watts reached on an error and Katy Hoyt was denied of a hit which turned into a force at third. With two on and one out, the Westies failed to score when Madison Watts popped out and Jolie Morrell grounded out to end the frame.
"We did not hit the ball well," Biondi said. "We had people on base all night long. We just didn't get the big hit."
After Mercy increased the lead to 7-1 with 2 runs in the sixth, West Haven settled for one run in the bottom of the inning.
Marisa Pacapelli led off with a double to left and Morgillo singled. After Kial Watts lined into a double play, Hoyt reached on an error to score Pacapelli.
"This is the first game we played all year where we can say we just got beat," Biondi said. "All the other games we lost could have gone either way. We just got whipped."
Morgillo led West Haven with 2 hits in the loss.
Law rallies past West Haven
Westies fall 2-1 in 10 innings
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
WEST HAVEN (May 6, 2013) – Three outs away from a tough loss, the Jonathan Law softball team did what it has done all year. Behind the pitching of Jenna Bernard and the hitting of Danielle Gray, the Eagles rallied with a run in the seventh and another in the tenth to defeat West Haven 2-1 in 10 innings at Biondi Field Monday evening.
Trailing 1-0 in the seventh inning, Gray led off with a line drive which carried over the head of West Haven centerfielder Alexis Severino. Gray raced to third to start the inning and scored when Sam Murphy grounded to short.
“We feel like we are always in it,” Gray said after her team improved to 10-5. “We never give up. We have played in a lot of one-run games. We feel we can come back.”
Said Law coach Melanie Paolini, “Danielle Gray is probably the player that takes batting more serious than anybody. She hits a big triple and scores the tying run. She got on base to start the rally and we capitalized."
Read the rest of this article in the Milford-Orange Bulletin here
Solid Effort
Morgillo tosses 4-hitter as WH improves to 10-4
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(May 3, 2013) – After falling to Branford and North Haven in the midst of a three-game losing streak, the West Haven softball team needed a spark to get the season back on track. Four consecutive victories later and the Westies are once again moving in the right direction.
Riding the 4-hit pitching of Camdyn Morgillo and the hitting of Katy Hoyt and Morgillo, the Westies defeated Hamden 5-0 Friday afternoon at Biondi Field.
Hoyt finished the game with 2 doubles and a single, Madison Watts had a triple and drove in two runs and Morgillo added a double and single as the Westies continued to improve their postseason seeding.
Camdyn Morgillo had two hits in a 5-0 victory over Hamden, May 3, 2013. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
“We played very well, excellent actually,” West Haven coach Frank Biondi said. “Anybody can beat anybody. You can not take anything for granted.”
West Haven scored all the runs it would need with 3 runs in the first inning. Sierra Santana led off with a single off Hailey Trasacco, moved to second on Marisa Pacapelli’s sacrifice, third on Morgillo’s grounder to third and scored when Kial Watts reached on an error.
After Katy Hoyt singled to short, Madison Watts tripled to score Kial Watts and Hoyt for a 3-0 lead.
Madison Watts tripled to score a pair in West Haven's 5-0 victory over Hamden, May 3, 2013. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
The Westies increased the lead to 5-0 with 2 more runs in the third inning. Morgillo opened the inning with a double to center and scored on Hoyt’s one-out double. After Madison Watts lined out for the second out, Jolie Morrell singled to left to score Hoyt.
Jolie Morrell singles to score Katy Hoyt in the third inning against Hamden, May 3, 2013. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
“Our offense has come around,” Biondi said. “We are getting it from everybody. It is not just one person.”
Morgillo’s only trouble came in the first inning when Kelly O’Connor tripled with two outs, but Morgillo recorded her third strikeout of the inning to escape without any trouble.
Camdyn Morgillo tossed a 4-hitter and struck out 9 in a 5-0 win over Hamden, May 3, 2013. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
Hamden had runners on second and third with two outs in the second but Morgillo got a grounder to end the frame. Morgillo was never threatened again as she faced the minimum 12 batters over the final 4 innings.
“She was on her game,” Biondi said. “She threw the ball well. Everyone was involved.”
Santana and Morgillo each finished with 2 hits and a run scored, while Hoyt finished with 3 hits, 2 runs scored and a run batted in.
Katy Hoyt laces the second of her 2 doubles in a 5-0 win over Hamden, May 3, 2013. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
Holding On
Westies rally in eighth to beat Pacers
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(May 1, 2013) – While it was not the way West Haven head coach Frank Biondi drew it up, the West Haven softball team rallied to defeat Sacred Heart Academy, 8-7, in eight innings Wednesday afternoon in Hamden.
While the eighth inning rally may sound great, the rally was necessary as the Pacers scored 7 times in the bottom of the seventh to even the game at 7. After West Havenpitcher Camdyn Morgillo cruised through 6 innings, allowing only a bunt single in the first and a double in the third, Sacred Heart rallied in the seventh.
Amanda Beecher led off the seventh with a single, Courtney Nowicki walked and Jenna DeMartino singled to right to score Beecher. Molly Flowers followed with a long homer to left to bring the Pacers within 7-4.
Angela Onofrio followed with a double, Emily Velez singled and Sierra Gallagi hit a shot down the line in right to score two more runs. When Becca Marks squeezed in a run, the Pacers tied the game at 7.
“She cruised through the first six innings,” Biondi said of Morgillo. “They didn’t miss in the seventh.”
The Westies showed plenty of heart in the eighth inning, scoring the winning run. Jolie Morrell started the winning rally with a single to center, Lauren Caciopoli walked and Alexis Severino singled to load the bases.
After Sierra Santana popped out, Marisa Pacapelli capped her big day, which also included 2 hits, with a a sacrifice fly to left to score Morrell.
Nowicki singled to lead off the eighth but Morgillo got DeMartino on a grounder to Morgillo, Flowers on a pop out and recorded a strikeout with the winning run on base to end the game.
“Everyone contributed,” Biondi said. “Everyone was a part of this. It was definitely a team effort.”
West Haven jumped on Flowers with three runs in the first three innings. The Westies took a 1-0 lead in the first as Santana led off with a double to center, moved to third on Pacapelli’s sacrifice and scored on Morgillo’s double to right.
In the third, Pacapelli and Morgillo had one-out singles and Kial Watts doubled to score Pacapelli for a 2-0 lead. Katy Hoyt’s grounded plated another run, giving the Westies a 3-0 advantage.
West Haven looked as if it blew the game open in the fifth with four more runs. Pacapelli and Morgillo led off with singles to put runners on the corners before Kail Watts grounded out to score Pacapelli.
Hoyt followed with a single to put runners on the corners and Madison Watts tripled down the line in right to score two more runs. When Morrell’s grounder scored Madison Watts, West Haven led 7-0.
“This was a big game,” Biondi said. “They had four losses. Everyone is right in the middle of it (league race).”
Morgillo allowed 7 runs, striking out 7 and walking 4. Morgillo had 3 hits and a run batted in, while Pacapelli added 2 hits, a run batted in and 2 runs scored.
Morgillo heading North
Star pitcher heading to Springfield College
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(April 29, 2013) – After a long and grueling process, West Haven senior pitcher Camdyn Morgillo has finally decided on her next destination. When the fall semester rolls around, Morgillo will attend Springfield College in Massachusetts.
The decision came down to the University of New Haven and Springfield. Morgillo made the hard decision and knows she is headed to the right place.
"I like that it is not too far and not too close," Morgillo said Monday afternoon. "UNH is literally seven minutes away from my house. Springfield is about an hour.
"Springfield had what I wanted to major in and that was Movement and Sports Studies. I want to major in physical education and minor in coaching. As soon as I stepped on the campus, I loved it. Everyone was really nice. Everyone who has attended Springfield or attends there now loves it. I think it is a good fit for me."
An honors student, Morgillo will go to Springfield on an academic scholarship. She also hopes to play softball there.
Camdyn Morgillo will take her talents to Springfield College next year. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
With the decision made, Morgillo feels the weight of the world has been lifted off her.
"I feel the past two or three weeks have been the most stressful," Morgillo said. "It is a huge weight lifted off my shoulders.
"My mom and dad helped a lot. I know they didn't want me to go too far away and at the same time, they wanted it to be the right fit for me."
The decision for Morgillo to attend Springfield is part of a span of 12 months which saw the star pitcher miss most of her junior year with a leg injury, rehabilitate the leg through the winter and return her senior season where she has led the team to an 8-4 start and a berth in the postseason.
With her college decision out of the way, Morgillo is ready to help her team make a run deep into the postseason.
THE HOME OF WEST HAVEN SPORTS
WestieBlue
All-State Players - Stacey Dixon '93; Tammy Hackley '93; Kim DeMayo '94; Angelina Sousa '94; Shannon Curren '95; Laurie DelGrego '98; Liz Vaccino '98; Lindsay Connor '03; Vicci Duane '04; Krystle Denny '04; Shannon Connor '09, '10; Elaina Maio '10; Joanna Fekieta '11; Camdyn Morgillo '13
Retired Numbers - Tammy Hackley (Class of 1993) #13
Congratulations to Camdyn Morgillo on being named to the 2013 Coaches Association All-State team.
Congratulations also to Morgillo, Sierra Santana and Katy Hoyt on being named to the 2013 Southern Connecticut Conference All-Quinnipiac Division team.
Postseason Bound
Morgillo’s no-hitter leads WH to 8th win of year over Hillhouse
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
WEST HAVEN (April 29, 2013) – Having fought its way through a 3-game losing streak, the West Haven softball team is on its way to the postseason. Winners of two straight, including Monday afternoon’s 15-0 win over Hillhouse in a game stopped after 5 innings due to the mercy rule, West Haven improved to 8-4.
“It feels good to qualify,” West Haven coach Frank Biondi said of the postseason. “I am not one to believe in win eight games and get in. It feels good to get in.”
Camdyn Morgillo, who announced she will attend Springfield College, came within a first inning hit batter of a perfect game as she struck out 10 and did not walk a batter.
“She threw the ball well,” Biondi said of Morgillo. “They did not hit anything hard off her.”
Said Morgillo, “After last year, it is really good. It is really exciting for us. That was our goal at the beginning of the season. Now we have to move on to our next goals.
“It (no-hitter) is more special because it is the win to get us in. We walked into the game not underestimating any team. I had to hit my spots. It is an accomplishment.”
West Haven had only 9 hits in the game, but took advantage of 11 walks in the victory. Sierra Santana led the offense with 2 hits, 4 runs scored and 2 runs batted in.
Kial Watts had 2 hits, drove in 5 runs and scored once, Katy Hoyt added 2 hits, 2runs scored and a run batted in and Marisa Pacapelli scored 3 times.
Hoyt’s triple to lead off the third inning extended her streak of having a hit in every game thus far for the Westies. West Haven spread the offense as 8 of the 9 players in the starting lineup scored at least one run.
“Sierra had a great game,” Biondi said. “She got on 4 times, drove in 2 runs and scored 4 times. Kial Watts had a great day and Katy Hoyt did as well.”
West Haven took a 2-0 lead in the first inning and never looked back. Santana and Morgillo sandwiched walks around a Hillhouse error to load the bases before Wattsdoubled to score Santana and Pacapelli.
The Westies increased the lead to 4-0 in the second inning as Alexis Severino singled and scored on Santana’s double and Santana scored when Morgillo reached on an error.
After Hoyt tripled and scored on Jolie Morrell’s ground out in the third, West Haveniced the game with 10 runs in the fourth.
Sending 15 batters to the plate, the Westies scored when Watts walked to force in Santana, Hoyt singled to score Pacapelli, Madison Watts walked to force in Crista Brennan, Lauren Caciopoli walked to score Kial Watts and Hoyt scored on Santana’s walk. Madison Watts and Caciopoli also scored o walks, Kyle Watts doubled in Santana and Pacapelli and Madison Watts walked to drive in the final run.
Santana leads Westies past Lyman Hall
Junior homers in 7-1 win
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(April 26, 2013) – With three games slipping away, the West Haven softball team saw an impressive start to the season fading away. Needing a win in the worst way, the Westies responded.
Behind the offense of Sierra Santana, Kial Watts and Katy Hoyt, West Haven scored six times in the last three innings and defeated Lyman Hall, 7-1, at Prageman Park in a game dedicated to benefitting Sandy Hook Friday evening.
With both teams wearing a form of green and white in honor of Newtown, the Westies improved to 7-4 after snapping a three-game skid. West Haven will have a chance to qualify for the state tournament Monday afternoon against Hillhouse.
“This was a game we really needed,” West Haven coach Frank Biondi said. “We let theNorth Haven game get away. It was important for us. We got our seventh win. We need one more.”
Santana led the West Haven offense with a single, double, homer, two runs scored and a run batted in. Watts had 2 hits, scored 3 times and drove in a run, while Hoyt had 2 hits, drove in 2 runs and scored once.
With the game even at one entering the fifth inning, West Haven took the lead for good. Santana provided the go-ahead run with a long home run to left for a 2-1 lead.
“It was as high as it was far,” Biondi said.
West Haven extended the lead to 5-1 with three runs in the sixth. Kial Watts opened the inning with a walk, Hoyt reached on an error and Jolie Morrell reached on an infield single to load the bases with one out.
Lauren Caciopoli gave the Westies a 3-1 lead with a sacrifice fly to right to scoreWatts and Alexis Severino reached on an error to score Hoyt and Morrell.
“We played well,” Biondi said. “We hit the ball hard. We played excellent defense. It was a good win for us.”
The Westies scored two more runs in the seventh for a 7-1 lead. Santana led off with a single, stole second and scored on Watts’ two-out single. Hoyt followed with a double to score Watts for the final run of the game.
West Haven took a 1-0 lead in the second inning as Watts doubled to center, went to third on a passed ball and scored on Hoyt’s single to center.
The Trojans evened the game in the fourth inning when Lindsay DelGrego doubled to drive in a run after West Haven pitcher Camdyn Morgillo walked a pair of batters. Morgillo pitched a complete game, striking out 3, walking 8 and allowing just 2 hits.
Indians rally past Westies
WH squanders scoring opportunities in 3-2 loss
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(April 24, 2013) – With two teams in the midst of losing streaks, something had to give Wednesday evening when North Haven traveled to Biondi Field to face West Haven.
For coach Sally Maher and her Indians, a bounce finally went their way for the first time in four games. Taking advantage of a pair of walks in the sixth inning, the Indians scored three times to overcome a 2-0 deficit and defeated the Westies 3-2.
The win snapped North Haven’s three-game losing skid and helped North Havenqualify for the state tournament with an 8-3 record.
“This was a huge win for us,” Maher said. “It is a confidence booster for us. We went through a tough stretch and West Haven is a tough team as well. This is big. It gets us in the tournament.”
The Westies, on the other hand, lost for the third straight game and fell to 6-4 after what was a promising start to the season with 6 wins in the first 7 games.
Read the rest of this article in the Milford-Orange Bulletin here
Slippery Slope
Mistakes again costly in loss to Branford
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(April 22, 2013) – Coming off a loss to Mercy in which the Westies uncharacteristically hurt themselves, Monday afternoon’s contest against a struggling Branford team seemed to be the right remedy for the Westies.
Unfortunately for West Haven, it was more of the same 48 hours later as the Hornets took advantage of a pair of West Haven errors and defeated the Westies 3-1. With the second straight loss, West Haven fell to 6-3.
“I am disappointed in the way we played,” West Haven coach Frank Biondi said. “I am very disappointed. We have to help her (pitcher Camdyn Morgillo). She is not going to throw a shutout every game.”
What Biondi was referring to was poor defensive play by the Westies and a lack of clutch hitting as well. West Haven had quality scoring chances in the game but could not get the timely hit.
The first inning was a sign of things to come for the Westies all the way around. In the top of the inning, Sierra Santana reached on an error to start the game and stole second, but never went any farther as Alexis Severino struck out, Camdyn Morgillo grounded out and Kial Watts popped out to end the inning.
The Hornets would score all the runs they needed in the bottom of the inning. A two-out single started the rally before a triple by Marissa Guglielmi scored one run and Guglielmi scored on an error for a 2-0 lead.
After West Haven stranded Santana on second in the third inning, Branford took a 3-0 lead in the bottom of the inning.
A West Haven error and a walk opened the frame before Morgillo got the next two outs. With two strikes, Kelsey Austin singled to drive in a run and put the pressure on the Westies.
West Haven continued to squander scoring opportunities in the fourth inning. KialWatts and Katy Hoyt each singled with one out and advanced to scoring position. They would go no farther as Madison Watts grounded back to pitcher Megan Ferraro and Jolie Morrell struck out to end the frame.
The Westies had one final shot at getting back in the game in the sixth inning. Severino led off with a walk, Morgillo singled and Kial Watts followed with a single to score Severino to cut the deficit to 3-1.
With runners on second and third, West Haven could not get the clutch hit as Ferraro got Hoyt on a pop out, then got Madison Watts on a grounder to first before retiring Morrell on a ground out to end the threat.
“We did not get the big hits,” Biondi said. “We had our chances.”
Morgillo finished strong for the Westies as she retired the final 8 batters and 9 of the last 10. Morgillo struck out 8 and allowed just 1 earned run in the loss.
Kial Watts led the West Haven offense with a pair of hits.
No Mercy
Errors costly in 3-1 defeat
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(April 19, 2013) – Winners of six straight contests, the West Haven softball team was eagerly awaiting its match up with Mercy Friday afternoon in Middletown. Using a formula of timely hitting and solid defense in the streak, the Westies were looking for more of the same.
Unfortunately for West Haven, lucky number seven was not in the cards. Taking advantage of two West Haven errors, Mercy scored three unearned runs and defeated the Westies 3-1 Friday afternoon.
The loss snapped West Haven’s steak of six wins in a row and dropped the Westies to 6-2 on the season.
“They put a lot of pressure on you defensively with their slap hitting,” West Havencoach Frank Biondi said. “We did a good job for the most part. We made two errors and they took advantage.”
After Madison Watts was stranded on first after she singled in the second, West Havenwatched as the Tigers took a 1-0 lead in the third.
Astin Donovan reached on an error on a bunt attempt, stole second, moved to third on a ground out and scored on a passed ball for a 1-0 lead.
“We did a good job,” Biondi said. “Two errors beat us.”
West Haven responded in the fourth, tying the game at one. Camdyn Morgillo singled with one out and after Kial Watts hit into a force out, Katy Hoyt doubled to score Kial Watts to even the game at one.
“We hit the ball all day,” Biondi said. “They just didn’t fall at times.”
The tie was short-lived. Two singles and a walk loaded the bases with one out in the bottom of the inning. With two strikes, Donovan slapped a ball which Morgillo fielded.
While falling down, Morgillo threw to Jolie Morell at first but Morrell could not handle the throw, allowing two runs to score for a 3-1 Mercy lead.
“I told the kids we played just as well,” Biondi said. “We did not take advantage of our opportunities. They did. We did not execute when we needed to.”
That would be all Mercy needed as the Westies were retired in order in the fifth and seventh innings. In the sixth inning, Sierra Santana singled, moved to second on Alexis Severino’s sacrifice but never went further as Morgillo hit a fly ball to right and Kial Watts grounded out to end the inning.
Mercy’s Mary Adametz limited West Haven to just 4 hits in the game.
Hit Parade
Westies pound 13 hits in 9-0 win over Hamden
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
HAMDEN (April 16, 2013) – With a game against division foe Mercy just three days away, West Haven coach Frank Biondi may have been concerned his team would look past Tuesday afternoon’s contest against a struggling Hamden team.
Just three batters into the game, senior Camdyn Morgillo showed her coach there would be none of that. Morgillo’s run-scoring double in the first inning started the offensive barrage as the Westies had 13 hits in a 9-0 victory over Hamden at Hamden High.
Sierra Santana and Alexis Severino each had three hits and two runs batted in and Santana scored three times. Morgillo and Kial Watts each had a pair of hits and Marisa Pacapelli scored twice as West Haven improved to 6-1 on the year and 2-0 in the Quinnipiac Division.
“Before the games, we have a lot more confidence,” Santana said. “We click better this year. We know each other.
“This is a big win for us. It is another division win and we are 2-0 in the division. We are one game closer to the states. This is a good win for us.”
While the bats were pouring out the hits, Morgillo cruised from the pitching circle. The senior ace allowed only five hits, struck out 5 and walked just one batter. Morgillo was in trouble just once with Hamden having a pair of runners in scoring position in the fifth, but Morgillo got Briah Reilly on a comebacker to end the threat.
“She pitched well,” Biondi said. “We got some good efforts out there today. You can see it in the kids and their attitudes. They are confident. Today was a good win for us.”
West Haven, who won its sixth straight game, opened the scoring in the first inning as Severino singled with one out and scored on Morgillo’s long double.
The Westies increased the margin to 6-0 with five runs in the second inning. Madison Watts reached on an error, Jolie Morrell walked and Pacapelli walked with one out to load the bases.
Santana gave West Haven a 2-0 lead as her single scored Morrell, and Morgillo laced a two-out single to score Lauren Caciopoli and Pacapelli for a 4-0 lead.
West Haven put the game away one batter later. Kial Watts drilled a double to right, scoring Santana and Kristen Domek, who came in to run for Morgillo.
Santana was part of West Haven’s rally in the fourth inning as well as she singled with one out and scored on Severino’s single.
The Westies closed the scoring with two more runs in the sixth. Pacapelli led off with a walk and scored on Santana’s long triple to the gap in right. Severino followed with a single to left to score Santana for a 9-0 lead.
“We have good hitters in the lineup,” Severino said. “Everyone can hit. It feels amazing to be 6-1. We work hard.”
Extra Effort
Hoyt, Morgillo lift Westies past Sheehan
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(April 15, 2013) – The West Haven softball team is starting to make a habit of dramatic endings. Less than a week after playing 13 innings in a win over Sacred Heart Academy, the Westies needed 8 innings to defeat Sheehan, 1-0, Monday afternoon in Wallingford.
This win came after plenty of excitement in the final two innings, where the Titans had a runner on third with no one out in each inning but failed to score.
West Haven capitalized, using a sacrifice fly by Katy Hoyt in the eighth inning and a gutty effort by Camdyn Morgillo in the bottom of the inning to lead West Haven to the victory.
“It was a good game,” West Haven coach Frank Biondi said after his team improved to 5-1. “We had people on but could not score. We have won some close games. I am happy with that. We play good defense.”
With the game scoreless in the bottom of the seventh inning, Morgillo walked the leadoff hitter, who stole second and moved to third on a sacrifice.
With runners on second and third, Morgillo got a line drive to Kial Watts at third and a grounder to Jolie Morrell at first to end the frame.
With the momentum on their side, the Westies capitalized. Morgillo led off the eighth against Sheehan pitcher Kayla Humphrey with a triple and Kial Watts walked and advanced to second.
Katy Hoyt followed with a fly ball to center, scoring Morgillo for a 1-0 lead. West Haven could not bring home Kial Watts as Madison Watts’ grounder moved Kial Watts to third before Morrell popped to first to end the threat.
Katy Hoyt, seen here against Hand, delivered the only run in West Haven's 1-0 victory over Sheehan in 8 innings. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
Sheehan had one last opportunity to even the game and looked to be in good shape to do so in the bottom of the inning.
An error to start the inning had Sheehan with a runner on third with no one out. With runners on second and third, Morgillo escaped the jam as she got a grounder to Marisa Pacapelli at second for the first out, another grounder to Kial Watts at third for the second out and one final grounder to Morrell at first to end the game.
“We were in and out of trouble all game,” Biondi said. “We were able to get out of them. I am happy with the win.”
The Westies had their opportunities before the eighth inning but could not get the clutch hit. Morrell led off the third with a single and Lauren Caciopoli walked, but neither advanced as Pacapelli hit a fly ball to center, Sierra Santana followed with another fly ball to center and Alexis Severino grounded to second for the final out.
In the fifth Caciopoli singled with one out and Santana followed suit one out later. The Westies failed to cash in as Severino popped out to end the frame.
The Westies threatened again in the sixth as Hoyt and Madison Watts singled with two outs, but Morrell grounded to third to end the inning.
“We hit the ball after the first couple of innings,” Biondi said. “We left on eight or nine.”
Sheehan also had its scoring chances. The Titans stranded a runner on second in the third and fifth innings, before squandering two golden opportunities in the final two innings.
Morgillo was uncharacteristically wild in the win. The senior ace allowed just two hits and struck out 7, but also walked 3 batters and hit 4 more.
Westies outlast SHA
Morgillo strikes out 23 in 13-inning win
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(April 10, 2013) – West Haven ace Camdyn Morgillo admittedly was getting tired as the innings continued Wednesday afternoon. Refusing to give in, Morgillo put on one of the best pitching displays seen in a long time as she struck out 23 batters in a 3-2West Haven victory over Sacred Heart Academy in 13 innings at Biondi Field.
If that was not enough for the Westies, Morgillo drove home Sierra Santana with the winning run on an infield single as West Haven improved to 4-1 on the year.
“I was getting tired but I knew I had to give it my all,” Morgillo said. “This is huge for us. It was a very good game. I am speechless right now.
“We knew who we were facing. I give her (Molly Flowers) a lot of credit. She is a great pitcher and she is coming off an injury too. I can relate to her.”
After Morgillo pulled off her own magic acts to escape some late inning jams, the Westies finally won the contest in the 13th inning. Santana led off with a single and went all the way to third when Alexis Severino’s sacrifice attempt was misplayed for an error.
With runners on the corners, Morgillo did not disappoint. Her hard hit grounder was fielded by a diving Courtney Nowicki at third, but Santana easily scored the winning run.
“This is big,” Santana said. “Sacred Heart is our rival and it is a division game. It was a good game. I knew the outside pitch was coming and I just adjusted my swing. We got a good bunt and I just went on contact. “
The game would not have gone well into extra innings if not for the heroics of Morgillo and Kial Watts in the sixth inning. Morgillo reached on an error to start the frame and Watts made Sacred Heart pay the price when she drilled a double to deep center to score the tying run.
“This was a tough game,” Watts said. “It feels pretty good to win this game. This is a good start for us and I know it means a lot to the seniors.”
Things did not start particularly well for the Westies as the first two Sacred Heart batters in the game reached and both scored for a 2-0 lead. That was all for the Pacers as Morgillo retired the side in order over the next five innings.
Sacred Heart’s next base runner came in the seventh inning when Nowicki’s single snapped a string of 20 straight batters retired by Morgillo. The West Haven ace responded by striking out Jenna DeMartino to end the inning.
“This was probably one of the best pitching performances I have ever seen,” West Haven coach Frank Biondi said. “She has guts.
“To be 4-1 is terrific. This win was big because it gives us a three-game edge over .500.”
Becca Marks walked with two outs in the ninth but Morgillo retired Amanda Beecher on a ground ball to the circle. Morgillo then did her best work in the tenth inning.
Nowicki led off with a double, DeMartino singled and Molly Flowers walked to load the bases with no one out. Morgillo took care of business as she struck out Angela Onofrio swinging, Cameron Maselli looking and got Emily Velez on a fly ball to right to end the threat.
Marks doubled with one out in the eleventh, but Morgillo got Beecher on a ground out and Nowicki on a fly ball to Severino in center to end the frame.
West Haven had a golden opportunity to win the game in the eleventh. Katy Hoyt tripled with two outs but Flowers got Madison Watts to fly to left to end the inning.
“Kial Watts did a nice job today,” Biondi said. “Katy Hoyt hit well as did Jolie (Morrell) and Marisa (Pacapelli).”
Kial Watts led West Haven with a triple, double, run scored and run driven in. Marisa Pacapelli also had two hits in the win for the Westies.
No Looking Back
Westies improve to 3-1 with win over Guilford
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(April 8, 2013) – If there were any questions on whether the West Haven softball team was different from last year, those doubts can go away. Getting clutch hitting, solid defense and the brilliant pitching of Camdyn Morgillo, the Westies have gotten off to a quick start in 2013.
The Westies stuck to the formula Monday afternoon. Morgillo had a pair of hits and drove in a run and Jolie Morrell tripled to drive in two more as West Haven defeatedGuilford 6-4 at Biondi Field.
While Morgillo allowed 9 hits, most of which did not leave the infield, the senior struck out 12 and was there when the team needed her most.
This time for Morgillo, it was her bat which spoke the loudest. With the game even at four in the bottom of the fourth after Guilford tied the game in the top of the inning, Morgillo gave her team the lead for good.
With one out, Marisa Pacapelli singled to center, Sierra Santana walked and both advanced on Alexis Severino’s sacrifice.
Morgillo gave West Haven the lead for good when she singled to score Pacapelli for a 5-4 advantage. The Westies scored again in the inning on a Guilford error for the 6-4 lead.
“It was nice to score,” West Haven coach Frank Biondi said. “We have not been scoring in our first few games. We have left a lot of runners on base.”
With the lead, Morgillo allowed a runner in each of the final three innings, but was never in trouble. Morgillo allowed a two-out walk in the fifth but used a strikeout to end the frame.
In the sixth, an infield single started the frame before Morgillo sandwiched two comebackers around a strikeout to end the inning. Morgillo ended the game by striking out two of the last three batters.
“I thought Camdyn threw the ball well,” Biondi said.
West Haven (3-1) scored first in the game as Santana led off with a blast to the gap in right, which hit the top of the blue plastic on the fence, for a leadoff triple. Severino grounded to short to score Santana for a 1-0 lead.
The Westies increased the lead to 4-0 in the second as Katy Hoyt led off with a double to center, Madison Watts walked and Morrell continued driving in runs with a triple to left to score Hoyt and Watts. Lauren Caciopoli followed with a single to right to score Morrell for a 4-0 lead.
“We hit the ball very well today,” Biondi said. “Sierra hit the top of the wall. Katy short-hopped the fence. We hit a lot of shots. It was good to see us swing the bats.”
Guilford stormed back in the game as a bunt single and a triple by Gabie Lanouette cut the deficit to 4-1. Lanouette scored on an infield single to get Guilford within 4-2.
The Indians tied the game in the fourth. With two outs, a walk and two singles loaded the bases for Francesca Zuppardi who singled to right, knotting the game at 4.
“This is certainly a good start,” Biondi said. “We are starting to get a gap at 3-1. That is big for us. What I liked is we only struck out twice. That is important for us.”
Moving Forward
Morgillo, Hoyt and Morrell lead Westies to 1-0 win over Shelton
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(April 6, 2013) – The goal of the West Haven softball team for the 2013 season is very simple. For the Westies, it is all about playing in the postseason.
With just one victory a season ago, the Westies have already surpassed last season’s win total. Riding the right arm of Camdyn Morgillo and the bats of Morgillo, Katy Hoyt and Jolie Morrell, the Westies defeated Shelton 1-0 Saturday afternoon in Shelton.
With the win, West Haven improved to 2-1 on the season. More importantly for the Westies, they are playing well just three games into the season.
“We probably should be 3-0,” West Haven coach Frank Biondi said referring to a loss to Cheshire in the season opener. “But, I am happy we are 2-1. Last year, we only had one win. We already have two wins. We are already better in that.”
Morgillo has been brilliant early in the 2013 season as she posted her second straight shutout with the win over the Gaels. Morgillo was on her game, allowing just 2 hits, striking out 10 and walking only one batter.
Camdyn Morgillo tossed a two-hitter and struck out 10 in a 1-0 win over Shelton, April 6, 2013. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
“She has given up only two runs in three games,” Biondi said of Morgillo. “That’s pretty good. She has thrown two shutouts in a row. She is throwing the ball very well. She had a lot more pop today than she did the other day against Hand.”
The only trouble the West Haven ace encountered came in the second and third innings. In the second inning, Gina Ciambriello tripled with two outs, but Morgillo got a strikeout to end the inning. In the third inning, Morgillo allowed a single, but nothing further.
Morgillo retired the last 14 batters she faced with the last batter reaching in the third inning.
“We knew how important this game was,” Morgillo said. “We just did what we had to do. With the day off, I had more pop. I do feel stronger. Everybody is contributing. It is really big relying on everybody.”
West Haven helped Morgillo with the only offense the Westies needed in the second inning off Shelton pitcher Kaysee Talcik.
With the wind blowing in, Katy Hoyt hit a shot to deep left for a leadoff triple. After Madison Watts struck out, Jolie Morrell hit a hard grounder to short for an out. Hoyt scored on the play to give West Haven a 1-0 lead.
Katy Hoyt continued to hit the ball hard as her triple led to the only run in a 1-0 victory over Shelton, April 6, 2013. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
“She (Hoyt) is doing a really good job this year,” Biondi said. “She hit the ball hard today. Her triple was hit right into the teeth of the wind.
“She is also doing a good job behind the plate. Her and Camdyn work well together. I never see Camdyn shake a pitch off and she has a lot of pitches.”
The rest of the game was a battle between the senior Morgillo and sophomore Talcik. The Westies finished with only four hits in the game, with Morgillo picking up two of those.
Morgillo singled with two outs in the first, but was left stranded when Kial Watts lined to third for the final out. Alex Severino struck out in the fourth and reached on a passed ball on the third strike, but went no further as Morgillo grounded out for the final out of the inning.
The Westies had a chance to increase the lead in the fifth. Lauren Caciopoli tripled with one out, but went no further as Talcik retired Marisa Pacapelli on a liner to third and struck out Sierra Santana for the final out of the inning.
Camdyn Morgillo's bat has been a welcome addition to the lineup as the senior had two more hits against Shelton, April 6, 2013. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
Morgillo was West Haven’s last base runner as she singled with one out in the sixth. Talcik again escaped without any damage as Kial Watts grounded out to third and Hoyt hit a fly ball to left to end the frame.
Katy Hoyt helps lead the Westies to their first win of the year against Hand, April 4, 2013. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
Plenty of Watts
Sisters spark Westies to 2-0 win over Hand
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
WEST HAVEN (April 4, 2013) – Just two days into the regular season, the West Haven softball team was put to the test. After losing a tough contest to Cheshire in the season opener, the Westies were going to show early on whether this was really a different team from last year’s squad which won only one game.
West Haven needed just three innings and the right arm of Camdyn Morgillo to answer that question. Scoring twice in the third inning and riding the 4-hit, 10-strikeout performance of Morgillo, the Westies shut out Hand 2-0 at Biondi Field Thursday afternoon.
“This was a big win for us,” Morgillo said after her team improved to 1-1. “It is our first win since last year. We have more confidence. We know we can play with the good teams.”
Lauren Caciopoli takes a swing against Hand, April 4, 2013. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
West Haven, which squandered numerous scoring opportunities in the season-opening loss to the Rams, had scoring opportunities in the first four innings. The third inning proved to be the charm.
With one out, Kial Watts tripled to deep center and Katy Hoyt reached on an infield single to put runners on the corners. Madison Watts followed with a single to center to score Kial Watts for a 1-0 lead.
Kial Watts slides into third with a triple against Hand, April 4, 2013. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
Read the rest of this article in the Milford-Orange Bulletin here
Camdyn Morgillo helped lead the Westies to their first win of the year, April 4, 2013. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
Cheshire holds off Westies
Rams score in 9th to defeat Westies, 2-1
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(April 3, 2013) - Looking to quickly erase the memories of a 1-19 season from a year ago, the West Haven girls' softball team was in position to upset Cheshire Wednesday afternoon. With plenty of opportunities and a close call at the plate, the Westies could not capitalize and fell to the Rams 2-1 in Cheshire in the season opener for both teams.
"We played well," West Haven coach Frank Biondi said. "They are a tough team. Camdyn (Morgillo) pitched great. It was a tough day, a windy day. I am not happy we lost, but I am pleased with the way we played."
West Haven trailed 1-0 into the sixth inning as Cheshire's Alexa DiLeo hit a home run on an 0-2 pitch in the second inning.
With one out in the sixth, Katy Hoyt reached on an error and scored when Jolie Morrell hit a two-out double to even the game at 1.
"Jolie hit the ball well today," Biondi said. "She hit the ball hard twice."
After Morgillo escaped a bases loaded jam in the seventh inning by getting a pair of ground outs, the Westies had a chance to take the lead in the eighth inning.
Hoyt and Madison Watts singled with one out and both were in scoring position for Morrell. Morrell hit a hard grounder to short and the throw home just beat Hoyt to keep the game even at 1. Lauren Caciopoli struck out to end the frame, giving the Rams a chance to win the game in the bottom of the inning.
Cheshire failed to score in the eighth and after Sierra Santana was stranded on second in the ninth, the Rams capitalized in the bottom of the inning.
Sara Como singled with one out, moved to second on a bunt and scored on a two-out single to left by BryAnna McIntosh to end the game.
"Camdyn did a nice job," Biondi said. "We played a good game. We had people on in every inning but could not get the big hit."
West Haven squandered scoring opportunities from the start. Camdyn Morgillo drew a two-out walk in the first and Kial Watts was hit by a pitch. Neither advanced as Hoyt popped out to end the frame.
In the second inning, Morrell and Lauren Caciopoli singled but both were left stranded when Marisa Pacapelli struck out and Santana popped out. The third inning was more of the same as Kial Watts and Hoyt singled with two outs but were left stranded when Madison Watts struck out.
Santana doubled but did not move in the fifth, Alexis Severino walked but was erased in the seventh and Santana walked in the ninth, moved to second on a passed ball, but was left stranded when Severino struck out and Morgillo grounded to short.
"We struggled to get the big hit all day," Biondi said. "If we put the ball in play, we win the game."
Morrell led the West Haven offense with a singl and a double, Hoyt added two singles and Santana doubled in the loss.
Armed and Ready
Westies look for postseason berth with return of Morgillo
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
Just five games into the 2012 season, the West Haven softball team was already in trouble. Not only had the Westies dropped their first five decisions of the season, ace pitcher Camdyn Morgillo was not feeling herself.
In pain before and after playing, it was revealed Morgillo had a stress fracture of the left leg and would be out indefinitely. That indefinite period of time turned into the rest of the season and the Westies never recovered, finishing with a 1-19 record.
Morgillo’s absence was just one of the reasons for West Haven’s struggles. A lack of offense and timely hits, along with poor play on the defensive side also hurt the Westies.
The Westies hope to change all that this season. With its leader back, West Havengoes from a 1-win season to a team looking to play into June when the postseason arrives.
“Hands down, it was one of the hardest things I have had to do,” Morgillo said of watching her team from the dugout in 2012. “But, I think it has made me a better captain and a better leader. When things are down, I know how to stay positive.
“The whole team has been working really hard. The whole team has been positive. We are working hard on staying positive and correcting the mistakes we made last year.”
The return of Camdyn Morgillo has the Westies feeling good entering the 2013 season. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
Morgillo is obviously the key to the puzzle as she looks to get back to the form which made her the talk of the Southern Connecticut Conference her first two years. As a junior, Morgillo pitched 38 innings before the injury, striking out 45 and allowing just 6 earned runs for a 1.12 earned run average.
“Obviously, they keys to the season are Camdyn (Morgillo) and Katy (Hoyt) being healthy and Sierra (Santana),” West Haven coach Frank Biondi said. “The girls really have a good attitude. We have beaten Lauralton Hall so far, shut out Oxford and have beaten Branford.
“Camdyn coming back is big for us. Sierra did a nice job pitching for us last year, but with Camdyn back, we get to put Sierra back at shortstop which is great for us. She (Santana) can play anywhere. She is a great athlete.”
With the return of Morgillo, Biondi is allowed the chance to put sure-handed junior infielder Sierra Santana back at shortstop to solidify the infield. Santana played shortstop before Morgillo’s injury last season forced her to move to the pitcher’s circle.
As a sophomore, Santana more than held her own. Pitching 100 innings, Santana allowed 101 runs, but a staggering 65 of those runs were unearned. Santana pitched to an earned run average of 2.52, striking out 44 and walking just 19.
Santana will still see time in the pitcher’s circle this season, but her place at shortstop, along with Morgillo pitching, may be the keys to West Haven’s success.
Sierra Santana will anchor the West Haven defense at shortstop and her offense from the top of the order will play a big part in the success of the Westies in 2013. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
The move back to shortstop by Santana helps anchor an infield which will see sophomore Jolie Morrell return to first and sophomore Marisa Pacapelli return to second. The Westies suffered a big blow as Amber Bonewicz, who played third and caught, moved out of town, leaving another void.
That missing piece at the hot corner will be filled by sophomore Kial Watts. Watts will be counted on to provide big hits in the West Haven lineup while anchoring the corner position.
“We have Jolie and Marisa back in the infield and Sierra will play short with Kial at third,” Biondi said. “We think Kial will do a nice job over there.”
The injury to Morgillo allowed Biondi to see a fresh face in the outfield last season when he put a freshman, Alexis Severino, in center. All Severino did was impress as she used her speed to track down just about everything hit her way.
“She did a great job out there last year,” Biondi said of Severino. “She tracked down some balls for us.”
One year later as a sophomore, Severino will be counted on to do the same in the outfield and will also carry a heavier role in the lineup, hitting at the top of the order with Santana. With the speed of Santana and Severino at the top of the order, Biondi will look to create scoring opportunities.
The corner positions in the outfield look to be occupied by senior Lauren Caciopoli in left and freshman Madison Watts in right.
Senior catcher Katy Hoyt will also play a pivotal role in the success of the team. After returning from shoulder surgery last season and coupled with the injury to Morgillo, Hoyt played in the infield as well as catcher.
Senior Katy Hoyt will play a big role in the success of the Westies in 2013 from her catcher position and her spot in the middle of the West Haven lineup. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
“Camdyn (Morgillo) and Katy (Hoyt) are both good hitters,” Biondi said. “Camdyn is a really good hitter and Katy has some power. I will probably use her in the 5-hole.
“I like the lineup. We will be a much better hitting team with Sierra up top and Alex in the two spot. With Sierra and Alex up top, we have the ability to score with Camdyn, Kial and Katy in the middle.”
This season, the battery of Morgillo and Hoyt should be a constant as the Westies look to be strong with the two seniors. Combined with Severino’s speed in center, the solid all-around play of Santana at short and an improved Pacapelli at second, the Westies are strong up the middle this season.
If the Westies get what is expected out of Morgillo, they will be in plenty of low-scoring games. The key for West Haven is to manufacture runs.
Scoring was an issue for the Westies last year as the team scored only 46 runs. Morgillo led the team with a .333 batting average in only 18 at bats and her presence will help the rest of the lineup, which loses the bat of Bonewicz.
“With Kial coming in with Madison, they have fit in so well with the team,” Morgillo said. “I like the chemistry of the team and how the lineup is set up.”
Along with Bonewicz, Santana was the team’s most productive hitter a season ago. Santana hit .290 with a .355 on base percentage, 14 runs scored and 3 runs batted in.
Santana and Severino will have to set the tone for the middle of the lineup which includes Morgillo, Hoyt, Watts and Morrell.
“We want to be competitive,” Biondi said. “We want to be in the mix. If Camdyn comes back as strong as she should be, we should be there. Our goal is to make the (state) tournament.
“I like the way we are swinging the bats. We have played pretty good defense. The kids are swinging the bats very well. Everyone is putting the bat on the ball. We look good one through nine. If we get people on, we will score some runs.”
Biondi will also have several players off the bench. Freshman Alycia Sandella can catch and play the outfield, junior Krista Brennan plays third base, sophomore Jeana Carrano can play second and senior Tifani Gilbert is an infielder. Seniors Mariah Michaud and Sh’neil Myers can play the outfield.
The Westies open the season Wednesday, April 3 at Cheshire at 4 p.m.
SOFTBALL 2013
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