by TYLER HATHAWAY
WEBSTER, N.Y– Despite coming back from a 3-0 deficit and forcing two extra innings of play, Webster Schroeder lost 5-3 at the hands of Clarence (VI) in the 2024 Class AA Far West Regional on Saturday. Webster Schroeder finishes with a record of 21-3 in a season that saw the Warriors claim their third sectional title in the past four years.
“We didn’t quit,” said Webster Schroeder head coach Meaghan Keil. “We gave everything we could. It’s unfortunate but that was a hell of a softball game. Those were two really good teams. It’s unfortunate that anyone had to lose that game.”
After Clarence plated three runs in the fourth inning to jump out to a 3-0 lead, a solo home run by Bizzie Baglieri followed by a two-RBI single from Leah Murray in the sixth inning knotted the game.
“Let’s take a deep breath,” Keil told her girls before the sixth inning. “We’re there, just keep hacking. Deep breath, and visualize. And they came through.”
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The Warriors had two opportunities with the bases loaded in the bottom of the seventh, but couldn’t get the winning run across home plate. A two-run homer by Ella Zobel in the top of the ninth inning was the decider for Clarence. Ella Harrison, a Rutgers commit, pitched for the Red Devils and struck out 18 batters.
“That girl is really good,” said Keil of Harrison. “They’re a good team. You don’t get this far without being good. And I wish them luck.”
Liana Devalder threw for Webster Schroeder and picked up 12 strikeouts. At the plate, Devalder doubled and scored a run. Kinsley Keil, Emma Juliano, Sarah Ferruzza, and Kenzie Janicek each singled once for the Warriors. Baglieri drew two walks.
“It’s unfortunate but they’ve left such marks on me and they’re such great kids,” said Keil of her team. “It’s just been awesome to see them grow and turn into such awesome young women.”
Clarence (VI) advances to the NYS semifinals for the second straight season. The Red Devils will face off against Kennedy (VIII).
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