The Roadrunner softball team will open the 2024 season with plenty of high hopes, entering the new spring No. 5 in the NJCAA Division III pre-season national rankings.
Coach Steve DePasquale, who enters his 30th season at the helm, is optimistic that his team's experience will carry them to to a successful 2024 campaign. He will be assisted by veteran assistant coach Bill Collins and two new coaches -- former star player Lynnsie Collins and former GCIT coach John Holland.
The club has just two experienced players on the roster, however, they are All-American pitcher Gemma Galloway and All-American infielder Anna Cirucci. And, coupled with a solid group of freshmen recruits, veteran coach Steve DePasquale is once again likely to enjoy a competitive campsign on a national level.
"We have limited experience at most positions, but Gemma (Galloway) and Anna (Cirucci) are two of the best in the nation, and they will provide plenty of guidance to our younger players," DePasquale said. "The team is working hard, so hopefully it's just a matter of time when we put it all together."
The squad opens the season March 12th with a doubleheader on the road at Division II Mercer County Community College. First pitch is set for 2:30 pm in Game 1.
2024 Season Preview
Coach: Steve DePasquale, 30th season; 862-395-3 career record. Led program to Division III National Championships in 2011 and 2012.
Assistant Coaches: Bill Collins, 2023 DIII National Assistance Coach of the Year; Lynnsie Collins, John Holland.
Last Season: In 2023, In 2023, the team compiled a 39-15 record and placed fifth in the nation with win over Brookdale CC. They also captured the North Atlantic District championship.
Season Opener: March 12, doubleheader on the road vs. D-II rival Mercer County Community College. Game 1 first pitch set for 2:30 pm. The home opener will take place March 15th in a 3:30 pm start vs. College of Southern Maryland. The doubleheader vs. CSM is a makeup of a canceled twinbill originally scheduled to be played in Maryland.
Returning players: Gemma Galloway, So., P, Gateway Regional; Anna Cirucci, Fr., 2B, Williamstown;
Newcomers: Angelina Rinaldi, Fr., P, Clearview; Rylee Shappell, Fr., SS, Triton; Cayla Paden, So., OF, Clayton; Karly Weise, Fr., OF, GCIT; Grace Gallagher, Fr., OF, Williamstown; Coral Davidson, Fr., C, Gloucester City; Nayelis Sanchez, Fr., 1B, Vineland; Alexa Lee, Fr., OF, Gloucester City; Grace Huber, Fr., 3B, Highland.
Coach Steve DePasquale on his 2024 Roadrunners: "We have a very tough schedule, but the players have worked hard and are ready for the challenge. There are no easy teams on our schedule, and it should be a lot of fun to watch this team grow and improve as the season progresses."