Softball: Shipman keeps Valencia’s league title hopes alive
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It’s kind of weird to think Madison Shipman was a third-grader when Valencia won its first of seven consecutive Foothill League titles. And judging by her clutch performance on Thursday, I’m guessing Shipman wants to make sure the latest generation of Vikings keeps that streak alive.
Shipman hit a bases-loaded, two-run single in the third inning, pushing defending Division I champions Valencia to a 2-1 revenge victory over first-place rival Hart. The victory puts the Vikings in a good position to claim at least a share of their eighth consecutive title, provided they don’t slip up against decent teams from Saugus and West Ranch. There’s also a chance they could take the title outright if Hart inexplicably loses its regular-season finale to Golden Valley.
‘This is definitely a big win for us,’ Valencia Coach Donna Lee said. ‘It’s never easy beating Hart. We still have some business to take care of, but I’m happy with where we stand.’
Lee’s also happy she decided to move Shipman to the leadoff spot.
Until Lee pushed her to the top of the batting order last week, the Tennessee-bound shortstop had gone hitless in five straight games. Since the move, the speedy Shipman has recorded four hits in three games and has become a contributing member of the potent Vikings offense.
‘I love her in that spot,’ Lee said. ‘She’s really responded well, and with the way our seven, eight and nine batters were playing, she was like a cleanup today.’
Shipman’s new home at the top of the order has already helped push the Vikings to the top of the Foothill League -- maybe it’ll push them back to a division title, too.
-- Austin Knoblauch
