CSA U8 takes second at State champs

This past weekend, the Crescenta Sports Association eight-and-under (U8) tournament softball team finished 3-1, second best to Pico Rivera’s 4-0, at the “C” State Tournament. District winners and finalists from all over Southern California traveled to Lancaster to participate in this tournament. CSA opened on Friday with a win over San Marcos 8-4.

Defense was key, with Elise Boyle making a great catch at third, and Michela Labellarte making the catch of the season in left field. Catcher Jacqueline Dall held all runners with her strong arm and smart play.

At the plate Rachel Abboud had a home run, Elise Boyle had a triple, and Hannah Weingarten had a double. Big hitting also included singles by Caity Bouchard, Clancy Burns, and Meghan Henry. On Saturday CSA defeated Jurupa with a 6-5 victory. Jurupa started strong scoring 4 runs in the first.

CSA battled back and with outstanding defense and clutch hitting. Defensive plays of the game were made by catcher Rachel Abboud picking off a runner at 3rd with a great throw and tag out by Elise Boyle. Alexis Abboud made the last out of the game with a throw from left field to first baseman Caity Bouchard.

On Sunday CSA lost their first game of the day to Heartwell 5-6. CSA jumped out to the early lead, scoring five runs in the first, but a tough Heartwell team battled back to tie the score going into the last inning.

In the last inning, Heartwell scored to win the game. Later that day, CSA defeated San Dieguito 13-1. Pitcher Meghan Henry was outstanding and unhittable.

Great defense and strong bats were the difference, including triples by Caity Bouchard, Elise Boyle, and Hannah Weingarten, doubles by Rachel Abboud and Michela Labellarte, and singles by Jacqueline Dall, Clancy Burns, and Meghan Henry. The game ended with relief pitcher Mallory Hill striking out the last batter.

This was the first ever Western District Finalist and State appearance for CSA Softball.