Head Coach Jennie Harp has set quite a lofty precedent in her first two years at the helm of PCC Softball. After earning a World Series bid in just her first season, she immediately followed that up by taking her squad back to Mississippi this year. A tough task no doubt, especially considering she lost 10 sophomores off of last year's team and had a roster this season that only carried 2 sophomores. The future of PCC softball is a very bright one.
The Bulldogs posted an overall record of 33-13 and went 17-7 in conference. For the second straight season, Pitt captured a Region X Tournament Title. This year's club boasted 5 All-Region X members and had a powerful offense that contained 3 players that hit over .400 on the season as well as 6 players that batted over .300. The pitching staff was outstanding, led by Stephanie Villalovos who recorded a 16-5 record and tallied a perfect game this season. Pitt finished the season ranked #17 in the country.
After falling in game 1 of the World Series to Phoenix College, the Bulldogs rallied from down 7 to defeat Kankakee (IL) 11-7. Pitt then closed out the 2018 season after suffering a defeat at the hands of Cowley County (KS).
PITT 11 KANKAKEE (IL) 7
The Bulldogs showed some true grit in their second round elimination game vs the Cavaliers of Kankakee. After falling behind 5-0 in the 3rd inning, Pitt rallied to tack on 4 runs of their own in the bottom of the 3rd. PCC pushed across a run in the 4th inning to tie the game at 5 before KCC scored 2 in the top of the 6th to retake the lead. Pitt rallied again, plating 6 runs in the bottom of the 6th to earn the victory. Stephanie Villalovos earned the win on the mound, and Morgan Shirley led the charge offensively going 4-5 with a triple. Taylor Carroll and Breanna Hardee also recorded 3 hits each.
COWLEY COUNTY (KS) 11 PITT 1
Pitt wasn't able to overcome a 7 run 1st inning from Cowley in their elimination round game. Starter Allie Phillips was chased from the game in the 2nd inning, and Cowley tacked on 4 additional runs to walk away with an 11-1 victory. Bethany Locklear and Taylor Carroll both recorded hits for the Bulldogs.
"I was sad to see the season end but it was also very awesome to see how much the team has grown since the fall. 12 Freshman and 2 Sophomores set the standards extremely high for next season and we are very excited for the bright future. Taylor Carroll, Stephanie Villalovos and Allie Phillips have left a great mark on our program." - HC Jennie Harp