Beaverton High Softball

Schedule Changes due to Rain

2009-05-07T08:08:00.000-07:00

This week's schedule now looks like this, pending additional weather:

Friday, May 8, 2009, 5:00 pm Westview @ Beaverton

Saturday, May 9, 2009, 10:00 am @ Southridge

It is not clear when the Aloha rain-out will be made up. Due to the Varsity District Track meet being held at Aloha on the 15th, the plan was to shift that game to Beaverton. Aloha is not willing to give up its remaining home game against the Beavs, so we will have to wait for an off day when the weather is cooperative. Next available date appears to be Tuesday.

Beavers Beat Westview, Run Metro Win Streak to 3

2009-04-27T21:24:00.000-07:00

Beaverton held off a furious 7th-inning rally and beat the Wildcats at Westview 7 - 6 on Monday. Coming on the heels of the team's emotional win at Southridge on Friday, the Beavers ran their Metro win streak to 3 games and moved into sole possession of the League's final playoff spot.

The Beavers started slowly at Westview. With two outs in the top of the first, Willow Martinson lined the 9th pitch of her at-bat into left field, but Kayla Lauro hit a 3-0 pitch back to the pitcher for a groundout to end the inning.

The Wildcats had much better success in their half of the first. Starter Megen Ickler gave up a single to right, a stolen base, a bunt single and then got a called third strike and Westview had runners on first and third with one out. Sticking with the short game, the Wildcats clean-up hitter bunted down the third base line and an effort to catch the runner from third coming home was late while the runner on first went all the way to third. The next batter grounded out to Hannah Johnson at second, scoring the runner from third. The next Wildcat struck out to end the inning with Westview up 2 - 0.

The Beavers wasted no time getting rolling in the top of the 2nd. Ruby LaFollette led off with a single up the middle and after an attempt to sacrifice her to second by Hannah Johnson was misplayed, the Beavers had runners on first and second with no outs. Gracie Coburn hit back to the pitcher who forced LaFollette at third. Ickler followed with a solid single, scoring Johnson and moving Coburn to third. Natsuki Horakawa grounded out to first base, scoring Coburn and leaving Ickler on second with two outs. Up next, Maddie Evans laced the first pitch back up the middle, scoring Ickler. The next batter grounded out to first ending the Beavers half of the second.

Ickler needed only 7 pitches to retire the Wildcats in the bottom of the second, getting first-pitch comebackers from the first two batters and a harmless roller to Johnson at second base for the third out. After two, the Beavers led 3 - 2.

The Beaver bats continued to roll along in the third. Martinson opened the inning with another single to left and Lauro followed with a double to right center. LaFollette reached on an error, scoring pinch-runner Moriah Kimmer. Johnson was then hit by a pitch, loading the bases with no outs and setting up what looked like a big inning for the Beavers. Coburn was up next, flying out to center field, but scoring Lauro from third. The opportunity to blow the game open ended with a grounder to the pitcher and a strikeout.

Westview, now down 5 - 2, tried to scrap back in their half of the third. After a lead-off groundout to Johnson, the next batter got aboard with a bunt, but was promptly forced at second when the following batter hit the ball to Evans at short for the relay to Johnson on the bag. Now with two outs and a runner on first, Westview's next batter walked, but a groundout to short ended the Westview threat.

Westview made a pitching change to show the Beaver batters a different look in the top of the fourth. Nevertheless, Evans led off the inning with her second hit, a single that dropped in shallow center field. Megan John sacrificed Evans to second, but a pop foul to third and a grounder back to the pitcher left her stranded there.

Westview went down one-two-three again in the fourth - this time on only six pitches - with grounders to Johnson and Evans and a fly to Johnson.

The Beavers retained their 5 - 2 lead as they came to the plate in the top of the 5th, but another promising start ended with no scoring. LaFollette led off the inning and reached on an error on the Westview first baseman. She was forced at second when Johnson also hit to the first baseman. Coburn, batting third, sacrificed Johnson to second, but the next batter grounded out to second, ending the inning.

Westview struck in their half of the fifth. A lead-off single to center on an 0 - 2 count was quickly followed by two groundouts to Johnson and Ickler, moving the runner to third. The next batter hit a bloop single to right field that unexpectedly dropped between Johnson and right fielder Caitlin Ellerbe, scoring the runner from third. Ickler struck out the next batter, ending the inning with Beaverton still leading 5 - 3.

One major difference in this edition of the Beavers from previous years is its ability to keep scoring until the game is over. Coming up in the sixth, the Beavers knew five runs probably wouldn't get it done, based on their experience against Westview earlier in the season. Leading off the inning, Horakawa drew a walk and was moved to second on Evans' third hit of the game, a single to left. A wild pitch gave the Beavers runners on second and third with no outs. The Beavers then produced back-to-back fly outs to center, but the second one - by Martinson - was deep enough to score Horakawa from third with Evans moving over to occupy that base. Up next, Lauro delivered a single to right on a full count, scoring Evans. LaFollette hit safely up the middle, and a double steal gave the Beavers runners on second and third with two outs. The next batter flied out to center though, ending the Beavers half of the sixth having extended their lead to 7 - 3.

Westview tried to get the runs back in the bottom of the sixth. The first two Wildcat batters singled and were sacrificed to second and third. But with one out, Ickler got consecutive strikeouts, stopping the Wildcats in their tracks.

Coming to the seventh, the Beavers enjoyed a 7 - 3 lead and no doubt hoped to extend it yet again, but consecutive flyouts to right field and a hard liner that was snared at third base ended the Beavers final at-bat in regulation.

Westview did not become the quality softball program it has been for years by rolling over when the going gets tough. The Wildcats roared back into the game with a ferocity that would have unhinged previous Beaver teams. Two singles and an error gave Westview loaded bases and their cleanup hitter at the plate - one swing from tying the game. In a bit of strategery, the Beavers issued her an intentional walk, giving up a run to get to the bottom half of the Wildcat order. Now down 7 - 4, the next Wildcat batter hit the ball back to Ickler, who threw to Martinson for the force at home. A single to left by the next Westview hitter scored another run, and kept the bases loaded as Westview closed to 7 - 5. The 7th batter of the inning hit the ball to short, where Evans fielded it and stepped on third for the force, but allowing yet another run to score. Now the game was really on the line with runners on first and second, two outs and Westview trailing by only one run. The team's 8th batter obliged the Beavers by hitting a grounder to Lauro, who almost casually gunned her out at first, ending the game.

Ickler picked up the win and the Beavers moved into sole possession of 4th place in the Metro League, only one game out of third. The team faces undefeated Jesuit Wednesday, a school it has not beaten in years. But after breaking through against Southridge Friday - a team Beaverton had not beaten since 2004 - a better showing then the 10 - 0 pasting the Crusaders delivered earlier in the season certainly seems possible.

Beavers Give One Away In 10-Inning Thriller At Canby

2009-04-10T15:21:00.000-07:00

For anyone who thinks that the outcome of a softball game couldn't possibly turn on only one or two plays, the Beaverton -Canby matchup on Thursday is recommended. After battling for 10 innings, Canby came away with the 4 - 2 victory in 10 innings.

Things started slowly on offense for the Beavers against Canby ace Jen O'Donnell. Through 5 innings, Beaverton managed only 3 hits and one walk and never seriously threatened to score, advancing only one runner as far as second base. Canby had little more success against Beaverton ace Megen Ickler (3-2), who scattered 5 hits through five innings. Ickler and the defense hurt themselves, however - giving up two unearned runs - in ways Canby never did.

In the Canby 2nd inning, Ickler hit the first batter in the ankle on an 0 - 2 count. The next batter attempted to sacrifice, but reached base on an unforced throwing error, allowing the Cougars to gain a first and third situation with no outs. After a pop-up to first, a bloop infield single loaded the bases and the next batter hit a long fly ball to center field, scoring the runner from third. A routine ground out to third ended the inning with Canby up 1 - 0.

The Cougars scored again in the 4th. With one out, a towering shot was hit to left center field. Beaver outfielders almost collided and then threw away the relay, allowing the batter to score. Fly outs to short and left field sandwiched a single up the middle and ended the inning.

Down 2 - 0 and down to their last six outs, the Beavers finally got to O'Donnell in the 6th. Ruby LaFollette led off the inning with a sharp line drive to left center and Willow Martinson drew a walk. Ickler was next, grounding out to second, but advancing both runners. Megan John then roped a 2 - 0 pitch down the right field line for a double, scoring LaFollette and pinch runner Valerie Sanchez and tying the game. John moved to third on a passed ball and the Beavers seemed primed to take the lead, but two strikeouts stopped the rally.

In the Canby 6th, another Beaver throwing error and a walk gave the Cougars runners on first and second with one out. The next batter tried to sacrifice, but Ickler threw her out at first, and Hannah Johnson, covering from second, gunned out the runner at third as Gracie Coburn raced in from left to take the throw.

In the 7th, the Beavers went three and out, and were looking to hold Canby to send the game to extra frames. The first Cougar batter flied out to Short, but the next singled to right field, then took second on another Beaver throwing error. With a runner in scoring position, the third Canby batter of the inning hit a fly ball which Shortstop Maddie Evans snared for the second out. The Cougar runner on second was caught off the base, leaning towards third, however, and Evans flipped the ball to Hannah Johnson for the force out at second and the Beavers' second double play in as many innings.

The only real threat to end the game in the 8th or 9th innings came in the Canby half of the 9th. After a lead-off double to the left-field line, Ickler got a pop-up to Martinson at catcher, a routine grounder to Johnson at second and then made a spectacular diving catch of a pop-up in no-man's land between first base and the pitching plate.

Under OSAA rules, once the 10th inning comes around, the game goes to the tie-breaker rules so familiar to those who play summer ball. The final out of the previous inning is positioned on second base, giving teams a better chance to score and end the game. In the Beaverton 10th, this put Evans on second. She was promptly sacrificed to third by Caitlin Ellerbe. With two chances to take their first lead, the Beavers again produced two strikeouts.

In their turn, Canby took advantage of the last Beaver mistake. Starting with a runner on second, Ickler got a called third strike for the first out, but also issued a wild pitch moving the runner to third. With the Canby clean-up hitter at the plate and a 2 - 0 count, the next pitch was thrown right over the middle of the plate and deposited over the fence in left center field, giving Canby a hard-won 4 - 2 victory.

Canby is clearly a quality opponent, having beaten Westview and lost a close game to Jesuit this season. The 10th-inning home run was one of the few earned runs Beaverton has given up in the pre-season schedule. Despite the errors, the Beavers showed dramatic improvement in remaining focused throughout the game. Continued improvement in this area is likely to yield positive results going forward.

The Beavers now move into the Metro League season with a 5 - 4 record and having scored 2/3 as many runs as they did all last season. The Metro season promises tough tests three times per week through May 15 and perhaps the most competitive top-to-bottom group in the state. The team's goal is a return to the playoffs. In 2008, that took 6 league wins.

Beaver Bats Deliver 21 Hits, Rout Newberg in 5

2009-04-08T10:09:00.000-07:00

The Beavers played their first game at Montag Stadium since March 20th, and responded to the home cookin' by pounding out 21 hits in only 5 innings Tuesday, beating overmatched Newberg
17 - 7. With the exception of a shaky 4th inning, the Beaver defense and pitching performed well, limiting Newberg to just 5 hits.

Megen Ickler (3-1) got the start in the circle for the Beavers and allowed 2 hits in the top of the first, including a bunt single to the second batter she faced. After a called third strike for the second out, the Tigers' clean-up hitter stroked a single to left field, giving Newberg runners on first and third. Ickler struck out the next batter to end the threat.

The Beavers started rolling on offense from their opening at bat. Hannah Johnson led off with a walk and was followed by Ruby LaFollette's single to right. That brought Willow Martinson to the plate and she crushed an 0 - 2 pitch to deep left field for a 3-run homer. Leading 3 - 0 with no outs, the next batter grounded out to third, but the Newberg pitcher hit Ickler in the foot and gave up a single to Gracie Coburn. Megan John laid down a sacrifice bunt, moving Victoria Sanchez (pinch running for Ickler) to third and Coburn to second. Maddie Evans then delivered a first-pitch single to right center, scoring Sanchez. A single to shallow centerfield by Natsuki Horakawa led to Evans being forced at second, ending the inning with the Beavers up 4 - 0.

In the 2nd, Ickler allowed a lead-off single, but then got a strikeout and two harmless ground balls to short and second to shut Newberg down. Having batted through the order in the first, the Beavers were ready for more. Hannah Johnson - who came to the plate a remarkable 5 times in the game - led off again, this time reaching base on a throwing error by the Newberg third baseman. After a flyout to center, Martinson lazered a single, giving the Beavers two on with one out. Kayla Lauro was up next, and she delivered a ball to straightaway centerfield that probably needed binoculars to see the fence as it sailed over. The 3-run shot pushed Beaverton's lead to 7 - 0, and prompted a pitching change for Newberg. Right back at it, Ickler singled and after a pop-out to second base, John doubled, scoring Tyler (running for Ickler). Evans was next, singling again and notching another RBI as John scooted for home. Horakowa continued the hit parade to left center for a double, plating Evans. With official scorer Chris Johnson's hand beginning to cramp up, Hannah Johnson reached for the second time in the inning with a single. LaFollette walked to load the bases, but a pop-up to shortstop ended the incredible Beaver inning with the team enjoying an 11 - 0 lead.

Newberg got on the board in the top of the third. A leadoff single was followed by a fly out to second, and the third Tiger batter then knocked a double off a diving John's glove in right center for the RBI. Ickler again got routine grounders to short and third to end the inning. The Beavers could manage only one run in their half of the inning. Two quick outs were followed by Coburn reaching on an error and singles by John and Evans. The bases were loaded for Horakawa who walked on four straight pitches from Newberg's third pitcher of the game, scoring Coburn. A foul pop-up to first stranded three more Beaver runners.

In the fourth, with Tyler on in relief of Ickler and the Beavers leading 11 - 1, spectators might have been forgiven had they felt transported back in time to the Tigard game. Things appeared fine for a moment as Tyler gave up a walk, then got an easy fly ball to John in centerfield. This was followed, however, by another walk, a single which scored a run, and then 3 straight errors on routine ground balls and in ill-advised efforts to fool runners on third with fake throw-downs to second base. The Tigers ended up scoring 6 unearned runs in the frame on just one hit before Tyler restored order and got groundouts to second and first.

Luckily the Beavers had an advantage they lacked at Tigard - a big lead. Up 11 - 7, the Beavers tacked on another run in the bottom of the 4th. LaFollette led off the inning with a triple down the right field line, and came home when the relay was thrown over the pitcher's head and up against the Beaver's dugout. Martinson was up next and blasted a double to left, but the next two Beaver batters grounded out to third and short, only moving her to third. Sanchez, on for Coburn, drew a walk, but with runners at first and third, the next hitter popped up to first ending the Beaver inning with the score 12 - 7.

Up against it, Newberg started the 5th with two quick groundouts to second and third on 4 pitches. After a walk and a single, the Tiger's lead-off hitter grounded into a force play at third for Horakawa.

High school "mercy" rules allow for a stoppage of the game if a team is leading by 10 or more runs after 5 innings and the Beavers came to bat needing five more runs to call it an early evening. After a strikeout, Horakawa singled and Johnson walked. After another strikeout, Martinson came to the plate and stroked her second double and third extra-base hit, scoring Horakawa. Lauro singled scoring Johnson, Tyler drew a walk and Sanchez singled to score Martinson and Lauro. Now with two outs, the Beavers needed just one more run, and John delivered again, singling to score Tyler from second. Tyler collided with the Newberg catcher - who was blocking home plate without the ball - and had to crawl the last couple of feet to touch the base. She appeared to have a slight knee sprain, but medical reports were pending at press time.

The Beavers turned in some incredible hitting performances against Newberg. Martinson went 3 - 4 with 4 runs batted in, Lauro also had 4 RBI, John was 3 - 4 with 2 RBI, Evans was 3 - 4 with 2 RBI and Horakawa was 3 - 3 with 2 RBI and a walk. Up next on Thursday are the Canby Cougars, a team that will provide a much stiffer challenge.

A Good Game Spoiled

2009-03-31T10:46:00.000-07:00

Any golfer will tell you that Mark Twain's opinion of the game - "A good walk spoiled" - is true on some days. Beaverton's game against Tigard on Monday falls into the same category. After an interesting and generally well-played game through 5 and one-half innings, Beaverton's defense and pitching collapsed in the Tigard sixth and the Tigers went on to score 9 runs to blow the game open and win 10 - 1.

Beaverton starter Megen Ickler (2-2) pitched a strong game through the fifth, scattering five hits and giving up only one unearned run. Tigard's run came in the third after a leadoff double was followed by a sharp single which was misplayed by centerfielder Megan John, allowing the runner on second to score. The attempt to cut off the run at the plate was too late, but catcher Willow Martinson fired the ball the third to catch the runner trying to stretch the error-assisted double into a triple. With one out and the bases clear, the next batter singled to right center past a diving Hannah Johnson at second. After the Tigard clean-up hitter sacrified, the Tigers had a runner in scoring position at second with two outs. After walking the next batter, Ickler got a strikeout to end the Tigard threat.

The Beaver bats had been quiet through three innings, with Johnson's lead-off double in the third the only hit. In the fourth, the Beavers had a chance to tie the game after Martinson and Kayla Lauro led off the inning with back-to-back singles, and pinch runner Valerie Sanchez advanced to third on a wild pitch. Both runners were ultimately stranded as a fly out to center and two strikeouts ended the inning.

The Beavers fared better in the sixth, however. Still trailing 1 - 0, Martinson and Lauro again went back-to-back, this time with doubles, plating pinch runner Sam White. Lauro advanced to third on Caitlin Ellerbe's groundout to short, but a strikeout again stopped the rally.

The Tigard half of the sixth almost defies description. It was far too reminiscent of many of the Beaver's Metro games in 2007 and 2008 when they allowed walks, passed balls, wild pitches and errors to dictate the outcome of what had been close games. A play-by-play serves no one and it is to be hoped that the Coaching Staff and players can learn from the experience and come back mentally stronger. Tigard brought 14 runners to the plate and scored 9 runs in the inning on only two hits. Beaverton pitchers walked three batters (Molly Tyler came on after Ickler pitched to 6 batters), hit a batter and made two throwing errors. Beaverton fielders made 4 errors. The first 8 Tigard batters reached base safely without benefit of a hit.

The Beavers were unable to answer. Tigard pitcher Ashley Suter purposefully tried to bean Johnson as she led off the inning (Johnson had gone 2 - 2 in the game to that point), hitting her in the back and sending her to first. But two strikeouts and a weak grounder back to the pitcher ended the game with Tigard ahead 10 - 1.

If the rain holds off, the Beavers travel to Tualatin this afternoon to face the Timbervolves.

Valley Times Metro Softball Preview

2009-03-27T20:56:00.000-07:00

Is here.

Beavers Tame Mustangs; Go 3-1 On Vegas Trip

2009-03-27T19:20:00.000-07:00

On a day better suited for Xtreme Kite Flying then softball, the Beaverton Beavers wrapped up their Spring Break trip to Las Vegas with an exciting 4 - 2 victory over the Shadow Ridge Mustangs.

With the wind howling down from the surrounding mountains, the game was mostly a defensive and pitching battle through the first three innings. Beaverton starter Megen Ickler shut down threats by the Mustangs in all three, however, with Shadow Ridge baserunners reaching third base in both the second and third innings. With one out in the second and a runner on third, Ickler got a groundout on a comebacker and then a called third strike to retire the side. In the third, a triple with one out brought up the same situation. Ickler again got the second out on a ground ball to the pitcher, then a deep fly ball to foul ground in right field that was caught by Caitlin Ellerbe.

Meanwhile, the Beavers were making threats of their own. In the first and second, the Beavers produced three hits, but the best chance - with runners on first and third with two outs in the first was foiled by a groundout. The Beavers went three and out in the third, keeping the game scoreless going into the fourth.

Catcher Kayla Lauro led off the fourth with a single up the middle on a 1 - 0 pitch. Ickler followed with a fielder's choice to the second baseman who threw the ball past the shortstop covering second. Pinch runner Victoria Sanchez tried to take third on the overthrow, but was thrown out by the center fielder as Ickler took second on the play. After Ellerbe hit back to the pitcher for the second out, freshman Megan John hammered an 0 - 1 pitch to right center field for a double, scoring pinchrunner Molly Tyler. Sam White was up next, driving a ball to right field for a single and plating John. A groundout to first ended the Beaver effort in the fourth and when Shadow Ridge could manage only one baserunner in the bottom of the frame, the Beavers had a 2 - 0 lead.

The Beavers came right back in the fifth and thanks to errors and a walk by the Mustangs had the bases loaded with one out. A 1-2-3 double play stopped the rally in its tracks. Shadow Ridge finally got untracked in the bottom of the inning. A high bouncing infield single and two errors gave the Mustangs their first run of the game and left runners on second and third with one out. A single up the middle scored the runner from third, but a "caught fly and force" double play by Willow Martinson - on for the inning at first in place of starter Ruby LaFollette - ended the threat.

Having tied the game, Shadow Ridge made a pitching change for the sixth. The Beavers continued to reach base, earning a single and two walks, but were unable to score. Sophomore Molly Tyler came on in relief of Ickler in the bottom of the sixth for the Beavers. After giving up a leadoff single, the Beavers allowed the runner to reach third with a wild pitch and a throwing error on a pickoff attempt at second. Tyler, however got a groundout to third, a strikeout and then a spectacular play at third by Natsuki Horikawa to get out of the jam with no damage on the scoreboard. Horikawa speared a high bouncer well over her head and gunned the runner out at first all in one motion, drawing "ooohs" and quite a number of "ahhhs" from fans of both teams.

Coming to the 7th, the score was tied 2 - 2 and the Beavers again had a chance to show their quality. LaFollette led off the inning with a single up the middle. Up next, Lauro hit back to the pitcher who forced LaFollette at second. Sanchez came on to pinch run for Lauro for the fourth time in the game. After Ickler drew a walk, a wild pitch moved the runners to second and third with only one out. Ellerbe grounded out to the pitcher, bringing John to the plate with two outs. The freshman delivered again, ripping a double down the left field line and scoring both Sanchez and Ickler and giving the Beavers a 4 - 2 lead.

The Mustang's last chance against Tyler was short-lived. After a lead-off walk, Tyler got the first out on a fly ball to Ellerbe in right. A stolen base and a passed ball moved the runner to third, but Tyler struck out the third batter, then got the final out on a grounder to short.

Tyler (2-0) got the win for the Beavers. In a rarity at any level, not a single Beaver player stuck out in the game against Shadow Ridge. The team brought 35 batters to the plate and more than half reached base as the team produced 10 hits, 4 walks, and reached base 3 times via fielder's choice and once on an error.

The Beavers finished their Las Vegas trip 3 - 1 and now return to Oregon to face their final week of pre-season action before the beginning of Metro League play.

Final Inning Rally Lifts Beavs

2009-03-25T18:44:00.000-07:00

Beaverton's softball team faced a tough loss going into the top of the 7th inning against the Spring Valley High School Grizzlies this afternoon in Las Vegas. Having squandered an early 3 - 1 lead, the Beavers trailed 6 - 4 facing their final at bat. As they did yesterday, however, the Beavers' bats came alive at the right time for a huge rally that plated 5 runs and gave the team a 9 - 6 win at Spring Valley.

The Beavers started quickly on offense again, scoring in the top of the first. With two outs, Willow Martinson earned a walk. Kayla Lauro followed by crushing a ball to the left field fence for a double and scoring Martinson all the way from first.

The Grizzlies answered immediately. The lead-off hitter knocked a ball over left fielder Natsuki Horikawa's head, and after the next batter flied out to Hannah Johnson at second, came home on a 4 - 3 groundout. That was it in the first, as Megen Ickler (2-1) struck out the next batter.

Neither team generated much offense in the second, and the Beavers came to bat in the third with the game tied 1 - 1. With two outs, Ruby LaFollette singled to the right side and Martinson and Lauro followed with back-to-back doubles, each earning an RBI.

In the fourth, the Beavers missed a golden scoring opportunity. Horikawa led off the inning with a walk and was moved to second when Sam White hit safely up the middle. Ickler came to the plate with runners on first and second and no outs, but hit a grounder to the shortstop, who forced Horikawa at third. Maddie Evans was next with an infield single to load the bases for the top of the Beaverton order. Johnson hit into a 4 - 6 - 3 double play to end the Beaver threat.

Spring Valley got on the board in a big way in the fourth. After walking the first batter, Ickler gave up three consecutive singles and a series of past balls and wild pitches allowed all four runners to score. Ickler restored order with two strikeouts and a fly out to White, in for Johnson at second. Beaverton found itself on the trailing end of the 5 - 3 score at the end of 4 innings.

Beaverton closed the gap to 5 - 4 in their half of the fifth. LaFollette led off with a single and Martinson followed with her second hit, a single to left field. After Lauro grounded out to third and Senior Victoria Sanchez flied out to first, Horikawa singled to left, scoring LaFollette.

With the game still 5 - 4 going into the sixth inning, the Beavers failed to score and brought in Molly Tyler to finish on the mound. Trying to be at her most intimidating, Tyler beaned the first batter. The next batter laid down a sacrifice bunt, and the Beavers failed to cover third, allowing the runner on first to go all the way to third on the bunt. A pickoff attempt resulted in a Beaverton error, allowing Spring Valley to score its sixth run. After walking a batter, Tyler got a groundout to short and a strikeout to end the inning.

Entering the 7th inning, Beaverton trailed 6 - 4 and was looking at a loss brought on mostly by miscues and unearned runs. However, Spring Valley made a pitching change that - just as with the Desert Oasis game yesterday - seemed to eventually work in the Beavers' favor. Martinson led off the inning and was grazed by a 2 - 2 pitch and sent to first. Lauro walked and Sanchez reached on a fielder's choice as Martinson was forced out at third. The Beavers needed runs, not outs, and they were about to get them. With one out and runners on first and second, Horikawa laid down a perfect bunt to load the bases. Sam White stepped to the plate and delivered an 0 - 1 pitch down the line in right field for a double, scoring pinch runner Megan John from third and Sanchez from second. The score now tied, the Beavers had one out and runners on second and third. After a strikeout, Maddie Evans came to the plate and laced the first pitch to deep right field for a triple, scoring Horikawa and White. An ill-considered attempt to throw Evans out at third led to an overthrow, allowing Evans to come home with the Beavers' ninth and final run.

All that was now necessary was for Tyler to shut down the Grizzlies, and she did her job, giving up a single base on balls and striking out two in the 7th to end the game. Tyler (1-0) and Ickler combined for a six hitter, and struck out 10.

The Beavers end their Las Vegas Spring Break schedule tomorrow with a game at Shadow Ridge High School.

Beavers Pitching, Bats Knock Off D'Backs

2009-03-24T19:10:00.000-07:00

Megen Ickler (2-1) gave up only two hits and struck out seven while pitching four innings of shut-out ball, and the Beaver bats came alive for 12 hits as the team evened its Vegas record at 1 - 1 with a 7-2 victory over Desert Oasis High School. The Beavers jumped on the D'Backs starter for 4 runs in the first two innings. In the top of the first, the Beavers scored when Natsuki Horikawa reached on an error by the Desert Oasis second baseman, and promptly stole second. Willow Martinson continued her hot hitting, following Horikawa with a single. After Kayla Lauro struck out, Freshman Megan John singled to center field, scoring Horikawa.

In the second inning, Caitlin Ellerbe bunted aboard with help from a throwing error. After Sam White popped out, Maddie Evans walked to give the Beavers runners on first and second with only one out. Hannah Johnson followed Evans, flying out to left field, and bringing Horikawa to the plate for the second time. Natsuki delivered a bloop single over the third baseman's head, scoring Ellerbe. With runners at first and second, Martinson crushed a pitch to deep left field, the ball landing in fair territory and running into deep foul ground. Evans and Horikawa scored, giving the Beavers a 4-0 lead.

Meanwhile, Ickler was making short work of the D'Backs, throwing only 9 pitches in the second inning, 15 in the third and 12 in the fourth. Molly Tyler came on in relief of Ickler for the fifth.
After retiring the first two batters, a walk and a double allowed the D'Backs to score their first run. Tyler then got the lead-off hitter to fly out to Hannah Johnson at second base.

A pitching change by Desert Oasis in the 4th paid dividends as the Beavers bats went silent in the fourth, fifth and sixth innings. The team had only two hits and six strikeouts in those three innings after the pitching change.

The D'Backs continued to press their case in the home half of the sixth. After the first batter hit a come-backer to Tyler for a groundout, the next two batters walked and a wild pitch moved them to second and third. The next Desert Oasis batter singled, scoring the runner from third. Facing a first and third with one out situation, Tyler bore down getting a called third strike and a groundout to second.

With the score 4 -2, the pressure mounting and the home crowd fired up, the Beavers came to bat in the top of the 7th, looking for insurance runs. The inning got off to a slow start, with Martinson popping out and Lauro grounding out, both to first base. Ickler, apparently not satisfied with a dominating pitching performance, drilled a two-out triple to deep right field and the Beaver hit parade began in earnest. Ickler's hit was followed by singles from Gracie Coburn (plating Ickler), and Ellerbe. After Sam White drew a walk to load the bases, Maddie Evans laced a 2-1 pitch up the middle to score Coburn. Back to the top of the order, Hannah Johnson singled to score Ellerbe. A strikeout ended the inning with the Beavers extending their lead to 7 - 2

The D'Backs couldn't get anything going in the bottom of the 7th, going 3 and out to end the game. Ickler got the win and Tyler a save in the game. Beaverton's girls are back in action tomorrow in Las Vegas versus Spring Valley High School.

Beavers Fall In First Vegas Tilt, 8-2 To Foothill

2009-03-23T20:40:00.000-07:00

The Beavers hit the ball early and late, but the Foothill High School Falcons hit early and often, beating Beaverton 8 - 2 this afternoon.

Beaverton started off well, threatening in the top of the 1st. With one out, freshman Megan John singled to left field. Sophomore Willow Martinson then doubled to left center, moving John to third. Kayla Lauro then chopped a 1-1 pitch towards third. The Falcon third baseman looked John back, then threw to first to get Lauro. On the throw, John took off for home, but was thrown out at the plate ending the Beaver threat.

Foothill answered in the bottom of the first, scoring two runs as the first four batters hit safely. Megen Ickler (1-1), then struck out 3 of the next 4, ending the inning with minimum damage.
Foothill, however, would score 2 in the 2nd and 3 in the third, opening up a 7-0 lead after four innings. Beaverton couldn't muster much offense, going three-and-out twice and getting a single hit in these three innings - a single from Martinson - in the fourth.

The Beavers threatened to get into the game in the fifth, as Senior Caitlin Ellerbe led off with a solid single to right center field. Sam White followed with a popup to the infield that was misplayed, giving the Beavers runners on first and second with no outs. Ruby LaFollette sacrified Ellerbe and White to third and second. Senior Maddie Evans followed with a roller to third. Although there was no force play, Ellerbe charged home and was tagged out. The Beaver threat ended with Junior Hannah Johnson ripping a shot the first baseman snared with a diving stab.

The Beavers were back again in the sixth. With one out, Martinson (who went 3-3 with two doubles) crushed a towering drive to the left center field fence. Lauro then plated pinch runner Gracie Coburn with another double, this time to right center. Lauro scored when Ickler smacked the Beavers' third double in a row. A strikeout and groundout to first ended the inning with the Beavers now down 7 - 2.

Foothill added one more run in the bottom of the sixth, and the Beavers went three-and-out in the top of the 7th to end the game behind 8 - 2.

Sophomore Molly Tyler came on in relief of Ickler in the 4th, and threw three innings of one-hit ball, giving up one run.

Foothill is six-year-0ld high school that boasts a student body of 4,500 - almost twice as many as the largest Oregon high schools. The Beavers continue games in Las Vegas tomorrow afternoon against Desert Oasis HS.

Beavers Beat Warriors on Lauro Blast

2009-03-20T20:52:00.000-07:00

The showers held off long enough at Beaverton High this afternoon so the Varsity team could get the 2009 season underway. The season's first action saw the Beavers defeat Cleveland 2-1.

The Beavers survived nine Cleveland baserunners through the top of the sixth without yielding a run. A defensive struggle lacking only a key hit to break the game wide open finally got underway offensively in the bottom of the sixth. Sophomore catcher Willow Martinson gave the Beavers life by stroking her second hit - a two-out single to centerfield. Junior Kayla Lauro followed Martinson and crushed a 3-1 pitch to deep center field to spot the Beavers a 2-0 lead.

The top of the 7th - Cleveland's last chance - was a little too exciting. After retiring the first batter, Senior Megen Ickler (1-0), allowed a walk and then a ball deep to left field. At first the ball appeared to have cleared the fence to tie the game. Lauro, playing left, appealed the ruling on the field, noting that the ball had actually hit at the base of the fence and scooted under, rather then going over. After a brief review, the home run was changed to a ground rule double, giving Cleveland runners on 2nd and 3rd with only one out. The next batter singled, scoring the runner from 3rd and bringing the score to 2-1. Cleveland couldn't capitalize as the next two batters popped up to first and flied to right field to end the game.

The Beavers start two new infielders and a new outfielder this season. The team now heads to Las Vegas for games over Spring Break. Follow the action right here on the Beaverton High Softball blog.

2009 Varsity Schedule

2009-03-19T11:05:00.000-07:00

Friday, March 20, 4:30 pm vs. Cleveland 1 @ Beaverton 2
Monday, March 23, 3:30 pm @ Foothill HS (NV) 8, Beaverton 2
Tuesday, March 24, 3:30 pm @ Desert Oasis HS (NV) 2, Beaverton 7
Wednesday, March 25, 3:30 pm @ Spring Valley HS (NV) 6, Beaverton 9
Thursday, March 26, 3:30 pm @ Shadow Ridge HS (NV) 2, Beaverton 4
Monday, March 30, 5:00 pm @ Tigard 10, Beaverton 1
Tuesday, March 31, 4:30 pm @ Tualatin 7, Beaverton 6 (8 innings)
Tuesday, April 7, 5:00 pm vs. Newberg 7 @ Beaverton 17 (5 innings)
Thursday, April 9, 5:00 pm @ Canby 4, Beaverton 2 (10 innings)
Monday, April 13, 5:00 pm vs. Southridge 5, Beaverton 4 (10 innings)
Wednesday, April 15, 5:00 pm vs. Westview 7 @ Beaverton 6 (8 innings)
Friday, April 17, 5:00 pm @ Jesuit 10, Beaverton 0 (5 innings)
Monday, April 20, 5:00 pm vs. Sunset 3 @ Beaverton 1
Wednesday, April 22, 5:00 pm @ Aloha 2, Beaverton 8
Friday, April 24, 5:00 pm @ Southridge 1, Beaverton 4
Monday, April 27, 5:00 pm @ Westview 6, Beaverton 7
Wednesday, April 29, 5:00 pm vs. Jesuit 8 @ Beaverton 1
Friday, May 1, 5:00 pm @ Sunset 5, Beaverton 1
Thursday, May 7, 5:00 pm @ Aloha
Friday, May 8, 5:00 pm vs. Westview @ Beaverton
Saturday, May 9, 10:00 am @ Southridge
Monday, May 11, 5:00 pm @ Jesuit
Wednesday, May 13, 5:00 pm vs. Sunset @ Beaverton
Friday, May 15, 5:00 pm vs. Aloha @ Beaverton SENIOR DAY

Note: Game date, time or location may be changed due to inclement weather

First Auction Meeting Set

2008-12-02T10:36:00.000-08:00

The first meeting to plan the 2009 Spaghetti Dinner & Silent Auction will take place on Monday, December 8th beginning at 7:00 pm. The meeting will be held at Ernesto's Italian Restaurant, which is located just East of Jesuit High School off Beaverton-Hillsdale Highway. Ernesto's has been a strong supporter of the Beaverton Softball program.

At this meeting, volunteer roles will be discussed. All program parents are encouraged to attend and learn how they can help. The Spaghetti Dinner & Silent Auction will be held this year on Friday, January 30 in the BHS Cafeteria. This event is typically the program's largest fundraiser, and draws hundreds of participants.

Fourth Annual Spaghetti Dinner

2008-11-20T11:27:00.000-08:00

Beaverton High School softball will present its 4th annual Spaghetti Dinner and Silent Auction on Friday evening, January 30, 2009. The event will be held in the BHS Cafeteria and will be open from 5:00 - 9:00 pm in conjunction with the boys basketball games against cross-town rival Jesuit in the adjacent main gym.

This year's silent auction will feature outstanding sports memorabilia, vacation trips, golf, restaurant gift certificates and many other valuable items. Silent auction items typically sell for a fraction of their retail value.

For more information, or to order tickets, please email bhsdinner09@yahoo.com

Meeting Details Provide 2008-09 Task List

2008-09-18T14:55:00.000-07:00

Last night, Varsity Head Coach Jim Marron laid out the tasks the softball programs players and parents need to accomplish in coming months. Marron also introduced Dave Kimmer as the new Varsity Assistant Coach (Kimmer coached JV last season) and Stephanie Hemmingson as the JV-2 Coach. Hemmingson is a recent graduate of Kenyon College where she pitched for the Ladies softball squad. The new JV coach - who is also a PE teacher at Beaverton - did not attend.

Marron handed out two important packets of information. The first was a fundraising package which included sample letters for players to send to friends and acquaintences who might want to support their softball careers. Marron asked that all players send out these letters, which have proven to be successful ways of raising money for the program. He also noted that outfield banners are available at a cost of $500 for 2 seasons. These are typically purchased by businesses or parents.

Marron noted that the program's major fundraiser - the Spaghetti Dinner & Silent Auction - will take place during basketball season. All players should plan on created a "basket" for the Silent Auction. There are many possible baskets and good ideas are available on the internet. In addition, Silent Auction items are needed. Almost anything can be a good auction item. If you would like to help with procurement or other event needs, please email Diane Evans at wagontire@yahoo.com. There is much work to do, and if everyone participates it is much easier to get it all done.

The second packet contained all the permission forms necessary for the team's spring break trip. These forms do not need to be completed immediately, but families should plan on getting them finished early so that there is no rush to complete them in the spring.

Marron noted that the location of the spring trip is up in the air - the previously planned trip to South Carolina is not going to work out as the schools Spring Break are at a different time in that state. Current possibilities include Northern California, Medford or Las Vegas.

Marron also laid out a general schedule. In late October, there will be "open gym" times available for pitching and hitting practices. These will continue through November and December based on the OSAA schedule. Tryouts will be in late February. The first week will be dedicated to activities such as conditioning and throwing. The second week will be on-field softball skills. He also noted that there are no restrictions on players participation in ASA softball practices or tournaments as long as they don't directly interfere with official BHS practices or games.

If at all possible, players of all skill levels should be working on their softball skills outside of open gym times. If your player does not have a winter skills workout opportunity, please contact the coaching staff.

Please note that if you are not receiving emails from Coach Marron (or if you would like to add a second or third email address for your family to the distribution list) please contact Jim at BHS.Softball@verizon.net.

Weight Lifting to Begin

2008-06-11T15:01:00.000-07:00

For the first time in years, Beaverton High softball team members will be able to participate in organized, free weight training. Head Coach Jim Marron reports that by the end of June team members will be able to work on weight lifting, agility and flexibility in the new BHS weight room. The sessions are tentatively scheduled for Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10:00 am to Noon. The final schedule - including the start date - will be set once completion of the weight room remodeling is in sight.

While the sessions are not mandatory, added strength and agility can make an important contribution to a player's success on the field. All players - including incoming Freshmen - are encouraged to watch for additional information on this opportunity.

Beavers Snag Post-Season Honors

2008-05-21T05:59:00.000-07:00

Despite a difficult season in the win-loss columns, five members of the 2008 Beaverton softball squad earned All-Metro Honors.

Junior Megen Ickler was named to the All-Metro Second Team as a pitcher. She is joined by Sophomore Hannah Johnson, who returns to the Second Team again this year as an infielder.

Junior Maddie Evans and Freshman Willow Martinson were named All-Metro Honorable Mention infielders, while Senior Hannah McMahon was selected as a utility player.

Congratulations to all these young women for their outstanding efforts this season!

2008 Varsity Results

2008-05-20T22:14:00.001-07:00

Pre-Season

3/10/08 - @ Sprague 4 - Beaverton 4 (5 inn)
3/14/08 - vs. Centennial @ Beaverton - 4:30 pm (Postponed - Rain)
3/19/08 - @ Forest Grove 7, Beaverton 3
3/20/08 - @ Newberg 4, Beaverton 5 (6 inn) (see game post below)
3/24/08 - vs. Crescent Valley 6, Beaverton 8 (Bend Tournament) (see game post below)
3/24/08 - vs. Valley Catholic 4, Beaverton 0 (Bend Tournament) (see game post below)
3/25/08 - vs. Oregon City Pioneers 1, Beaverton 0 (Bend Tournament) (see game post below)
3/25/08 - vs. North Salem 3, Beaverton 1 (Bend Tournament) (see game post below)
3/26/08 - vs. Centennial (Bend Tournament) - CANCELLED - SNOW
3/26/08 - vs. Summit (Bend Tournament) - CANCELLED - SNOW
4/02/08 - @ Newberg 1, Beaverton 8
4/3/08 - vs. Tualatin 3, Beaverton 10

Metro League

4/07/08 - @ Jesuit 6, Beaverton 2 News article
4/10/08 - vs. Westview 7 Beaverton 1
4/11/08 - vs. Sunset 8 Beaverton 4
4/14/08 -@ Southridge 9, Beaverton 1 News article
4/16/08 - vs. Aloha 0, Beaverton 3
4/18/08 - vs. Jesuit 11 Beaverton 1 (5 inn)
4/21/08 - @ Westview 6, Beaverton 2
4/25/08 - vs. Southridge 11 @ Beaverton 1
4/26/08 - @ Sunset 10, Beaverton 0 (5 inn)
4/28/08 - vs. Aloha 1 @ Beaverton 7
4/30/08 - @ Jesuit 1, Beaverton 0
5/2/08 - vs. Westview 3 @ Beaverton 1
5/05/08 - vs. Sunset 11 Beaverton 1
5/7/08 - @ Southridge 9, Beaverton 1
5/9/08 - @ Aloha 1, Beaverton 10

Note: All results are 7 innings unless otherwise noted.

JV Racks Up Wins

2008-04-15T13:32:00.000-07:00

Led by solid pitching from freshmen Moriah Kimmer and Molly Tyler, the Beaverton Junior Varsity team pushed its record to 5 - 4 in the past three days. On Saturday, the JV hosted Westview for a double header at the Stadium. In the first game, Kimmer tossed the first shutout of the young season, blanking the Wildcats 5 - 0. Kimmer struck out 7 and walked 2 while scattering 4 hits.

In the second game, Tyler struck out 5 and walked 2 while also giving up 4 hits. Beaverton prevailed in this game 3 - 2.

On Monday, April 14, the JV traveled to Southridge and dominated the Skyhawks, winning 10 - 2. Kimmer returned to the mound and recorded 11 strikeouts while allowing no walks, 3 hits and no earned runs. Offensively, the Beavers racked up 11 hits, 13 walks and had two players reach base when they were hit by pitches.

Game Photos Available

2008-04-09T09:41:00.000-07:00

There are two websites where pictures of many Beaverton Varsity and JV games can be found. BHS softball dad Jim Kenck has some great shots of early season games, including the Bend trip, at this site. Jim has given permission for Beaverton softball parents to download pictures they would like from this site at no cost. Please do not use these pictures for any public purpose without crediting Jim's work.

Beaverton Valley Times Sports Editor Miles Vance also publishes shots of games he attends. He was at the Jesuit game Monday and will undoubtedly attend other games as the season progresses. These pictures are available for purchase.

Beavers Drop Two Close Ones

2008-03-26T09:35:00.000-07:00

The bats went silent Tuesday as the Beavers dropped two close contests. The first game was a pitching duel between Junior Megen Ickler and Oregon City. Neither team could score until OC pushed across what proved to be the winning run on a throwing error in the top of the 7th. Ickler and the Beaver defense were spectacular otherwise, working out of several innings where the Pioneers had one or two runners on base with one or no outs.

In the second game, the Beavers fell behind North Salem 3-1 and couldn't recover. The team rallied for a single run late. Senior Hannah McMahon was probably robbed of a 2-run homer late in the game on a shot that appeared it would have easily cleared a 200' fence (there are no outfield fences at Skyline Park). Freshman Molly Tyler pitched well for five innings and Moriah Kimmer came on for one inning of hitless relief.

Beavers Split Two In Central Oregon

2008-03-24T16:53:00.000-07:00

Beaverton rallied from a 5-run deficit in their morning game to beat Crescent Valley 8 - 6. Freshman pitchers Moriah Kimmer and Molly Tyler went the distance for the Beavers. Offensive highlights included a two-run home run by Sam White and a 3-run shot from Maddie Evans which provided the winning margin.

In the afternoon game, the Beavers fell to defending 3A state champion Valley Catholic 4-0. Megen Ickler pitched the complete game for the Beavers and Sami Picken went the distance for Valley Catholic.

Megan Spooner slides in safely
for one of the Beavers 8 runs
against Crescent Valley.

Beavers Even Record at Newberg

2008-03-23T10:00:00.000-07:00

Beaverton rallied from a 3-run deficit, took its first lead in the top of the last inning, and then closed out the game in a driving rainstorm beating the Newberg Tigers 5-4 in 6 innings. The win evened Beaverton's record at 1-1, following the 7-3 loss at Forest Grove on Wednesday.

Kayla Lauro's 2nd-inning home run over the center field fence was the only scoring for the Beavers early, who finally got to Newberg pitcher Casey Bearden late in the game. Beaverton trailed twice - 1-0 before Lauro's homer - and 4-1 before rallying for 3 runs in the 5th and the game-winner in the 6th. Molly Tyler started on the mound for Beaverton and Megen Ickler came on in late-game relief and got the win as the team's offense got untracked.

The teams work together to cover the field. The game was delayed about 30 minutes during this rain event.

The Beavers now travel to Central Oregon for six games in three days, assuming it doesn't snow :).

Third Annual Spaghetti Dinner Draws Hundreds, Earns Thousands

2008-03-02T16:57:00.000-08:00

The Beaverton Softball program's Third Annual Spaghetti Dinner and Silent Auction was a huge success. More than 300 people filled the east half of the BHS Cafeteria and helped the team earn about $4,000 before expenses. The delicious spaghetti dinner was donated by Ernesto's Italian Restaurant.

Team members worked hard to set up and clean up and also had a chance to watch the boys basketball team beat Jesuit. Meanwhile, coaches and parents served meals and helped guide attendees to more than 50 auction items, including baskets put together by the team. Among the most popular attractions was an appearance by Madame Deandra, a Tarot Card reader.

BHS Softball thanks all those who attended and made bids on auction items. We look forward to seeing you at this fun event next year!

February 22nd - 3rd Annual Spaghetti Dinner & Silent Auction!!!

2008-01-16T14:15:00.000-08:00

The Beaverton softball program has set the date for its 3rd Annual Spaghetti Dinner & Silent Auction. This event draws about 500 attendees every year, and features excellent food from Ernesto's Italian Restaurant. Auction items this year will include sports memorabilia, golf and beach packages, Blazer tickets and much, much more. The Dinner and Auction will take place before and during the Beaverton vs. Jesuit boys basketball games.

DATE: Friday, February 22nd, 2008

TIME: 5:00 - 9:00 pm

PLACE: Beaverton High School Cafeteria

COST: Just $5 per person!!!

To purchase tickets for this fun event, call 503-720-4740 or email to asaoregon@yahoo.com

SEE YOU THERE!

Hitting Sessions Begin

2007-12-02T14:32:00.000-08:00

All Beaverton softball players are invited to attend twice-weekly hitting sessions. Sessions will be held each Monday and Wednesday beginning at 3:00 pm. The first Monday session will be Monday, December 3.

If you would like to hit, but are unable to make the Monday/Wednesday schedule, please let the coaching staff know.

Mental Clinics Set to Start

2007-11-13T09:18:00.000-08:00

Being mentally focused, tough and flexible is a key to success in any sport, in school, and in life. With this in mind, Beaverton High softball players are invited to attend a meeting to learn more about the mental aspects of softball. This meeting will take place tomorrow, Wednesday, November 14, 2007 beginning at 3:15 pm. It should last about an hour and will take place on the "Softball balcony" in the main gym.

"Mental clinics" are tentatively scheduled for each Wednesday at 3:15 pm.

Marron Promises "New Era" At BHS

2007-10-10T19:46:00.000-07:00

Jim Marron has been named the new head Softball coach at Beaverton High School. At a meeting tonight, Marron promised a new beginning for softball. Marron said his primary focus will be the development of each player's individual skills, as well as their understanding of the game and what it means to be part of a team. Lem Montoya will continue as an Assistant Coach. Most recently, Marron coached the Red Heat 18 Gold team. Marron's daughter Kaylyn graduated from Beaverton last spring and is currently playing at College of the Siskiyous in Northern California.

Marron said that workouts for players will begin during the winter, with position-specific drills scheduled for pitchers and catchers. A pitching coach will be brought onto the coaching staff to reinforce work pitchers do with their own pitching coach, as well as work on game-specific drills. Workouts will be scheduled around winter sports programs whenever necessary, and all players are encouraged to attend whenever possible. Winter work will include mental training as well as physical training.

Marron stressed that failure in the classroom will not be tolerated, and that the team will do whatever it can to assist student-athletes in maintaining their grades. This may include study halls, peer tutoring and other methods. The coaching staff will be proactive in checking to ensure that players are keeping up on schoolwork.

Marron intends to carry 13 to 15 players on varsity next season, and vowed that only the best would make the team. He noted that attitude was an important component of a player's ability, and that each player would have a specific role, and would know what that role was and why it had been assigned. Marron stressed the importance of communication, and asked players and parents to feel free to contact him with questions. He said he is a frequent email communicator and that parents and players should be on the lookout for information about workouts, events and other items in that manner.

Montoya discussed the team's plans and needs for the upcoming season. Among these were fundraising and field work. The staff intends on upgrading the JV field this year, including the installation of a "breakaway" outfield fence. The varsity outfield fence also needs replacement, and the stadium needs a sound system. Some of this work will have to be done with parent and/or player "sweat equity," and every family should take part.

Plans for a spring break trip out of the state are still up in the air. Two places the team has travelled in the past - Palm Springs and Arizona - appear to be out due to differences in spring break weeks. Possibilities include Northern California, Las Vegas and Florida.

Fundraising falls mainly into three categories: Players are asked to send letters requesting donations to friends and family. In late January or early February during basketball season, the team holds a "Spaghetti Dinner and Silent Auction" event in the cafeteria. Finally, the varsity outfield fence is designed to hold advertising banners for individuals and companies. More information about each of these activities will be provided at a later time.

Montoya also noted that the team needs the following specific help:

Someone to keep the scorebook during games and to compile statistics
A Concession Stand coordinator to ensure people are signed up to work every game
A parent representative to the coaching staff

Also needed are JV and JV 2 coaches.

Further information on all these items will be made available in coming weeks. Questions may be directed to Marron at (503) 318-9678 or bhs.softball@verizon.net or to Montoya at coachin3@aol.com.

Player/Parent Meeting Set

2007-10-08T09:48:00.001-07:00

A meeting for all returning and new Beaverton High School softball players has been set for Wednesday, October 10 at 6:00 pm in the BHS Cafeteria. All women who are considering playing softball for Beaverton High School in 2008 are required to attend, along with at least one parent for each player.

At this meeting, the new Varsity Coach will be introduced. In addition, details of the off-season work-out program, the Varsity's spring break trip, fundraising and other issues will be discussed.

Please note that this is a REQUIRED meeting for players and parents. If you have any questions, please contact Lem Montoya at coachin3@aol.com.

Edwards Out As BHS Softball Coach

2007-08-28T10:39:00.000-07:00

This is not news to many, but it is now official that Head Softball Coach Gary Edwards has resigned from Beaverton High. He has accepted the Head Coaching position at Tigard High School. The job should be posted this week on the Beaverton School District webpage.

Beaverton Athletic Director Jim Meuwissen told parents and players last evening that he understands the importance of hiring the right person to replace Edwards. He asked parents and players to spread word of the opening to anyone they believed would make a good head coach. Meuwissen said he hoped to hire a new coach by mid-September.

During a team meeting last night, Assistant Coach Lem Montoya announced he intends to be a candidate for the head coaching position. Montoya noted that he and Edwards had worked closely together for the past 5 years at Beaverton. Should he win the job, Montoya intends to set higher expectations for grades and off-season work-outs. He said every player is expected to be working on hitting over the winter, and that pitchers are expected to be throwing every week. He also noted that all options for the team's Spring Break '08 trip are on the table at the moment. Possibilities include Florida, Palm Springs or staying in state.

A second player/parent meeting is tentatively scheduled for mid-September, probably after the new head coach has been named.

2007 Varsity Season Game Schedule

2007-05-11T18:29:00.000-07:00

Pre-Season

3/12/07 - @ Tigard 5, Beaverton 2
3/13/07 - @ Central Catholic 6, Beaverton 2
3/15/07 - @ Beaverton 2, Lincoln 1
3/16/07 - @ Beaverton 2, Clackamas 3 (8 innings)
3/21/07 - @ Beaverton 1, Sandy 0
3/22/07 - @ McMinnville 1, Beaverton 0
3/26/07 - @ Crater High vs. Corvallis [RAINED OUT]
3/26/07 - @ Crater High - Beaverton 0, Forest Grove 3
3/27/07 - @ Crater High - Beaverton 4, South Salem 9
3/27/07 - @ Crater High - Beaverton 3, Churchill 4
4/3/07 - @ Beaverton 0, Tualatin 2

Metro League

4/10/07 - @ Jesuit 9, Beaverton 1
4/12/07 - @ Westview 5, Beaverton 0
4/13/07 - @ Sunset 2, Beaverton 0
4/17/07 - Southridge 4, Beaverton 1
4/20/07 - Jesuit 3, Beaverton 1
4/23/07 - Westview 1, Beaverton 0
4/24/07 - Aloha 0, Beaverton 2
4/25/07 - Sunset 4, Beaverton 0
4/27/07 - Southridge 6, Beaverton 0
4/30/07 - Aloha 1, Beaverton 0
5/2/07 - Jesuit 2, Beaverton 1
5/7/07 - Sunset 2, Beaverton 3 (8 innings)
5/8/07 - Westview 10, Beaverton 0 (5 innings)
5/9/07 - Southridge 14, Beaverton 1
5/11/07 - Aloha 5, Beaverton 1

Note: Weather conditions may cause date, time or location to change

Alumna Report - Nicole Cade

2007-05-05T10:50:00.000-07:00

Beaverton softball alum Nicole Cade is continuing her career as a pitcher at Ithaca College in New York. Cade has enjoyed an outstanding junior season at the Division III school. Cade is sporting a 17-3 record for the Bombers, compiling a 1.14 ERA while striking out 134 batters. She is also a threat from the plate, hitting .355 with 9 doubles and a home run. Cade has also recorded 22 RBI's. During her 3 years at Ithaca, Cade has gone 49-14 while striking out more than 400 batters.

Last week, Cade was named the Empire 8 and NCAC "Player of the Week." She earned the award by pitching 3 shutouts and striking out 30 batters during the week. She also batted .450 during the 3 game set, with 3 doubles and 4 RBI's.

At 1:00 today, Ithaca (32-6 and ranked #2 nationally) faces St. John Fisher in the Empire 8 Conference Championship game at Ithaca.

Beavers Fall to Crusaders in First League Action

2007-04-12T06:50:00.000-07:00

Kaylin Marron applies the tag to a Jesuit baserunner. This runner was called "safe." Marron saw her first action Tuesday after recovering from elbow surgery.

In a game delayed a day due to rain and moved to Jesuit, the defending state champion Crusaders beat Beaverton 9-1 on Tuesday.

Alumna Report - Stephanie Zwetschke

2007-04-01T15:03:00.000-07:00

2006 Beaverton graduate Stephanie Zwetschke is continuing her softball career at California's College of the Siskiyou's. The team is 27-1 so far this season, and is dominated by Oregon softball players. Zwetschke, who plays 3rd base for the Lady Eagles, has appeared in 16 games this season. Stephanie is hitting .436 with 6 doubles, one home run and 10 runs batted in.

Varsity Drops 2 at North Medford Tournament

2007-03-27T21:51:00.000-07:00

Beaverton Catcher Janelle Winship put the tag on this South Salem runner, but was called for blocking the plate

Beaverton closed out a 3-game set in the North Medford Tournament on Tuesday with losses to South Salem and Churchill. The Beavers fell behind South Salem early and trailed 9-0 before rallying for 4 runs in the 6th and 7th innings.

In the second game, the Beavers fell behind Churchill 4-0 before a 6th inning rally featuring a 3-run triple by Freshman Megan Spooner. Trailing 4-3, the Beavers moved the tying run to 3rd base in the 7th, but were unable to bring her home.

Beavers Fall to Forest Grove 3-0

2007-03-26T20:32:00.000-07:00

The Beavers lost to Forest Grove this afternoon in the Medford tournament 3-0. Megen Ickler pitched for Beaverton. Above, Megan Spooner fields a bunt and prepares to gun the runner out at first.

The Beavers first game this morning against Corvallis was rained out.

McMinnville Escapes Tight Beav Defense, 1-0

2007-03-24T11:48:00.000-07:00

Senior Claire Velaski pitched a 2-hitter, but McMinnville scored on a two-out, bottom-of-the-seventh home run and won 1-0 in a pitchers' duel at McMinnville. The Beavers played excellent defense against a top Pac-9 team.

Ickler Perfect in Win Over Pioneers

2007-03-22T08:05:00.000-07:00

Sophomore Pitcher Megan Ickler threw a perfect game and struck out 10 in a 1-0 win over Sandy Wednesday.

Beavers Beat Lincoln 2-1

2007-03-16T10:55:00.000-07:00

2007 Junior Varsity Roster

2007-03-09T06:51:00.000-08:00

Number - Name

1 - Ashley Baribault
2 - Chelsea Lambert
9 - Erika Strother-Kleinke
13 - Samantha White
14 - Brieanne Vanderpool
16 - Kristin Kenck
17 - Kayla Lauro
18 - Lindsey Allen
19 - Danyela Marcille
21 - Cara Gabrielson
23 - Sofie Sherman-Burton
25 - Anna Johnson
28 - Lexie Schmidt
36 - Monica Neal

Head Coach - Chris Morgan
Asst Coach - Stefanie Muir
Asst Coach - Dana Mowrey

2007 Varsity Roster

2007-02-25T14:40:00.000-08:00

Number - Name - Class Year
3 - Johnson, Hannah - Fr
4 - McMahon, Hannah - Jr
5 - Lilla, Stephanie - Jr
6 - Evans, Maddie - So
7 - Winship, Janelle - Sr
8 - Marron, Kaylin - Sr
10 - Finlayson, Tori - Sr
11 - Velaski, Claire - Sr
12 - Spooner, Megan - Fr
14 - Tidrick, Jessica - Sr
15 - Heiselt, Kit - Sr
20 - Ellerbe, Caitlin - So
22 - Ickler, Megan - So
24 - Mays, Claudia - Jr

Head Coach - Gary Edwards
Asst Coach - Lem Montoya
Asst Coach - Chris Garcia