Softball Team Wins As Laaksonen Sets Record
Newtown High School's softball team followed up a 6-1 win over visiting Bethel, behind pitcher Lauren Wilcox's 13-strikeout performance on May 9, by toppling host Stratford 21-0 in a five-inning run-rule effort the next day. The highlight of the game was Katie Laaksonen setting the school's all-time hits record with her 125th career base hit - a run-scoring double.
Against Bethel, Wilcox allowed just four hits, and walked three batters, to go along with her baker's dozen strikeouts. Laaksonen had two hits and a pair of runs scored. Mackenzie Macchiarulo had a pair of extra-base hits and an RBI, and Kamdyn Moroney drove in two runs. Macchiarulo, Moroney, and Tess Mubarek combined for a trio of triples.
In the win over Stratford, pitcher Sydney Flint won her second game, allowing two hits and no walks, and striking out five.
Laaksonen added a second hit after breaking the school record, which had been held by Jess Gibbons. Wilcox went 4-for-5, with a double and three singles, drove in two, and scored a run. Macchiarulo, Laaksonen, and Emily Bell each had two hits. Mali Klorczyk, Moroney, and Mubarek both walked four times as Newtown drew 18 free passes.
The Hawks, following road contests against Notre Dame-Fairfield and New Fairfield, will close out the regular slate with a pair of potentially challenging home games against tough conference rivals. Newtown will take on New Milford on Monday, May 16, and Masuk of Monroe on Tuesday, May 17; both games will be held at Treadwell Park with first pitch at 7 pm.