IAC SOFTBALL: SWITZER THROWS 2-HITTER, STRIKES OUT 14, GOES 4-FOR-4 TO LEAD ND TO IAC CROWN (2022-05-12)

Southern Tier Sports Report
AURORA — Olivia Switzer threw a two-hitter with 14 strikeouts and went 4-for-4 at the plate and the Notre Dame softball team captured the IAC Championship on Thursday night at Wells College with an 11-0 win over Lansing.

Notre Dame, who is ranked fourth in the Class C state rankings, scored runs in all six innings they were at bat in the win over No. 21 Lansing

“They were very pumped,” Notre Dame coach Michael Maloney said. “Two years in a row, very excited. The good thing about this year is I think the girls continue to get better every game. They definitely had their best game of the year so far tonight.”

The Crusaders scored a run in the first, three in the second, a run in the third, two in the fourth, three in the fifth and one in the sixth inning.

Switzer allowed just two hits and struck out 14 in the win. At the plate Switzer was 4-for-4 with four RBI and two runs scored, one of her hits was a double.

“Having Bruce McNail back has paid major dividends,” Michael Maloney said. “He works with her constantly and he takes her to a new level, and she’s very receptive to what he wants her to do.”

Ava Mustico had two hits, with a double, two RBI and two runs scored and Lawson Bigelow had a pair of hits, with two RBI.

Peyton Miller had a hit and scored two runs and Shannon Maloney and Paige Harvey each had a hit, an RBI and a run scored, while Lexie Blitz had a hit, an RBI and two runs scored.

Maddie Gleason scored a run in the game.

For Notre Dame this win helps them as they get ready for sectionals.

“I think it was big, every win helps you with your seeding,” Maloney said. “Lansing is a solid team, they have a good record this year. Their pitching was solid, their catching was solid to. The score may not be representative of the competition. It was definitely a good competition to help us get ready for sectionals.”

The Crusaders will prepare for sectionals where they should be a higher seed and have a few days before they have to start playing games.

“Few days to practice and get healthy,” Maloney.
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