Todd Bunner was surprised when he found out that one of his games was rescheduled due to the solar eclipse on Monday.
The Southmoreland softball coach wasn't surprised when he looked at his team's stats after five games.
His team is dominating its opponents.
Bunner explained that he's not being arrogant when he says he's not surprised by their performance, as they have high expectations and a strong team.
Southmoreland is 5-0 and hasn't let any runs in, outscoring opponents 52-0. They've ended four games early due to the 10-run rule.
Senior shortstop Amarah McCutcheon expressed that their success is beyond her expectations, but at the same time, it was expected.
The Scotties, who were the WPIAL Class 3A runner-up last season, retained most of their experienced players, giving them an edge in various situations.
Several factors have set the team up for an enjoyable and successful season.
Junior second baseman Riley Puckey emphasized their focus on specific aspects like preparing for different pitchers and working on defensive drills, as they believe that solid defense wins games.
The Scotties, ranked No. 2 in WPIAL Class 3A, have 50 hits and only two errors.
McCutcheon, a Cal (Pa.) commit, credited their preparation and teamwork for their success and emphasized the importance of moving on after each win.
Senior pitcher Maddie Brown is a crucial part of the team's lineup and has also excelled in her pitching, boasting impressive stats in the circle.
Bunner commended Maddie Brown for her outstanding performance, highlighting her resilience in adverse weather conditions and her contributions to scoring runs.
Eight seniors on the team have been playing since their freshman year.
Bunner mentioned that six or seven of the seniors were starters as freshmen and emphasized their talent and improvement, along with the experience of the juniors in playoffs.
He also pointed out the lack of drama within the team, highlighting their strong camaraderie despite not all being best friends.
The Scotties faced a tough challenge against Latrobe, a strong playoff team, and managed to secure a win despite being out-hit by maintaining a solid defense.
Bunner acknowledged that their win against Latrobe was achieved without relying solely on hitting,
Brown emerged victorious against Latrobe ace Kayla Williams, demonstrating her prowess in a competitive matchup.
Brown and McCutcheon hit home runs in the Scotties' impressive 10-0 season opener against Penn-Trafford.
When asked about potential weaknesses in the team, Bunner expressed confidence in their abilities, focusing on the importance of staying healthy and aiming for success in the playoffs.
Southmoreland’s volleyball team had a successful season in the autumn, winning the first 3 games but then losing in the WPIAL quarterfinals to Avonworth.
Most of the players on the volleyball team also participate in softball.
McCutcheon said that about 90% of the team also plays softball.
Senior Kaylee Doppleheuer is going to Bethany to play volleyball, but there are other athletes on the team who are also heading to college. Brown is going to Denison, where she might join as a walk-on, and senior Gabriella Grabiak is headed to Pitt-Greensburg.
The Scotties might face Avonworth again in the softball finals. The reigning champions Antelopes are currently ranked No. 1 in 3A.
Avonworth has won against Southmoreland in the playoffs for the past four games, and they have won three district titles in four seasons.
Puckey said, “We’re not going to give up without a fight.
