This year's varsity softball team under the direction of Ms. Lundy and Mr. O won the League I Conference III title for the second straight year. Its League record was 13-1. Ms. Lundy told the girls this was one of her best teams in the last 10 years.
Highlights of the season included two wins against Port Washington. In the first meeting, Stephanie Ringbauer struck out 10 and was 2 for 3 with an RBI in a 3-1 win. In the other close contest with Port, a 12-11 win by the Dalers came in the sixth inning by Ashley Vitale's single that scored Kim Chodkowski. In the first of two games versus Calhoun who had the same record, the Dalers had lost 7-6. However, the second game proved to be the reason why they won the Conference. A great defensive display by the Daler's and the sixth inning 3-run homer by Marianne Vanmeter won the game 7-5. The deciding factor for the Dalers was that one run advantage.
Pitcher Stephanie Ringbauer (All-Conference Honors) was consistent and strong throughout the season. Ten wins are credited to her and she produced many key hits and RBIs including three home runs. Nicola Devine also got the call on the mound with four wins. In the game against Hempstead, she struck out 15, was 3-3, one hit a big triple and an RBI. Patricia Modena (All-Conference) was one of the senior catchers. Her experience shined with tag outs at the plate and throwing runners out at second. In her last regular season game, she was 2 for 3 with five RBIs which clinched the title. Melanie Defalco also got the call behind the plate. She also displayed a strong arm and leadership. At bat she produced many hard shots and home runs throughout her career. Kim Chodkowski (Scholar Athlete) made an excellent throw from right field against Plainview for the out at the plate. She was a true versatile team player who also had a homer against Elmont. Nicole Sottile's ability to stretch and catch at first base was key for the Daler defense all season. Her bat was hot with a beautiful shot down the third base line for a triple against Elmont and a home run against Uniondale. Alicia Ferraro had a great game against Calhoun. Solid defense was noted at second base. Tiger used her bunting ability and speed to get on base. Becky Seepersad was the shortstop who covered a large territory. With her strong arm, she made many big plays all season. Numerous tag outs at second are credited to her. Moreover, long drives for a home run against Freeport. Ashley Vitale defended third well. She made many outs from there whether it was a hard shot due to her quick glove or a bunt, which was seen in the Port Washington 3-1 win. With her bat, she connected for hard-hit singles and doubles or executed the bunt to move runners into scoring positions. Jen Mextorf (All Division) was also big in the Calhoun win with catches in left field and a shotgun for an arm. She too had an excellent bat with a triple in the Sewanhaka win and a homerun against Elmont. MaryAnn Vanmeter (All County Honors) was unbelievable in center field and produced many outs. She had the hottest bat of the season. In total four home runs, one a grand slam, besides many doubles and singles. She was the leader in RBIs. Danielle Dialto got the call in the outfield. She is quick to the ball with a strong arm. She blasted a home run against Uniondale and had two for the season. With her speed, she was used as an effective pinch runner. Samantha Kolver also got the call in the outfield and made many outs in right. She had two big singles in the Sewanhaka win and was able to connect with hard shots as well. Freshman Kelly Ann Keenan got time behind the plate or at first and was sharp. She also was a designated hitter who was tough at the plate and in the Plainview game, was 2-3 with a double, single, and a walk.
The team finished 12th in the county. In the playoffs, they lost to a Division I Syosset team 6-0. Congratulations on a great season.