By Josh Lashley
West Milford — The fact that the West Milford High School softball program has enjoyed yet another successful softball season, given the knowledgeable coaching staff, and talented, experienced student-athletes on the roster is not at all surprising.
But, at the same time, it’s very much worth noting.
The Highlanders finished with an overall record of 16-8 and they had a mark of 8-2 in the Big North Conference Independence Division.
They placed second in the Independence Division, just one game behind Fair Lawn.
West Milford also advanced to the NJSIAA North 1 Group 3 Sectional Tournament quarterfinal round before losing to Indian Hills.
“Passaic Valley on April 9 walk-off win at home 5-4 over a good team [was memorable],’’ West Milford head coach Nicole Gwinnett said. “Abigail Porch had the game-winning hit it helped us grow as a team. All of the seniors came up big in this game, showed how resilient we are. State (Sectional) game against River Dell May 18th down 3-2 in the bottom of the seventh, junior Kristen Cienki tied the game and sophomore Anna Brand walk-off hit to win 4-3.’’
Coach Gwinnett said Porch has been a team leader this spring.
“Abigail Porch, Alexa Barca and Kayla Yuhas were true leaders, they played every game of the season and really led by example,’’ Gwinnett said. “The younger players really looked up to them. They were the captains of this year’s team. Each senior played with passion and heart, they will be deeply missed not only for their softball ability but their all round demeanor. They really stood out and made a difference on and off the field.’’
Many players demonstrated the ability to improve consistently this year for the Highlanders.
“There were a lot of girls that really stepped up whether it was one game one practice or just helping a teammate when they were having a bad day,’’ Gwinnett said. “Jessica Perucki has proven to be one of the best players in the Passaic County and League. Reached 100 career hits as a junior and striking out 199 batters this season. Mackenzie McGuinness (junior, third base), is very athletic covers a lot of ground, ability to hit for power and great speed on the bases. Natalie Marzalik (junior) had some big shoes to fill in center field for Jessica Utter (2017 graduate). Natalie’s speed and knowledge of the game helped the team all season.
“Samantha Amundson (junior, right field) is a great team player motivated the team every game played a big part in our solid defense. Jessica Reilly (junior, outfield) surprised the coaching staff this season with her contribution of her role as a runner, she emerged as a total player with her speed and slapping ability. Anna Brand (sophomore) is very solid all around especially offensively, stepped up and played right field. Jenna Moran (junior) was the unsung hero she caught every game but two this season-calling pitches and really getting Jessica Perucki to become a better pitcher. Kristen Cienki (junior) all season she filled her role as the DP (designated player). Kristen was a big asset to the team with her contribution offensively. Natasha Ford (junior, pitcher) is a great team player, stepped in when we needed her to pitch.’’
Look for the Highlanders to be a strong squad once again in 2019.
“We have a lot of returning experienced players,’’ Gwinnett said. “We are looking forward to next season. We have some younger players that will be looked upon to step up.’’