By: SportzWire | Sportzwire | June 17, 2025 | Photo courtesy Team
In a classic showdown of grit and timely hitting, the GWA 11/12 All-Stars mounted a thrilling comeback to edge Back Mountain 9-8 in a game that showcased determination, resilience, and clutch performances on both sides.
Back Mountain wasted no time, jumping out to a 3-0 lead in the top of the first inning with aggressive baserunning and sharp contact. They continued to apply pressure throughout the game, led offensively by C. Rossick (2-for-3), S. Antall (2-for-3, RBI), and Norah Oliver (2-for-3, double). Oliver also pitched a complete game for Back Mountain, recording 6 strikeouts in the effort.
GWA clawed back steadily, chipping away at the lead thanks to key contributions from throughout the lineup. Natalie Pikas anchored the team both on the mound and emotionally, striking out 7 batters and shutting the door in the top of the 6th with back-to-back strikeouts to seal the victory.
Offensively, GWA had several standout performances:
Harper McHale was electric at the plate, going 3-for-4 with an RBI.
Isabella Magallanes turned in a perfect night, 3-for-3.
Melanie Redmond powered the offense with a 2-for-3 performance that included a double, triple, and RBI.
Gianna Cook added a big double and 2 RBIs, going 1-for-3.
Stella Roberts chipped in a double and RBI as part of her 1-for-3 showing.
Emma Cornia (2-for-3) and Emma Stevens (1-for-4, double) helped keep the pressure on.
Sophia Adams drove in a key run as well.
Down 8-4 entering the bottom of the fifth, GWA delivered when it mattered most. A furious rally saw them push across five runs to grab their first lead of the game, 9-8. That momentum carried into the top of the sixth, where Pikas shut things down in style to close out a memorable win.
STAT BREAKDOWN – TOP PERFORMERS
GWA
Harper McHale: 3-for-4, RBI
Isabella Magallanes: 3-for-3
Melanie Redmond: 2-for-3, double, triple, RBI
Gianna Cook: 1-for-3, double, 2 RBIs
Natalie Pikas (W): CG, 7 strikeouts
Back Mountain
C. Rossick: 2-for-3
S. Antall: 2-for-3, RBI
N. Oliver: 2-for-3, double | (L): CG, 6 strikeouts