Holy Cross Dominates Susquehanna 16-0 in District 2 Single-A Semifinal Behind 14-Run First Inning
By: Brad Loff | Sportzwire | May 23, 2025 | Photo courtesy Holy Cross
The Holy Cross Varsity Crusaders left no doubt in Friday’s District 2 Single-A semifinal, overpowering the Susquehanna Lady Sabers 16-0 in just three innings at home. A staggering 14-run outburst in the first inning set the tone for a mercy-rule win that secured the Crusaders’ place in the title game.
Holy Cross sent 18 batters to the plate in the bottom of the first, racking up nine hits, five walks, and capitalizing on aggressive baserunning. Lila Kolcharno went 2-for-3 in the inning alone, finishing the game with 2 hits, 2 RBIs, and 2 stolen bases. Claire Helring was the offensive spark, going a perfect 2-for-2 with 4 RBIs. Mia Galella added two hits, two doubles, and 2 RBIs, while Peyton Graboske ripped a triple, scored once, drove in a run, and stole two bases.
Ava Schmidt handled business in the circle, throwing a three-inning shutout. She allowed just one hit, walked three, and struck out four on 48 pitches. The Crusaders were flawless defensively and racked up eight total stolen bases.
Susquehanna’s lone hit came from Jordyn Oney-Roth, while Lauren Huyck swiped two bases despite struggling on the mound. Huyck and Paige Heller combined to give up 10 hits and 16 runs over two innings, walking nine and striking out just two.
The Crusaders’ patience at the plate paid off with 9 walks drawn and only 3 left stranded on base, making nearly every opportunity count. Eight of the nine Holy Cross starters reached base safely, and the team committed no errors.
Holy Cross will now turn its focus to the District 2 Single-A championship game with momentum fully on their side.
Top Performers & Stat Breakdown:
Claire Helring: 2-for-2, 4 RBIs, 2 SB
Lila Kolcharno: 2-for-3, 2 RBIs, 2 SB, 2 Runs
Mia Galella: 2-for-3, 2 2Bs, 2 RBIs, 2 SB
Peyton Graboske: 1-for-1, 3B, RBI, 2 BB, 2 SB
Ava Schmidt (P): 3.0 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 4 K, 3 BB
Emily Fitzpatrick: 1-for-1, RBI
Team Hits: 10
Team Walks: 9
Team SB: 8
Errors: 0
