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04/17/2022 12:00 AMAfter finishing last year with seven wins, the Guilford softball team appears to be well on its way to topping that total in the 2022 campaign. The Grizzlies already have three victories through the early goings this spring and have even been competitive in their defeats.
Guilford lost its season opener, but then came back to get wins against Hamden (6-2) and Wilbur Cross (19-2) during the first week of play. In last week’s action, the Grizzlies took a 5-1 loss to Cheshire before rebounding with a 2-1 victory versus Mercy to improve their record to 3-2.
With her squad off to a solid start, Head Coach Meghan Wiese wants Guilford to continue striving toward its goal of making states after the Grizzlies came up just shy of qualifying in 2021.
“I want us to focus on one game at a time and adjust where we need to be successful. Of course, qualifying for the State Tournament is high on our list, and I am confident with this team we can accomplish that goal,” Wiese said. “Since day one, the girls have come to practice with positive attitudes and are willing to put in the work. I am excited to see what this season has in store for them both individually and as a team. I think this group deserves a successful season.”
Guilford’s success starts with senior captain shortstop Allie Petonito. An All-SCC First Team selection last year, Petonito is an example for her teammates on a day-in, day-out basis.
“Allie Petonito returns to shortstop and looks to add another All-SCC accolade to her already impressive high school athletic career,” said Coach Wiese. “Petonito sets the tone and leads on and off the field. She gives everything she’s got, and I expect nothing less this year. She makes sure everyone is included.”
Guilford also returns a standout sophomore in catcher Addie Smith, who earned All-SCC Second Team honors for the Grizzlies last season. Sophomore Sophia Meade has been Guilford’s workhorse on the mound, accumulating 45 strikeouts in 28 innings pitched thus far this year.
Guilford took a 5-1 defeat at Cheshire in its first game of the week on April 11. Smith went 1-for-3 and drove home Guilford’s lone run of the game on a double.
Two days later, the Grizzlies hosted Mercy and won the contest by a 2-1 score. Meade earned the win on the mound for Guilford with an 11-strikeout performance. Junior Charlotte Martocci went 2-for-4 with a two-run double in the victory. Smith and junior Sophia Stanger both had a double, while Petonito and freshman Ella Munson had 2 hits apiece for Coach Wiese’s squad.
“The coaching staff is focusing on taking it day by day. When we focus one day at a time, we can accomplish much more,” said Wiese.
“Making sure the girls are respectful to one another and supporting one another is also important. I continue to try my best to motivate each player and push them to be their best,” she added, “letting them know hard work does pay off and that it’s OK to fail, as long as you give everything you’ve got.”
Guilford’s senior class also features Ava Singleton and Maddy Smith. The Grizzlies’ junior corps also includes Sam Green, Eva Riga, and Olivia Verme. The other sophomores on the squad are Liz Barcello, Sofia Cuozzo, Marley Falcone, Sadie Iozzie, Adrianna Piascik, and Olivia Pionke. Guilford’s freshmen class also includes Shay Hendrickson and Leanne Petonito.
Coach Wiese feels pleased to see members of every class making contributions on the ballfield thus far this spring.
“Junior third baseman Charlotte Martocci has been on fire at the plate with a batting average of .500 and slugging percentage of 1.357 in four games. Freshman Ella Munson is also finding her groove as she begins her high school career in a Grizzlies’ uniform,” Wiese said. “Senior outfielders Maddy Smith and Ava Singleton look to end their high school careers on a high note and make contributions in this year’s success. Juniors Sam Green and Sophia Stanger have also contributed to the team’s early success, playing in the outfield. Sophomores Marley Falcone and Adrianna Piascik are also looking to make a positive impact to the team both defensively and at the plate.”
Coach Wiese’s primary goal for the season is for her players to continue improving by working hard every day. If the Grizzlies do that, Wiese believes that they have a solid shot to punch their playoff ticket in 2022.
“We need to continue to work hard and compete. We return several starters from the 2021 season, and they are ready to play,” said Wiese. “The team continues to support one another and gives 100-percent effort.”