The Observer, March 21, 2008
Volume XL, Issue 21
Spring Break Roundup
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Baseball
The Case baseball team literally got off to a warm start this season by enjoying their spring break down in Sanford, Fla., for the UAA Championships. The Spartans began the season on a high note, defeating fifth-ranked Emory University, 5-4, on March 7 in Atlanta, before the championship tournament began. Zach Fry, Phil Keefe, Kevin Haley, Ben Faber, and Clay Hurley led a ferocious comeback, scoring four runs in the top of the ninth inning.
But the Spartans were unable to carry the momentum into the UAA Championships and suffered four straight losses to Brandeis, Rochester, WashU, and Brandeis again before beating Rochester, 4-3, on March 14. The Spartans fought off a rainy atmosphere and were able to grind out a win. "The conditions weren't the best, but we played our hearts out for a full nine innings out there," Tim Coan said after the game. Haley pitched with command, and Faber had a walk-off single to give the Spartans their second win of the season.
Softball
The Case softball team spent their spring break in Altamonte Springs, Fla. , competing in the UAA Championships against division foes Brandeis, WashU, Rochester, and Emory. The women came away with one win, despite several close games. The Spartans lost five games by three runs or fewer. The inability to close out games is something that coach Jennie Amodio acknowledged, but feels as though it "will get better as the season goes along."
One reason is that the team lacks experience at the collegiate level. The Spartans have seven freshmen, two sophomores, and two seniors.
The Spartans won the last game of the tournament, 2-1. Ruth Sagartz pitched a complete game, fanning seven and allowing only three hits. Teddi Jacobson and Angel Rice scored the runs for the Spartans.
Indoor Track
The Case men's indoor track team wrapped up their winter season, placing fifth out of eight teams in the UAA championships held in Veale Center on March 7 and 8. Dominic Smith placed first in the 5000-meter run and finished third in the 3000-meter run. His teammates Brandon Jeffries, Obinna Nwanna, and Victor Whitelock also shined for the Spartans, each placing second in shot put, high jump, and the 800-meter run, respectively.
The women placed fourth out of eight teams in the tournament. Esther Erb, Kristen Bowhers, Sarah Gill, and Bettina Kaphingst combined to win the distance medley relay. Erb recorded a 5:09 time to win the mile run, while placing first in the 3000-meter run as well. Elizabeth Ehrke was also a top performer for the Spartans, placing second in the weight throw.
"The next few years, we have a great set of runners, so we should be in the top half of the division," said Erb.
