On Monday May 13, Xavier’s varsity softball team won the state championship, ending Xavier’s spring sports season with a bang.
This is Xavier’s sixth state title this year, securing this year of athletics as one that will go down in Xavier sports history.
The game was a nail-biter for the Gators. After leading 3-0 for five innings, Xavier saw Queen Creek score twice in the bottom of the 6th.
During the final moments of the game, the score remained 3-2. With bases loaded, two strikes and three balls and two outs, everything depended on the last play.
On the final pitch, a Bulldog batter made contact with Angie Falls’ pitch, sending the ball flying to centerfield. Captain Lauren Putz ‘24 caught it, winning the game and making a memorable end to her high school career.
“Once I caught the ball I don’t really remember what happened. It felt like a dream,” said Putz. “I am so grateful that I got to catch the game-winning ball this year, as it was the same my sophomore year. Just winning the state championship was the best way I could’ve imagined swinging off the Xavier softball team.”
Putz made history for Xavier sports, holding the most home runs in a career for the school.
One of the most influential players in the night’s game was Angie Falls ‘27.
Falls pitched for seven consecutive innings, racking up 11 strikeouts.
Her teammate, Evy Matthews ‘26 said, “Angie has been an outstanding player this season. She is an incredible teammate and pitcher.”
On the offensive side, Riley McKeever ‘25, was on fire. She hit three RBIs, accounting for the total points Xavier scored.
Not only was she influential at-bat, but McKeever excelled as catcher, shutting out the opposing team for five innings.
McKeever expressed how Xavier softball has made her a better leader on and off the field. The team can’t wait to see how she leads next year as a senior.
The win was evidence of extreme dedication to the sport. “Every single girl contributed to the win and every single girl deserves a ring and recognition,” said Putz.
Monday night’s game showed the essence of Xavier sports. Whether it’s in basketball, tennis, soccer, golf, archery or softball, Xavier athletes showed graceful sportsmanship while in the pursuit of excellence.
