Sports
Clutch Performers Lead Teams to Victory
A freshman rescues Tampa Catholic from defeat while a Hillsborough pitcher finally gets rewarded for a big performance.
Male Athlete of the Week: Paulie Russo
The Tampa Catholic Crusaders trailed Berkeley Prep in the final inning of Tuesday's game when the freshman was called upon to pinch hit. He would save the team in dramatic fashion with the first home run of his high school career.
For the season, Russo is batting .625 with 8 RBI. He has crossed the plate himself four times this season.
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“The other kids on the team voted him on the team because they know he can play,” coach Pat Russo said. “He lives for the big moments like that.”
Female Athlete of the Week: Ashley Avary
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The Hillsborough High School junior pitcher has been a force for the Lady Terriers on the mound this year, but her influence on the team had yet to affect the win column.
After a losing effort last Saturday, Avary pitched her third complete game of the season on Tuesday night leading the Terriers to an 8-2 victory over Leto. Her 6.44 ERA is a team best as are her 14 strikeouts.
The victory was only the team's second of the season, but was a game that inspired the players and their coach.
"Ashley is pitching with a lot of confidence right now," coach Kristina Ravenel said. "I think this was a big win for our team because it'll help build some confidence. If we keep this going I think we're going to have a resurgence this year.