SOFTBALL INKS FOUR NAMES TO 2011-12 NATIONAL LETTER OF INTENT

ROCKVILLE CENTRE, N.Y. (Nov. 21, 2011) – This past week, Head Softball Coach Susan Cassidy-Lyke (Hicksville, N.Y.) of Molloy College announced her National Letter of Intent signees for 2013, and four future Lions have signed contracts to become a member of next season’s squad. They are infielders Milan Botte (Carlsbad, Calif.), Jessica Thomas (Manhasset, N.Y.) and Reina Torlincasi (Kings Park, N.Y.), as well as pitcher Samantha Sauer (Bellmore, N.Y.).

Milan Botte – Catcher/Shortstop – Carlsbad, Calif./Cathedral Catholic High School

Last season, Botte helped the Dons to a 17-13 overall record, and a 6-4 league mark. She registered a batting average of .415, an on-base ratio of .514, and a slugging percentage of .780. Her best individual showing was against La Jolla High School, when she hit 2-for-5 with a double, triple and five RBI in a 25-0 romp.

“Milan’s skills as a catcher, shortstop and first baseman provide us with much depth at all three positions. She also has a very strong and accurate arm,” said Cassidy-Lyke. “I am truly impressed with her passion as well as her enthusiasm for the game. These qualities will be important with the graduation of Carla (Campagna).”

Jessica Thomas – Third Baseman/Shortstop – Manhasset, N.Y./Herricks High School

During her time at Herricks High School, Thomas has been a two-time All-Division selection. “I have been quite satisfied and impressed with her aggressiveness,” Cassidy-Lyke said. “She has the ability to play at third base and up the middle.” Thomas was also the recipient of the Outstanding Achievement Award in 2009.

Reina Torlincasi – First Baseman/Third Baseman – Kings Park, N.Y./Kings Park High School

Last season, Torlincasi checked in a .447 average with six homers and 19 RBI at Kings Park High School. She also ripped 36 doubles and four triples, while recording a .589 slugging and .523 on-base percentage. “Reina’s athleticism is a positive, as we continue to upgrade our talent level,” Cassidy-Lyke stated. “She has good hands and a strong arm. We feel she has a lot of growth left at both positions, and will be a great addition.”

Samantha Sauer – Pitcher – Bellmore, N.Y./Our Lady of Mercy Academy

Last year, Sauer earned All-League recognition, after leading her team to an appearance in the CHSAA Finals against St. Anthony’s High School. “Samantha has a tremendous deal of upside,” Cassidy-Lyke stated. “We believe she can develop into a very dependable pitcher as she matures.”

“I am very excited with these four players, and what they bring to our program athletically, as well as on a personal level,” Cassidy-Lyke described. “Outside of softball, they have all been involved at their respective schools in extracurricular activities, and community service projects. Their athleticism as a group is what we are searching for to continue to upgrade our program.”

Cassidy-Lyke and the Lions kick off their 2012 defense of the East Coast Conference title on March 10 versus Southern Connecticut State University at the National Training Center in Clermont, Fla. A first pitch time has yet to be announced.