March 29, 2010

PORTSMOUTH, Ohio - Shawnee State (Ohio) head softball coach Ralph Cole won his 500th career victory at the NAIA level as the Bears picked up three road victories over the weekend. The Bears improve to 10-13, 3-0 American Mideast Conference.

Cole began his head coaching career at Shawnee State in 1992, after spending two years as an assistant to Robin Hagen-Smith. In 19 seasons, Cole has coached the Bears to a 500-242 record, nine conference championships and nine NAIA National Championship appearances, including a runner-up finish in 1997. He was named conference Coach of the Year in 1996.

"This would not have been possible without the many special players I've had the privilege of coaching, including my daughter Amy and granddaughter Tammie Jo," Cole said. "I would like to acknowledge all the help that I've had over the years that has allowed me to continue coaching, while balancing both of my careers."

Shawnee State swept a doubleheader at Carlow (Pa.) to open up conference play and give Coach Cole his 499th victory on Saturday. The Bears won the opener 5-2. Senior Katie Daniel got the win for the Bears as she pitched a complete game, giving up two unearned runs on seven hits and one walk. She also struck out a career-high nine batters. Sophomore Brooke Baker was 3-for-4 in the game, with a run scored and freshman Sam Attinger went 2-for-4 at the plate with a run scored.

The Bears won the night cap 4-3. Freshman Ali Thompson was tagged with the win as she pitched a complete game allowing three runs on seve hits, with one walk and striking out two. Freshman Ericka Leighty was 3-for-4 at the plate, with two runs scored and a RBI. Freshman Abbey Barrett had two hits in the game, with two RBIs and a run scored.

Ralph Cole picked up his 500th victory as the Bears defeated Point Park (Pa.) 5-1 on a soggy Sunday. Daniel continued her stellar weekend as she pitched a complete game allowing one run on three hits and fanning nine. Baker was 2-for-3 in the game, including a two-run home run in the first inning to set the tone for the Bears. Leighty added a double and scored two runs for the Bears and freshman Jazel DeAutremont added two runs in the game.

Shawnee State will travel to Cedarville (Ohio) Tuesday for a conference doubleheader beginning at 3 p.m.