Today on twitter, The Chaps announced the return of two sophomores for their 2021 campaign. Outfielder Adrianna Cooney will join Stonie Carrillo, the Chaps second baseman, as they seek to close out "unfinished business" at the Kirk next year.
Carrillo, the team's leadoff hitter the past 2 years, brings back a wealth of knowledge to the infield as well as a team-high batting average and on base percentage. "Stonie's softball IQ is unmatched at the juco level. She can think of scenarios before they happen and guide her teammates through it prior to the play occurring. Having her back in the infield will help guide our large freshmen class on the expectations, plays and 'The Chap Way'."
Returning sophomore Adrianna Cooney was on a hot streak prior to the 2020 season being definitively suspended; "I love this program so much and I feel that I did not get to finish what I started here. In addition to it suiting me academically, this opportunity allows me and Vernon College softball the chance to accomplish our goal, reaching the national tournament."
With the addition of Carrillo and Cooney, the Chaps will bring back all starters up the middle, returning two catchers (Durst, Yellin); a force duo of pitching in Eastburn and Bastow, and transfer freshman Chloe Bryant at shortstop. The Chaps were 24-1 and ranked 17th nationally when the NJCAA cancelled the 2020 campaign. With the return of this core group from the 2020 season, the 2021 season looks to be just as promising.