By Don Trello
The Laker/Lutz News Correspondent
Sydney Boynton and Lauren Evans led the way as Academy at the Lakes softball team beat Lecanto Seven Rivers Christian 9-2 April 18 to repeat as the Class 2A-District 4 champions.
“I’ve been there before, but it still has the same thrill,” said second-year Wildcats coach Jerry English, who coached at Land O’ Lakes for 27 years. “The second (district title) is always harder. We kind of sneaked up on people last year.”
The win advances the Wildcats (9-5) to the regional semifinals April 30, where they will host the winner of the quarterfinals contest between Seven Rivers (11-9) and Deltona Trinity Christian at 4 p.m.
Sydney (9-5) dominated from the pitcher’s circle. The senior allowed just one hit, two unearned runs, struck out six and walked two.
“The change-up is my best pitch,” Sydney said. “I like it because it keeps the batters off-balance. Everything is on when it’s on.
“I’m very proud of my team,” she added. “It’s exciting. I hope we can go as far as possible.”
English said Sydney is one of the best pitchers he’s coached.
“She has one of the best change-ups, and it’s the hardest pitch to hit in fast-pitch softball,” English said. “She will throw it on 3-2 and 3-0 (counts). She has a lot of confidence.”
Milena Kacer had an infield single leading off the seventh inning for Seven Rivers’ only hit.
English said he was not aware Sydney was pitching a no-hitter.
“I didn’t know she had a no-hitter going,” English said. “I’d take a 20-hitter if we win the game.”
Evans provided all the offense the Wildcats needed in a five-run first inning. The junior shortstop socked a two-run triple off Tessa Kacer that gave Academy a lead it never lost. She also hit a sacrifice fly, walked twice and scored two runs.
“I just knew I wouldn’t get many pitches to hit after they pitched to me in the first inning,” said Evans, a University of South Florida commit. “I expected us to win, and this definitely feels good. I’m pretty confident and have high hopes of going to state.”
Evans has a team-high .611 batting average and 22 RBI.
“I’ve told people I’d like to see the shortstop who could take her place,” English said. “She knows softball and has the intelligence and skills of an old veteran. … She is spectacular. Her nickname would be ‘Slick’ if she had one. She will do well in college.”
Skyler Boynton, Makenzie Holler and Maria Aumaitre each had base hits for the Wildcats. Skyler and Sydney each scored two runs while Catherine Smith, Janice Cassenello and Aumaitre each crossed home once.
“We have a pretty set lineup,” English said. “We adapt very well and put kids where they feel confident.”
