The River Sweeps at Daytona State

DAYTONA BEACH, FL- J'dah Girigorie delivered a stellar performance on the mound, leading Indian River to a 5-1 victory over Daytona State College on Saturday, March 8. With an impressive 11 strikeouts, Girigorie showcased her dominance, allowing just three hits and one run over seven innings while walking only one batter. Her ability to control the game kept the Daytona hitters off balance and set the tone for the win.

The turning point came in the top of the sixth inning when the Pioneers took charge. Presley Smith's fielder's choice allowed the first run to score, igniting a rally. Jaci Alvey then stepped up, tripling to bring in two more runs, followed by Kassidy Pontbriant, who doubled to add another run to the scoreboard. Alvey's performance was pivotal, as she led the team with two RBIs and finished the game 1-for-2.

Offensively, the team was well-rounded, with Sarah Phipps, Pontbriant, Braylee Shields, Hezzy Seabrook, Alvey, and Smith all contributing with hits. Seabrook was particularly aggressive on the base paths, stealing two bases as part of a total of five stolen bases for the game. The River's ability to run wild on the bases added pressure on the Daytona defense and helped secure the victory.

Indian River staged an impressive comeback to defeat Daytona State College 5-4 in the second game of the day. Despite trailing by as many as four runs, the team demonstrated resilience and determination, ultimately securing the win in a thrilling finish.

The game took a pivotal turn in the top of the seventh inning when The River found themselves down 4-3. Thaima Maximiliana drew a crucial walk, allowing one run to score. The momentum shifted as Kassidy Pontbriant then doubled to center field, bringing in two additional runs and giving Indian River the lead for the first time in the game.

J'dah Girigorie earned the victory for the Pioneers, showcasing her skills on the mound by allowing only three hits and no runs over two and two-thirds innings, with no walks or strikeouts. Pontbriant also contributed significantly, pitching three and one-third innings in relief, giving up just one hit and one run while striking out three.

Offensively, the team was on fire, racking up 13 hits in total. Pontbriant led the charge with two RBIs and a 2-for-4 performance, while Sarah Phipps, Anaise Piar, Moesha de Paula, Jaci Alvey, and Presley Smith all added two hits each. The victories not only showcased The River's offensive depth but also the team's ability to fight and rally when it matters most.

Looking ahead, the Pioneers have a week off between games but will play next at home vs. Seminole State (1 p.m. and 3 p.m.) on March 15.

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