BETHLEHEM, Pa. - Northampton Softball opened the Rick Wilmott era on Saturday, earning a split vs. Middlesex College for the first victory for the program since April 23, 2017. 

Wilmott, who was hired in May 2019, didn't get the opportunity to coach in 2020 due to COVID-19 cancelling his season, so the opening victory over Middlesex was extra gratifying.  "I'm so happy for the players and my staff," remarked Wilmott, "It has been a long two years, so to get to this point after all the challenges we have faced, makes today even more special."

GAME ONE - Won 3-2
Hailey Druckenmiller (Orefield, PA/Parkland ) earned the victory in game one, throwing a complete game and striking out 5.  Druckenmiller helped her own cause at the plate was a 2 for 3 performance, while Sophia Iovino (Bethlehem, PA/Bethlehem Catholic) also added 2 hits for the Spartans. 

GAME TWO - Lost 9-6
Leading 6-5 entering the top of the 7th, the Spartans saw Middlesex push 4 runs across the plate to take a 9-6 lead and then hold on in the bottom of the 7th to earn the win. 

Emily Michael (Easton/Easton ), who took the loss in game two, finished 2 for 3 at the plate with 5 RBI to lead the offense.

The Spartans, 1-1 overall, are now off until Friday April 2nd when they are set to host RCSJ-Gloucester in a doubleheader set to start at 1pm.