Riverdale, NY (August 11, 2004)- Manhattan head softball coach Jennifer Fisher announced recently her signees for the 2005 Jasper softball season. The two players signed by Fisher to begin play in the fall are Jaclyn Churilla (Nesconset, NY/Smithtown) and Gail Fitzsimmons (Piedmont, CA/Piedmont).
Churilla, a shortstop, was named to the All-County team following both her junior and senior seasons, and was an All-American as a junior. A three-year varsity starter, she received All-Division and All-Tournament recognition as a sophomore.
"Jaclyn brings an excellent glove to our infield, and will also help us out offensively," stated Fisher.
Fitzsimmons, a pitcher/outfielder, was a three year varsity starter at Piedmont, compiling an impressive 0.70 ERA over two seasons. This summer, she helped her summer league team qualify for the Western Nationals with three wins in consecutive games. She has hurled three no-hitters over the course of her high school career.
"Gail will add depth to our pitching staff," commented Fisher. "Her pitching style produces a lot of groundouts, which will play to our strengths."
The Lady Jaspers completed their season with a 16-33 overall record, and a 9-7 MAAC slate, advancing to the MAAC Championships for the first time since 1999. The nine MAAC wins were the most since the 1994 season and the team's first winning conference record since 1995.
