Junior catcher Jennifer Groat has been abusing pitchers for Plattsburgh State’s softball team.
Groat entered Cortland Monday with a 38-game hitting streak. While the Cardinals won the first game of the doubleheader 5-1, Groat couldn’t extend the streak any further, leaving the junior with the second-longest hitting streak in NCAA Division III softball, behind Heather Bortz’s record of 44.
The Moravian College alumna set the record during the 2003 and 2004 seasos while propelling the Greyhounds to a 40-6 record and the program’s first trip to the NCAA Division III World Series.
“I’m honored that I was able to go on a streak like that,” Groat said. “I’m just disappointed it’s over, but I know no matter what, I have to keep doing what I can for the team.”
Groat’s disappointment was contrasted by Conroy’s pride in her.
“It’s a huge accomplishment. We’re proud of her,” Stephanie Conroy, head coach said. “She’s someone who expects greatness from herself, and I expect greatness from her as her coach.”
Groat is currently batting a .505 average, good for second in the SUNYAC conference, and also leads the conference with an impressive .733 slugging percentage.
The junior catcher also leads the team in runs, hits, doubles, on-base percentage and fewest strikeouts.
“She works hard every day making sure the team is successful,” Jackie Decker, senior third baseman said.
Although Groat said she won’t be actively pursuing the hitting streak, Wednesday’s Potsdam doubleheader marked the beginning of a new streak for the catcher with a hit in each game.
Email Fernando Alba at sports@cardinalpointsonline.com
