SPRINGFIELD, Mass., April 3, 2006 -- Stephanie Blackman of Springfield College earlier today was named the New England Women’s and Men’s Athletic Conference (NEWMAC) Softball Co-Pitcher of the Week.

She shares the honor with Babson College senior Meghan Gaskell.

A sophomore righthander from Stamford, Conn., Blackman finished the week 3-2 overall with a 1.88 ERA. In 37 and 1/3 innings, she gave up 10 earned runs, striking out 16 and walking eight.

But it was in the latter stages of the week where Stephanie really shined. In conference play alone, she was 3-0 with a 1.45 ERA. Included were victories over Coast Guard on Friday, Wheaton on Saturday, and Wheaton again on Sunday. In 24 and 1/3 innings of conference competition, she allowed just five earned runs, while striking out eight and walking six.

On the season, Blackman is now 6-4 with a 2.06 ERA. She is a big reason why Springfield has won five of its last six games. Overall, the Pride is now 11-10 and 4-2 in the NEWMAC, tied for second place at the moment.

published: 04/03/2006