Spirits were high prior to the game, however, as the Rams celebrated the unveiling of two banners at the varsity field to commemorate the 2024 and 1997 teams, the only two Softball teams in RHS history to win the state sectional title.   

“Getting on the banner for winning the state sectional title last season gave our team something that we can cherish forever,” junior first baseman Hayley Arigo said. “It also boosted our confidence for this game and the season.”   

At the unveiling ceremony, head coach Ashley Kanya gave a speech about her team’s successful 2023-2024 season, overcoming top teams in the state including No. 16 North Hunterdon. The current team also invited players from the 1997 team to help unveil their banner at the field.   

“It was such an incredible experience to be in the presence of the ’97 team and share the same experience as them,” senior co-captain Hannah Bermudez said. “It meant a lot to know that we were both able to accomplish something huge for Randolph and honor it together.”  

After the unveiling, the Rams took the field with determination. The game remained scoreless for nine innings thanks to strong pitching on both sides. 

Randolph held off Columbia, going three extra innings until the top of the tenth, when the Cougars broke through with a seven-run rally.  

“I think our defense did a good job supporting our pitchers, but offensively, we were definitely struggling,” senior co-captain Rebecca Dasti said.  

Randolph pitchers, juniors Kayleigh McClain and Breanna Colburn, combined for seven strikeouts. McClain opened the game, allowing just one hit and no runs over three innings, with Colburn striking out five batters.

Offensively, the Rams gave it their all, but the Columbia defense fought back. Junior Daniella Gizienski helped carry the offense, going two for four when batting. Despite their determination and hard effort, the Rams ultimately fell 7-0 to Columbia.  

The Rams hope to bounce back in their next set of games in the Randolph Challenge on Saturday, April 12.