Matadors take both games on Sophomore Recognition Day

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - Arizona Western College softball honored its sophomore class with Sophomore Recognition Day and made the celebration even more memorable with a dominant doubleheader sweep against Central Arizona.

In game one, the Matadors wasted no time getting on the board. Sophomore Analy Trejo drove a ball to deep center field, reaching second base and bringing in Rauni Gallegos to tie the game early. Later in the inning, Autumn Arriola sent a hit down the left field line, but Central Arizona managed to prevent another run at the plate by tagging out the runner trying to score. Arizona Western continued to apply pressure throughout the game, including a key hit from Larissa Rueda that brought in another run. The Matadors controlled the matchup and secured a 10-1 victory.

The Matadors carried that momentum into game two. Rueda led the way again, hitting a solo home run and finishing the day with nine RBIs across both games. Arriola added to the scoring with a hit that brought in another run, while Alana McDonnell contributed with an effort that helped bring a runner home despite being tagged out on the play. The Matadors completed the sweep with an 8-0 win.

Following the game, sophomore infielders Larissa Rueda and Autumn Arriola shared their thoughts on the day and the team.

“This group is an amazing group of girls," said Rueda. "Everybody works on and off the field. We work together. I mean, to be as best as we can. Everybody pushes each other...This program is awesome. I mean, our fans... I tell everyone, our stands are never empty and that's hard to find anywhere. Coach [Prickett] is an amazing coach as well as the rest of our coaching staff.””

“They're an amazing group of girls," added Arriola. "They work as hard as I've ever seen anybody work. They put everything that they got into the field...This program gave me an opportunity to be great. I always thank Coach P for giving me this opportunity. It's been amazing being here. It's been definitely a highlight of my life being here.”