North Allegheny softball captures Section 3 title

By: HSSN Staff
Thursday, May 3, 2018 | 11:00 PM

North Allegheny junior pitcher Brooke Serbin had a matter-the-fact view on the Tigers wrapping up the WPIAL Section 3-6A section softball title.

There was a sense of accomplishment, but more of an attitude this was another stop along the road.

“That's just one step on our ladder,” Serbin said. “That was our first goal for the season, so it's onto the next.”

Following a 6-1 win over Seneca Valley last week, the Tigers clinched their title with three games remaining in the regular season. North Allegheny, which played its final section contest last Thursday against North Hills, in a game after deadline for this edition, also had contests remaining with Hempfield and Montour.

Coach Rick Meister wanted to make sure North Allegheny (12-6, 8-1) stayed along the same path while the Tigers were playing out the string.

“I don't think you try to change much of anything,” Meister said. “We may give a different layout to the playing time, but you want to have those who brought you here in top form and those who may step in at a moment's notice in top form, too.”

Getting into top form came after North Allegheny lost two games at the Howland (Ohio) Invitational. The Tigers then ripped off four consecutive wins, taking down Erie McDowell (2-1), Butler (8-5), Pine-Richland (6-2) and Seneca Valley.

“It's been different places within the lineup,” Meister said. “Sometimes the top of our order carries us, sometimes it's in the middle. We have certainly gotten contributions from the bottom, as well. It's not a set lineup; it varies from day to day.”

Against the Raiders, Ashley Adams had a big day for North Allegheny. She threw a complete game, striking out five and allowing 11 hits. In addition, she drove in three runs with a double. Chloe Szczepaniak also drove in two runs, while Kristen Chomos contributed a RBI double.

Serbin wants to make sure the Tigers can keep up the magic. North Allegheny hadn't won more than three straight before the previous stretch of games.

With continued improvment, North Allegheny wants to repeat its performance from last season, where it reached the PIAA playoffs.

“We want to keep doing what we're doing, but keep emphasizing it more,” Serbin said. “Every inning just pounding the ball and helping each other out when needed. We play for the team. Family first. Helping each other out.”

Josh Rizzo is a freelance writer.

Tags: North Allegheny