Blair’s varsity softball team capped a memorable 2019 season by winning the Mid-Atlantic Prep League (MAPL) and NJISAA prep “A” state championships for the second year in a row. The team’s MAPL record was 9-1, and the Lady Bucs claimed the state championship on May 16 by defeating Lawrenceville 3-2 in front of a home crowd in Blairstown.

Blair opened the championship game with great offense, scoring three runs to set the winning tone. Lawrenceville made a final push in the sixth inning, scoring two runs to get back into the game. However, the Lady Bucs held their own to win Blair’s sixth state title since 2009.

Ashton Martini ’20 contributed an outstanding championship-game performance. As the starting catcher, she defended the plate successfully, allowing no balls to get past her the entire game.

“Winning back to back MAPL titles is a huge accomplishment and a testament to the tenacity and drive of this team,” said varsity softball coach Carolyn Conforti-Browse ’79. “Jesse Schable ’19 struck out 13, while Gwen Safin ’20, Gretchen Mayer ’19 and Rachel Ninomiya ’19 had the three crucial RBIs as the Bucs edged the Larries in a tense battle. Sydney Wolfe ’20 scored the winning run. Jesse finishes her career breaking the record for strikeouts and with over 100 hits. Middle infielders Katie Miller ’21 and Jenna Van Valkenburg ’21 locked down our defense, playing flawlessly.”

In addition to its six state championships, Blair softball has earned seven MAPL championships since 2004. Congratulations, Blair softball!