The Iona College softball team wrapped up the 2010 fall season on a winning note by sweeping a double-header against Long Island University on Oct. 9. The Gaels won 9-2 in the first game and won again 4-3 in the second game.

In the first game, Iona ace Sarah Jackson tossed a four hitter, striking out six, while allowing only two runs.

The 2010 MAAC pitcher-of-the-year pitched all seven innings in the win for the Gaels. On offense, Iona was overpowering with the hitting of sophomore Eileen McCann and junior Allyssa James who each had two hits and drove in two runs. Senior Erin Kyle also contributed with two hits while driving in a run.

In the second game, senior Alyssa Maiese allowed three runs and scattered five hits in seven innings, striking out eight batters.

Sophomore Jodi Petersen led the charge on offense going 2-3 with two RBI on the day. The Gaels were able to cash in on Petersen’s hot hitting as she had a game winning walk-off homerun.

Also on offense, Eileen McCann drove in a run, while junior Deanne Algeo scored two runs and also hit a home run.

Head Coach Veronica Rivera summarized the victories by saying, “Our last double header was an exemplification of how hard the team worked this fall.  Everything came together for a solid 14 innings and a great day.  We pitched well, played solid defense and had great at bats.  We were resilient, made adjustments and were mentally tough.  I was very proud of our efforts.”

Iona looks strong heading into the 2011 season after finishing the fall season with a record of 6-2. Last season Iona earned its first ever birth into the NCAA Championship and won the 2010 MAAC Championship.

Head Coach Rivera is very excited for the upcoming season and added, “The fall season was extremely productive. The players and I got to know each other and we learned how to work together. Throughout the course of the fall our fitness, skills and chemistry improved.  We are a hard working group that loves to win.  I wish we could just start our spring games right now.”

The Gaels talent has translated into strong numbers over the course of 2010 year. Eileen McCann who has been a great pick up for Iona, has a .353 batting average with 11 homeruns and 34 RBIs. Her contributions to the offense have made the Gaels lineup difficult to pitch against.

 Sarah Jackson is also looking to reclaim her MAAC pitcher of the year honors, after going 18-7 with an ERA of 1.91.