THATCHER, Ariz. — The Eastern Arizona College Softball Team clinched the Arizona Community College Athletic Conference (ACCAC) Division One Region title on May 13, 2023, and is headed to nationals in Oxford, Alabama from May 23 – 27.
The Gila Monsters defeated the Central Arizona College Vaqueras by a score of 9-0 in the championship game. Eastern Arizona’s Jayleen Tomlinson was named the most valuable player of the regional tournament held at EAC.
“About six weeks ago the team made a decision to win the whole thing,” said Kate McCluskey, EAC head softball coach. “Every bit of enthusiasm comes from them. We are just trying to stay out of their way.”
The Gila Monster softball team completed the season with a 44-17 record. Several players received ACCAC honors, including:
- Jaileen Mancha- Pitcher of the Year, ACCAC First Team, ACCAC All-Region
- Savannah Clausen-ACCAC First Team, ACCAC All-Region
- Cassidy Morrow- ACCAC Second Team, ACCAC All-Region
- Mariah Cunningham- ACCAC Second Team, ACCAC All-Region
- Jaylene Tomlinson-ACCAC Second Team
“I’d like to thank our team’s parents,” said McCluskey. “They helped us throughout the season and cooked and fed the team during the regional tournament. Their support has been a determining factor in our success.”