The 2016 spring scholastic sports’ season has begun and here is a look at some local stars who shined during the opening week of action.
BASEBALL
Woodbridge High School pitcher Harry Rutkowski fanned 12 of the 16 batters whom he faced in leading the Barrons to a 9-0 victory over South Amboy. The senior allowed just one hit in the five-inning victory. Rutkowski also came through with two hits and four RBI.
Dan Fackina of Bishop Ahr hit a three-run home run and two-run double for five RBI in the Trojans’ 16-5 victory over New Brunswick.
SOFTBALL
Howell High School sophomore Stephanie Maxson had a career day when the Rebels defeated Manalapan, 19-3. The shortstop slammed three home runs —a season worth of homers for most players— and rung up seven RBI in the victory. She also scored four runs.
Maddie McMahon of Middletown South struck out 16 and tossed a one-hitter when the Eagles defeated Freehold Township, 9-0.
GIRLS’ LACROSSE
Caroline Hvozdovic of South Brunswick collected two goals and seven assists in the Vikings’ 17-6 victory over South Plainfield.
In a 20-17 loss to St. Elizabeth, J.P .Stevens’ Molly Yelencsics scored nine goals and had two assists.
BOYS’ LACROSSE
Monroe High School’s Erik Anderson scored three goals and clicked on four assists in the Falcons’ 14-1 triumph over Colts Neck, but, more importantly, he surpassed 100 career points during the game.
TRACK AND FIELD
At the Rebel Relays in Howell, Jackson Liberty’s Danielle Notarfrancesco won the Division 2 shot put competition with the best throw of the competition, 40-2 3/4.