The Girls 11/12 Year Old New Hyde Park softball team opened the Little League Section 5 tournament with an impressive 20-2 victory over Downtown LL. 

NHP opened the game with 11 first inning runs. That’s all winning pitcher Melissa Ward needed. 

Ward pitched a complete game one hitter, striking out eight in four innings. Ward had a terrific day at the plate as well going 4 for 4 with two doubles. 

Kayla Fitzpatrick led off the first inning with a sharp single to left. Jenny Hickey then executed a perfect bunt and run moving Fitzpatrick to third while Hickey kept running to second to set the stage for Wards first two-run double to put NHP up for good. 

Ann Grimshaw singled and scored three runs on the day. Hannah Arkin had a big day at the plate with two hits and two runs. 

Nicole Kuzler walked and scored a run. Maggie Donnelly and Sophia Jacoby each had a hit and a run scored in the win. 

Emma Nidermaier added a hit and two runs. 

NHP moves to round two of the section tournament. 

They play Tuesday July 3rd in Rockville Centre with the winner moving to the LL Section 5 Championship game.