Paulding Dominates Hicksville in 10-3 Victory
The Paulding Varsity Lady Panthers put together a complete performance on Thursday, April 17, defeating the Hicksville Aces 10-3 behind powerful hitting, aggressive base-running, and a stellar pitching outing from junior Tia Mendez.
Paulding wasted no time getting on the board, scoring in each of the first three innings to build a 5-0 lead. They added three more runs in the fifth and two in the sixth to seal the win. Senior center fielder Marley Parrett led the offensive charge, going 3-for-3 with a double, an RBI, and two stolen bases. Freshman Civil Pumphrey made a statement with a three-hit, two-RBI performance, including a two-run home run that electrified the home crowd.
Senior shortstop Brooklynn Bakle stayed hot at the plate with two doubles and an RBI, while sophomore Cadence Schwab and junior catcher Mariah Klopfenstein each added multi-hit games. Freshman first baseman Delaney Johanns reached base three times and scored a run, and sophomore Darcy Taylor came off the bench to deliver a clutch two-run single.
In the circle, Mendez was dominant. She pitched a complete game, allowing nine hits and just one earned run while striking out 13. She also helped her cause at the plate with a hit, a walk, and two stolen bases.
Paulding collected 15 hits in the game and did not commit an error defensively. Head coach Mallory Clark praised the team’s cohesion and focus, as every starter contributed either a hit, a run, or a defensive play.
With the win, the Lady Panthers continue to build momentum in the 2025 season, showcasing a deep lineup and confident pitching that will make them a threat in upcoming matchups.
