By Brian T. Dessart
Malverne, which finished the regular season 12-2 and was crowned Conference B-IV champion, edged Valley Stream North for the final remaining playoff spot. Even though both teams closed the regular season with the same record, the Mules were ahead in the "common opponent" category. (If both teams finish with the same record, the team with the greatest winning percentage against common opponents goes to the playoffs.)
"Malverne is never respected," first-year varsity coach David Sklar said. "But what we did was beyond what was expected."
To make the feeling of accomplishment even that much greater, this was only the second season of competition for Malverne. Previously, the Mules were never given the opportunity to take part in post-season play because they were competing in a developmental league.
"I am so happy," said All-Conference player Rasheda Walcott. "It feels really cool that we made history."
Walcott, who's only a freshman, finished the regular season with a .656 batting average, a .708 on-base percentage and 30 RBI's.
"At first I didn't believe the stats," said Walcott, who had at least one hit in every game. "Mr. Sklar helped me through. He never gave up. He encouraged me and I became determined. I felt I could do it."
Malverne's history-making season was dependent on others besides Walcott, including Jen Gunderson, Liane Musella and Shakiea Stanley. The trio, given All-Division honors, was responsible for delivering the goods that helped lead this young team. Gunderson pitched all 12 Malverne wins, while Stanley spread some magic of her own with 26 RBI's and a .555 batting average. Musella is recognized as one of the best defensive players in the county.
"There is no question Liane is one of the best defensive players in the county," said Sklar of Musella, who only had one defensive error this season. "She lives for softball."
On May 15, Malverne met Clarke -- considered by many to be the best team in the county -- in the first round of the playoffs. Even though the Mules were defeated 21-0, they have set a standard for future teams to follow.
"Every great thing needs a steppingstone," said Musella. "This year, making the playoffs was a steppingstone for the future."
