March 19, 2007 - Brunner / Harris Honored by the MAAC

March 19, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

College Softball
Brunner MAAC Pitcher of the Week
Harris MAAC Rookie of the Week

LAWRENCEVILLE—Sophomore pitcher Lauren Brunner was named Pitcher of the Week and freshman third baseman Candice Harris was named Rookie of the Week by the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference for games played March 12-18.

Brunner (Chino, Calif./Chino), a right-hander, went 2-2 this past week, posting consecutive complete game wins over Butler and Central Connecticut State.  Against Butler, Brunner tossed a four-hitter and vs. CCSU, had a three-hit shutout as Rider won 1-0 in the seventh inning.

“Lauren pitched well,” said head coach Tricia Carroll.  “When she is on, the hitters don’t get solid contact off her and her off speed pitches were working and the defense did the job behind her.”

Harris (Las Vegas, Nev./Coronado) batted .400 for the week with three runs scored and three RBI.  Against Vermont at the Rebel Spring Games, Harris went three for three with a double and two RBI.

“As a freshman, being thrown in at third base, Candice has done well,” said Carroll.  “She adjusted quickly and has given continuity to an important position in our infield.”

Harris is the second Rookie of the Week honoree for the Broncs with Derrin Minunni (Cohoes, N.Y./Shaker) winning the award the first week of the season.

The Broncs (4-11) which won two of their last three games in Florida, open the 2007 home schedule on Saturday, March 24, hosting Villanova as part of the Rider Invitational.  Rider will then host Lafayette and Monmouth as part of the tournament on Sunday, March 25.

-RU-