College Softball
Rider's Pugh Honored by the MAAC for the second time this season

LAWRENCEVILLE--Freshman Sam Pugh (Elkton, Md./Elkton) of the Rider University softball team was named Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Rookie of the Week for all games played April 26-May 2 it was announced by the conference office.

"That's awesome," said head coach Tricia Carroll upon hearing the news.  "You don't notice it but she works hard behind the plate, has handled the pitchers well and is very coachable."

Pugh, a 5-5 catcher, led Rider (14-31-1, 6-8 MAAC) to a 3-3 week, batting .467 (7-for-15) with two runs scored. She handled 34 of 37 chances behind the plate, helping the Broncs keep their playoff hopes alive with MAAC wins over Manhattan and Siena.

For the week, Pugh had an on-base percentage of .529 and a slugging percentage of .467.

"Sam battled for us in some uncomfortable conditions this past weekend," Carroll said about Pugh catching four games in almost 90 degree heat.  "She is blue collar and works hard and I'm happy to see her efforts recognized."

Pugh has played in 41 games this season, making 40 starts at catcher.

This is the second time this season that Pugh has been honored, having been named Rookie of the Week on March 15.  Pugh is Rider's third Rookie of the Week honoree this season with fellow freshman Heather Muscara (North Bellmore, N.Y./Mepham) honored March 29.

The Broncs wrap up the regular season on May 9 with a doubleheader at Fairfield.

Currently in sixth place, Rider needs to sweep the Stags on Sunday and have Fairfield and Niagara lose at least one more game this coming weekend.  Fairfield travels to Manhattan on Saturday.  Niagara travels to Siena and Marist.

-RU-