Amanda Schweitzer could not have entered the prestigious 100-hit club in more dramatic fashion.
In one of the most important games of her senior season, Schweitzer stroked a long double in the third inning to collect her 100th hit and then blasted a two-run homer in the seventh inning that proved to be the winning runs in a key 5-3 victory over the University of Bridgeport. She also sparkled defensively at catcher. The victory helped keep STAC in the hunt for their first East Coast Conference championship in program history.
Schweitzer became the 29th player in the 41-year history of the program to accumulate 100 career hits. She joins teammate Missy Sadler, who joined the distinguished fraternity earlier this month.
“Amanda has been instrumental in turning around our program,” said STAC Head Coach Kristen Sullivan. “In many ways, she’s been the pillar of the program since her freshmen year. She’s played exceptionally well in the field and has provided important leadership off the field.”
Schweitzer, a senior tri-captain, is enjoying the best season of her four-year career at STAC. As the team’s defensive anchor at catcher, she’s helped STAC compile a 21-9 record that included an exciting 10-game win streak. Currently, she leads the team with a .393 batting average and an on-base percentage of .485. She’s tied for the team lead in hits with Sadler.
Her success is a special source of pride for Sullivan, who has coached Schweitzer since she was 12 years old and personally recruited her to join the Spartans.
“Watching Amanda excel on the college level has been very special to me and she’s given me some of the most enjoyable moments of my coaching career,” said Sullivan. “Amanda is very committed to our program and has worked extremely hard to develop into one of the ECC’s best players.”
Versatility on defense and offense have been Schweitzer’s trademarks during her STAC career. Defensively, she’s played first base, third base, outfield and has been rock-solid this season at catcher. At the plate, she has hit for high average, power and has delivered at clutch times.
“Amanda’s exceptional play this season has played a major role in winning 20 games and clinching a playoff berth,” said Sullivan. “She is respected by her teammates and her opponents for her great desire and love for the game. She’s left a permanent mark on our program and will be very hard to replace in the coming seasons.”