The AZ Killer Bees-Elvis excelled in nearly every facet of the game en route to the TCS Summer Kick Off 16uA championship.

The Bees received excellent pitching performances from Amy Tarnowski and Andrea Wellens throughout the weekend. Following a comeback effort by the AZ Jaguars in the title game, Wellens struck out the final batter with the tying run in scoring position.

Both players also contributed offensively, collecting two RBI each in a five-run sixth inning.

Lexi Pearson also ignited the Bees' offense. The slapper made solid contact throughout the weekend and got on base for the Bees’ more powerful hitters.

Courtney Hiruko and Eliza Benitez provided some pop for the team after Pearson reached base. Both batters peppered the outfield with hits, and Benitez collected a handful of doubles over the weekend.

The Killer Bees defeated the Jaguars 6-5 in six innings on Sunday night to claim the championship.

ATH for Monday:

The 18U AZ Hotshots Gold-Davis said hello to a new team and a new summer of softball with an impressive TCS Summer Kick Off tournament championship.

In their first tournament following the end of the high school softball season, the Hotshots took home the 18U Open title thanks to stellar pitching and a lively offense. Pitcher Ashley Quigley shined for the Hotshots, allowing only one run in a complete game victory over the AZ Killer Bees in the championship game Sunday.

The team focused on meshing as a team during the tournament and showed steady progress from Saturday to Sunday, said head coach Gary Davis.

The Hotshots can look forward to continued success thanks to a highly skilled roster featuring several players coming off of recent state championship victories with their high schools.

Additionally, the Hotshots’ pitching staff features three co-aces who have already signed letters of intent to play college ball. Quigley (Lehigh University), Kaity Stitzman (Villanova University) and Jessica Belsterling (University of Colorado at Colorado Springs) will all provide stability from the circle for the Hotshots.

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