Columbia High School Softball Standouts Shine in Maplewood Shout Outs

Columbia High School's softball team is celebrating a remarkable season, with senior Claire Shupe leading the charge.

 

On May 6, Shupe achieved her 600th career strikeout and became the program's all-time leader in hits during a 16-4 victory over West Essex.

 

In that game, she went 3-for-3 with three RBIs, while senior Eva Clevenger contributed two doubles and two RBIs.

 

Sophomore Jamie Tarrow added a double and four RBIs, and senior Emma Lerner chipped in with an RBI.

 

Shupe also pitched, striking out eight batters.

 

In the Essex County Tournament quarterfinals, Shupe pitched a one-hitter with six strikeouts and no walks, leading the Cougars to a 10-0 win over Livingston.

 

At the plate, she went 3-for-3 with a double and two RBIs.

 

Clevenger had three hits, including a double and five RBIs.

 

Freshman Olivia Ahlberg and sophomore Casey Maguire each added an RBI.

 

The Cougars, now 16-4, are set to face Caldwell in the ECT semifinals on May 15 at Seton Hall University's Ivy Hill Park.

 

Shupe has amassed 147 career hits.

 

Head coach Cliff Smith anticipated Shupe's record-breaking performance since her freshman year.

 

He noted that her achievements add to a long list of accomplishments during her four-year career.

 

Shupe expressed gratitude for her team's support, stating that her four years at CHS have been the best, and she is honored to always be a Cougar.

 

This season, Shupe and freshman Alison Kelly have shared pitching duties.

 

Shupe boasts a 10-1 record with a 0.45 ERA, allowing 46 hits and eight walks while striking out 108 in 77 innings.

 

She recorded her 600th career strikeout in an 11-1 win over Newark Academy in the ECT first round on May 2.