RCTC Splits Final Day of Spring Trip with Win Over SUNY Niagara, Loss to John Wood
Rochester Community and Technical College wrapped up its spring trip with a split on the final day, winning an 8 inning thriller 7-6 over SUNY Niagara before dropping a tough 14–2 decision to John Wood Community College. The two games showcased both the challenges and the resilience of the Yellowjackets as they closed out their trip away from home.
In the opener against SUNY Niagara, the Jackets jumped out to an early lead and holding on late for a 7–6 win. RCTC plated three runs in the first inning and added two more in the second, setting the tone offensively. Cason Forbrook delivered a key two‑double performance with three RBIs, while Zoey Clark drove in two runs and reached base three times.
Speed and aggressiveness on the bases played a major role in the win, as RCTC stole six bases, including two by Ella Bergan. Jayda Bednarek added an RBI and scored twice, while Ivette Mendoza chipped in with a run‑scoring hit and two walks. Overall, RCTC totaled 10 hits and drew 10 walks, consistently applying pressure throughout the game.
SUNY Niagara mounted a comeback attempt, scoring in four different innings, including two runs in the seventh and one in the eighth. However, Zoey Clark anchored the Yellowjackets in the circle, pitching all eight innings. She allowed five hits and six runs—only one earned—while striking out seven and working through four walks to secure the complete‑game victory.
In the nightcap against John Wood, RCTC struggled to recover from a decisive second inning that swung the momentum firmly in the Trailblazers' favor. After a scoreless first, John Wood erupted for nine runs in the second inning, capitalizing on defensive miscues and timely hitting. They continued to apply pressure in the third and fourth innings, adding two and three runs respectively to build an insurmountable lead.
Despite allowing 14 runs, RCTC pitcher Alyssa Knudson showed perseverance in the circle, going the distance over five innings and striking out two. Of the 14 runs scored, only three were earned, as RCTC committed eight errors defensively. The defensive struggles proved costly, extending innings and giving John Wood additional scoring opportunities.
Offensively, RCTC was limited to five hits and two runs. Michaela Cauffman provided the biggest spark, tripling and driving in a run, while Ella Bergan and Gigi Lundi each recorded hits, with Lundi going a perfect 2-for-2. RCTC scored twice in the second inning but was unable to mount a sustained comeback, ultimately falling 14–2.
The split allowed RCTC to finish its spring trip on a positive note, demonstrating growth, resilience, and the ability to respond after adversity. The Jackets are next in action March 27 and 28 as they host the MCAC Crossover Tournament in the Dome.
