North Carolina State University Athletics
Softball Honors Past, Embraces Future at Team Banquet
8/21/2006 12:00:00 AM | Softball
The NC State softball team put its 2006 championship season to rest and ushered in a new year with the program's annual banquet on Sunday, Aug. 20, at the McKimmon Center on the NC State campus. In front of a large crowd of players, staff, family and supporters, head coach Lisa Navas handed out awards from last season, while honoring the departing seniors. The Pack also welcomed five new players, as well as new pitching coach Leigh Ann Ellis. A highlight video offered a snapshot at last year's amazing season, in which the Pack won 50 games, collected both the ACC regular season and tournament championships, and made the NCAA Tournament field in just its third year of existence.
Shaina Ervin won the MVP award by a unanimous vote of her teammates, while Miranda Ervin and Jen Chamberlin accepted Co-Offensive MVP accolades.
"Halfway during the season, Shaina really turned things around and the took a step towards becoming the great player that she is now," said Navas. "Offensively, both Miranda and Jen contributed in different ways. Together, they serve as a great 3-4 combo in the lineup."
Shanna Smith was rewarded for her exceptional fielding efforts with the Golden Glove award for top defensive player, while Megan Dalthorp was tabbed as the Most Improved Player.
"It was hard to choose MVPs, especially on the defense because we were so solid," said Navas. "Shanna plays outstanding defense. She was an anchor for us at shortstop all year. Megan performed when called upon and offered solid performances throughout the year in several key games."
Chamberlin, currently third in ACC history with 36th career home runs, also collected the Weight Room Outstanding Performance award from team trainer Wright Wayne.
Several team members were presented with collectibles from their personal careers, as Dalthorp, Tess Corona, Lisa Nentwig and Ashleigh Davis all received home run balls from their first career home run at-bats. Miranda Ervin gained possession of the ball she launched against Pacific for a game-ending walk off grand slam a year ago.
Emotional at times, Navas bid adieu to seniors Corona, Jess Willems and Caroline Blount, and presented each with their personalized locker room stools.
"We will miss their smiling faces every day in our program," said Navas. "Their contributions go way beyond stats. Jess was a team captain and Tess was a steady defensive player. Caroline took on many different roles and was a very valuable utility player."
The celebration also marked the debut of Ellis as new pitching coach, as well as five new members of the Pack's roster: Kristine Bechtholdt, Claudia Copper, Krystal Hawkins, Lauren Peters and Allison Presnell.
Despite the whirlwind success of the 2006 season, Navas and company remain focused on the upcoming season, which is quickly approaching. The Pack will begin ACC competition in March, marking its fourth season of play.
Stay tuned to GoPack.com for up-to-date news on Wolfpack softball.
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