April 24, 2008

PHILADELPHIA - Helping Saint Joseph's softball team to a 4-0 mark last week, junior pitcher Dani Gonzales and sophomore catcher Brooke Darreff were recognized for their outstanding individual efforts as they were named ECAC Softball Co-Pitcher of the Week and Co-Player of the Week, respectively, conference officials announced Wednesday. The tandem had previously been named Atlantic 10 Co-Player and Co-Pitcher of the Week on Monday.

On the mound, Gonzales was dominant in four appearances for SJU, posting a 0.00 ERA, while striking out 27 in 23.1 innings of work. Wednesday versus Temple, Gonzales posted a complete-game two hitter, striking out eight in the Hawks' 11-0 win. In the nightcap, the junior was steady in relief. Finishing the final 6.2 innings, Gonzales allowed only two hits to earn her second victory of the week.

Versus La Salle on Sunday, Gonzales continued her pitching prowess, giving up just two hits, while striking out nine Explorers in Saint Joseph's 2-0 victory. In the nightcap, Gonzales was called upon again to pitch in relief. Again, she responded, limiting La Salle to only one hit over the final 4.2 innings in SJU's 5-2 win. It is the first weekly conference honor this season for Gonzales, who shares the award with Massachusetts' Brandice Balschmiter.

Already ranking among the national leaders in batting average, Darreff posted a remarkable .714 batting average, while adding seven RBI and three runs scored. Against Temple Wednesday, the sophomore finished the day 3-for-4 at the plate, including a two-run home run in the Hawks' 11-0 victory in game one. On Sunday, Darreff went 2-for-3 with three walks and two RBI in the Hawks' doubleheader versus La Salle. Darreff, who previously was named A-10 Player of the Week on March 10, shares the conference award with Carly Normandin of Massachusetts.