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NFCA Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. - After going 3-0 in three complete-game efforts and not allowing a single earned run during 20 innings of work amidst an 8-0 week for the Williams College softball team, junior
Katie Blanch earned Division III Wilson/National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) Pitcher of the Week honors Tuesday afternoon for the first time in her collegiate career.
During a 9-0 triumph in Game 2 at Hamilton Saturday afternoon in Clinton, New York, Blanch earned the six-inning victory, giving up no runs, no walks and only two hits. Blanch struck out 10 batters during the 2-1 seven-inning victory in the second game at Trinity Friday afternoon in Hartford, Connecticut, as she allowed three hits, one walk and no earned runs. Blanch started the week with a four-hit shutout, including six strikeouts, in a 5-0 seven-inning win at La Verne Monday during the second game of a doubleheader.
In addition to her outstanding work in the circle, Blanch recorded a perfect 1.000 fielding percentage this past week, with 16 putouts, nine assists and no errors. She went 2-of-4 batting, with one double and one RBI, in Game 2 against La Verne. Blanch recorded a two-hit effort in a 9-7, 10-inning win during Game 1 at Hamilton.
The Rye, New York, native was recognized as the conference's Rookie of the Year and a member of the All-NESCAC First Team in 2024. Furthermore, she was named a finalist for the 2024 Tucci/NFCA Division III Freshman of the Year award, to go along with earning a spot on the NFCA All-Region I First Team. During the 2025 season, Blanch was named to the NFCA All-Region I Second Team and garnered NESCAC All-Conference Second Team laurels.
The Ephs compete in their home-opening doubleheader Saturday, with game times set for noon and 2 p.m. against Bates on Cole Field.
