Collegiate Times

Head coach Scot Thomas picked up his 500th career win after his Hokies softball team defeated Boston College in the last game of the series, which Virginia Tech swept three games to none.

Thomas, who has been here for over a decade, made sure to pass along the congratulations.

"It's meaningful," Thomas said.  "I think the biggest thing is that it's a program 500, too.  There are a lot of alumni and current players that have made an impact and can have pride in those wins.  I think the opportunity to be here for 14 years has been very special to me."

The Hokies got to Thomas' milestone victory in dominating fashion.  In each of the three games against the Eagles, Tech posted double digit hits.

They also plated 32 runs in the series.  Senior outfielder Jenna Rhodes scored eight of those and went an impressive 10-for-12-good for an .833 batting average.

"I went up to every at-bat trying to do my job and get the ball in play and get on base," Rhodes said.

"She's been phenomenal all year," Thomas said.  "When you're a slapper like she is, it's about taking what the defense gives you, and she did a great job of that this weekend."

Sophomore pitcher Kenzie Roark picked up all three wins, throwing over 200 pitches in the process.

"My changeup was working really well for me," Roark said.  "That's definitely my go-to pitch."

"She buckled down and threw well," Thomas said. "She's still throwing a few too many balls but I was pleased with how she did."

The first game of the series was a long, drawn-out 9-5 win, due to a weather delay. The Hokies still pounded out 14 hits and senior Charisse Mariconda stole three bases in the slop at Tech Softball Park.

Mariconda became the fifth player in school history to have 200 hits, 100 runs-batted-in and score 100 runs.

The first game of a doubleheader on Saturday saw the Hokies cruise, 14-6.  Senior Erin Ota led the team by going 4-for-4 with seven RBIs, three doubles and two runs scored. 

The Hokies offense collectively was running on all cylinders.

"I was really pleased with how we hit the ball as a team," Thomas said.  "We hit .482 (over the series).  That's as big a weekend hitting as we've had in a long time.  For it to be in the ACC was huge."

The third game was a pitching domination by Roark, who went six innings, allowing one run on our hits, in a 9-1 victory.

"It was a team win all around," said Roark. "The defense worked for me and everyone was great."

Senior Beth Walker gave Roark some run support with a three-run home run to straight away center in the first inning.

"We were smart and selective," said Thomas.  "We didn't chase anything and went up there and swung the bats hard."

The Hokes move to 7-5 in the ACC and will travel up to Liberty on Wednesday. First pitch is at 2 p.m. in Lynchburg.

"They (Liberty) are always scrappy," Thomas said, "and it's a big game for them.  We have to go out there and take those games.  We need to continue to build on our regional wins as we make a case for ourselves as we pass .500 (winning percentage) heading into postseason play."