Virginia softball is on a roll. After sweeping a doubleheader against Campbell University on Tuesday, 9-0 and 5-4, the Cavaliers (30-8) have won 13 straight games and 15 out of their last 16.
Cavalier coach Cheryl Sprangel attributes much of the team's success to its ability to hit the ball. In their winning streak, the Cavaliers have outscored their opponents, 85-25.
Senior leadoff hitter and right fielder Meaghan Young is one of the stars of Virginia's offense.
"Meg's been great," Sprangel said. "She's led off for us each year. She gets up there and attacks and sets the tempo by hitting the ball hard. It's such a constant that we even joke about just having the lineup cards printed with her name first."
"If I can hit the ball hard and get on base, it gets us going and makes the whole team confident," said Young, who is the current ACC Player of the Week.
Hard hitting not only gets the Cavaliers going, but also deflates the other team.
"The opposing pitcher will spend 20 minutes warming up," Sprangel said. "Then Meg steps in there, hits it hard somewhere and its just demoralizing for them."
Young currently posts a .354 batting average and is Virginia's all time leader in hits and doubles. In six games at last weekend's Who's Hoo Tournament, she went 11-for-22 at the plate, including three doubles and a home run. She tallied a total of five RBI's six runs and two stolen bases.
Young's role as a leader for Virginia is more than just her spot in the batting order. As the lone senior on the 2001 Cavalier team, she takes on several responsibilities.
"I'm always very vocal in the dugout," Young said. "Even though I'm in the outfield I try and be just as observant and loud as an infielder. I'm always saying something to try to keep everyone hyped up and ready to go."
"She's dependable and always gives her all," Sprangel said. "Meg's great defensively and doesn't hesitate to dive for the ball when she has to."
Young said she also tries to lead by example.
"I am always enthusiastic and I give my all regardless of the circumstances."
This weekend the Cavaliers hope to extend their success on the road. The team travels to face East Carolina for a Friday doubleheader before trying to silence the Tar Heels in a Saturday afternoon matchup against ACC rival North Carolina.
"We definitely have to keep the offense to a minimum," Young explained.
Sprangel agreed that Carolina's offense will be a threat.
"They have some powerful bats," Sprangel said. "We have to be very smart with their hitters."
With Young leading the way, the Cavaliers have a good chance at keeping the good times rolling.
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