BY GARY HAWKINS

Staff Writer

When it comes to the Rangeley and Richmond softball teams, the historical differences are striking.

Until this season, Rangeley had never reached a Western Maine Class D championship game while Richmond has played in the last 10. The winner of tonight’s game at St. Joseph’s College in Standish advances to Saturday’s state championship game.

Nearly as rare as Rangeley title appearances are wins against Richmond. But the Lakers notched one this year, splitting a doubleheader and handing the Bobcats their only loss.

“I can’t even remember the last time we beat Richmond,” Rangeley coach Ashley Quimby said. “And I played for Rangeley.”

The loss had an impact on the Bobcats, who have played in the last two state championship games, winning in 2010.

“It reminded us we’re not untouchable,” senior shortstop Danica Hurley said. “We have to play our best.”

Richmond senior Leandra Martin pitched in both games against Rangeley, winning the first 14-0 and losing the second 9-5.

“We actually didn’t hit well and Leandra’s control was off,” Richmond coach Rick Coughlin said of the loss. “I think it was probably good for us. Right after that we beat Sacopee.”

Sacopee Valley, which reached this year’s Western Maine Class C championship game, lost twice this season to Class D Richmond. In 26 years as head coach, Coughlin has yet to alter his small-ball style of play, generally bunting the top and bottom of his lineup into position for a few hitters in the middle of the order.

“Until they stop us, we’re going to keep doing it,” he said.

Hurley, who batted .610 and scored 33 runs this season, is the offensive catalyst. She often bunts when no one is on base but also had three doubles, two triples and two home runs this season. Ciarra Lancaster hit .520 and led the team in RBIs with 21 while Bri Snedeker (.490), Lindsy Hoopingarner (.440) and Alyssa Pearson (.326) have all hit well.

Many of Rangeley’s top players are more familiar to Richmond fans on the basketball floor. Senior Chantel Carrier is the pitcher while freshman catcher Taylor Esty, junior first baseman Jenney Abbott and senior third baseman Ellie Brooks are among the top hitters. After going 5-8 last season, the Lakers have bounced back to 12-3 this year, posting the most wins in school history.

“We just have to play the game we’ve played all year and stick together,” Quimby said.

Gary Hawkins — 621-5638

ghawkins@centralmaine.com

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