PRINCESS ANNE, Maryland — The University of Maryland Eastern Shore picked up four victories on the opening day of the second Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference competition of the season on Saturday and carries that momentum into Day 2.
The Hawks (51-39, 7-5 MEAC) opened the day on the right foot with a 1,121-978 win against Coppin State. They followed that up with a 980-830 win versus Norfolk State. National Tenpin Coaches Association No 24 Monmouth fell next 864-857 followed by a 991-961 win against No. 14 Delaware State.
"Today was fun," Hawks coach Roger Petrin said. "The girls had a clear picture of what they needed to accomplish to obtain a good scoring pace today (especially in set one). Today, the communication felt simple. How we communicated started in practice earlier this week.
Junior Brooke Roberts (Port Orange, Florida) Had a strong day with a high of 247 during the squad's bye and a 245 against Coppin. Gabriella Ochoa Hubbard (Nogales, Sonora, Mexico) posted a 233 against the Eagles and two more games over 200. Paulina Torres (Ponce, Puerto Rico) opened the day with a 247 and also posted a 201 versus the Spartans. Alejandra Amezcua (Baja California, Mexico) opened with a 226 and had the high game against the Hornets with a 235.
"I had a conversation with Elizabeth Ross (Schenectady, New York) about emphasizing a different point of reference on the lane," Petrin said. "For me as a coach, I have made adjustments to how I speak about transitional moves on the lane and it certainly seems to be making an impact. I certainly value my players' thoughts and without Liz's willingness to have that conversation, we potentially could have missed some moves today.
On Sunday, The Shore will face four more Traditional matches.
"Tomorrow is another 5 matches," Petrin said. "Tonight we will spend relaxing and getting the mind prepared for another great day on the lanes."
