Gameday Vibe Check: Rams vs Huskies

Richard Pacella

FARMINGDALE NY-It was a cold and slightly windy day on SUNY Farmingdale's campus on April 6th, a day when the Women's softball team, the Rams, faced off against the Western Connecticut Huskies. As per our game day routine, a vibe check was necessary, so I set out to get a feel for exactly how the players and fans were feeling. 

Sara Debagis, outfielder for the Huskies, as well as Wally, beloved Western Connecticut mascot, agreed to let me ask them a few questions about the tensions and vibes before the game. Sara had this to say: “ Vibes are good, we're excited to be here, we are excited to play.” Wally refused to speak, but Sara assured me Wally held the same ideas. 

My next interviewee was Greg Friedman, a pitcher on the men's team. Greg had just finished practice and was coming over to support some of his friends on the women's team. When I asked him about the vibes going into the women's game, Greg said, “It’s a little cold out here, but it's always a good day to get a Rams win.” 

My next stop was to the Farmingdale dugout, where I convinced the coach to let me grab three players for my interview. Jana, Angie, and Bailey are all infielders for the Rams softball team, and they all had this to say “We’re ready to go.” “Tensions are high.” “Time to win.” 

The pregame pageantry ended with both mascots taking to the mound to see who could throw the better pitch. The winner of the contest would get to choose who would bat first. Wally’s pitch, low and inside, was no match for

fast ball laid right in the center of the plate. The Rams deferred, letting the Huskies bat first, and with that, the game was underway. 

 The first inning saw both teams get their first runs, with the Huskies grabbing two to the Rams' one. By the third inning, the Huskies managed to get their run total up to five thanks to some solid hitting and infield errors by the Rams. By the third inning, the Huskies managed a two-run lead with only two more innings left to play. The Rams licked their wounds, got back to the plate and put up three runs in the fifth courtesy of outfielder Isabelle to make the six-five Rams. 

A thrilling contest with all the ups and downs we’ve come to love and cherish as sports fans. Ram pride was all about the stands and dugouts, as smiles and hugs were shared between players, families, and fans. Congratulations to the Rams softball team on a dramatic win in stylish fashion.