It’s become as much tradition as it has rivalry. Georgetown Visitation (D.C.) and Potomac Schoolhave met in the Independent Schools League Tournament championship each of the past three years.
The last two years Visitation senior pitcher Katie Sullivan fell short against her best friend. But friendliness did not get in the way this time.
Sullivan struck out just three batters, but she and the Tigers didn’t allow a runner past second base after the first inning as Visitation went on to a 4-1 title win over the Panthers at Flint Hill Middle School.
“I’ve been wanting this since my freshman year, especially because my best friend is [former Potomac School All-Examiner pitcher] Morgan Simpson,” said Sullivan. “We’ve always kind of had a rivalry going – a friendly rivalry. I’ve always wanted this. This is the best feeling.”
“She did a good job. We know her well. She actually went to school at Potomac through eighth grade,” said Potomac coach Brian Parry.
Senior Kate Becker and junior Taylor Cavanagh, batting at the bottom of the order, provided Visitation’s (18-1) offensive spark with consecutive hits in the second inning, Cavanagh lining a double down the right field line that scored Becker to cap a three-run third inning.
Senior shortstop Katie Martore had Potomac (11-3) on top first, scoring on a double and two-base throwing error in the first inning. The Panthers also had runners at second and third in the same inning, but failed to add to its lead.
“I was probably trying for a bigger inning,” said Parry. “We should’ve been satisfied with getting one more run across.”
Visitation senior Cecile Egan scored the game’s final run in the fifth inning after two passed balls.
“It’s been intense,” said Sullivan of the rivalry. “I think some of the most intense games I’ve played ever have been on this field.”
Potomac School pitcher Becca Pinchev struck out six while allowing five hits and walking four.
