KEENE, N.H. 5/15/11 –  It's not how they wanted to win the title, but Keene State College is the 2011 ECAC New England Division III softball champs.  The Owls were awarded the crown after the championship game was cancelled due to rain at Owl Athletic Complex on Sunday.  It's the third year in a row KSC has won the regional championship.

                “The kids really wanted to play a game.  They love to play,” said KSC Coach Charlie Beach.  “The fact that we were not selected for the NCAA tournament was disappointing, but the players wanted a chance to play in one more tournament and have some fun.  We had a great day yesterday and unfortunately Mother Nature interfered today.”   

                Earlier on Sunday, second-seed Brandeis University played third seed the University of New England for the right to play the top-seeded Owls in the championship.  That game was called after seven innings with the score tied at 7-all. Brandeis and UNE were named co-tournament runners-up.

                Keene State (29-12-1), the only undefeated team in the tournament, won its two games on Saturday, defeating fifth seed Simmons College (4-3) and Brandeis (11-1, five innings). 

                Keene State junior Courtney Savoie (Stratham, N. H.)  was named the most outstanding player of the tournament.  She was a combined 4-6 in the two games with three RBIs.  “I was excited.  I didn't expect to get the award,” said Savoie.  “I just tried to put the ball in play yesterday.” 

                Normally a pitcher, Savoie was glad she was able to help out with the bat.  “I knew going into the tournament I probably wasn't going to throw a lot, so I happy to help out in other ways.”

                “The ECAC allowed up to keep playing,” Savoie added.  “We just love to play. But we won't be here next year; we'll be at the NCAAs.”