FSCJ Softball Makes a Splash With Opening Day Sweep of South Georgia
| Final | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | R | H | E |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
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1 | 2 | 11 | 2 | X | 16 | 11 | 0 |
| Final | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | R | H | E |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 4 | 5 |
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1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 5 | X | 7 | 6 | 1 |
JACKSONVILLE, FL – Florida State College at Jacksonville's softball program opened their 2026 season in commanding fashion on Friday, sweeping South Georgia State College in a doubleheader at FSCJ's North Campus.
College President Dr. John Avendano had the ceremonial first pitch honors, throwing a pair of perfect strikes to kick off the festivities and set the tone for a dominant day of Manta Rays softball.
FSCJ wasted no time asserting control in Game 1, overwhelming the Hawks 16-1 behind an explosive offensive attack. The Manta Rays continued their momentum in the nightcap, shutting out South Georgia State 7-0 to complete the sweep.
Sophomore Araya Stearns led the offensive charge, posting a blistering .667 batting average with a home run and a 1.000 slugging percentage across both games. Jordae Nance and Peyton Studt (.500 AVG, 1 HR) provided additional firepower in the middle of the lineup, combining for seven hits and three RBIs on the day.
On the mound, sophomore Alexis Laura was nearly untouchable in her five innings of work, surrendering just two hits while striking out seven batters and posting a 1.40 ERA. Freshman Lily Bennett and redshirt freshman Shea Thompson combined for seven shutout innings in relief, with Bennett recording four strikeouts and Thompson earning the save in Game 2.
"It was a privilege to have Dr. A there to support our student-athletes on Opening Day," said Director of Athletics Jerry Thor. "The team brought tremendous energy to the field, and it's clear that the preparation and hard work they've been putting in since the fall has them fully prepared for the season ahead."
The Manta Rays (2-0) return to action Friday, January 30, hosting Thomas University JV for another doubleheader. First pitches are scheduled for 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. at the FSCJ North Campus softball field.
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