Lady Bantams Sweep USC Sumter, Celebrate Sophomore Day

In a one-sided affair on April 25, 2025, USC Union delivered a stellar performance against USC Sumter, securing an 11-0 victory in a game that highlighted their offensive prowess and pitching dominance.

The matchup, held in Union, SC, saw USC Union take an early lead and maintain their momentum throughout the game. The home team scored four runs in the first inning, setting the tone for an offensive onslaught that USC Sumter could not counter. By the end of the fifth inning, USC Union had accumulated 11 runs, while USC Sumter remained scoreless.

- **USC Union Offense:** USC Union's lineup was relentless, amassing 12 hits and 9 RBIs. R. Bouchard was a standout performer, going 3-for-3 with a triple and a home run, driving in three runs. A. Benfield also contributed significantly with three hits and three RBIs. The team demonstrated excellent baserunning, with J. Davis stealing three bases.

**Pitching Excellence:**
- **K. Starns of USC Union:** Starns was exceptional on the mound, pitching a complete game shutout over five innings. He allowed just one hit and struck out seven batters, showcasing his dominance and control.

USC Union's comprehensive performance underscored their superiority in this matchup, as they outplayed USC Sumter in every aspect. With strong offensive contributions and a commanding pitching display, USC Union secured a decisive victory. 

The Lady Bantams celebrated thier sophomore players at their last home game!

Abby Benfield is a pitcher from Jonesville, SC. She graduated from Union County High School. A fun fact about Abby is her favorite team is the South Carolina Gamecocks. Her favorite quote is "God is in control." Abby is the daughter of Tommy and Meredith Benfield. After graduating from USC Union, she plans to attend SCC where she will major in sonography.

Bailey Stewart is a shortstop from Newberry, SC. She is a graduate of Mid Carolina High School and played for Carolina Aftershock travel ball team. Some fun facts about Bialey are that she is an aunt of three and that dill pickles are her favorite food. Her favorite quote is "God is withing her, she will not fall – Psalms 46:5". Bailey is the daughter of Tara and Greg Stewart. She will attend Newberry College where she will pursue her Bachelor's in nursing.

Ashlee Hoile is an outfielder from Blythewood, SC. She is a graduate of Blythewood High School. Some fun facts about Ashlee are that she is an Alabama fan and that her favorite TV show is Outer Banks. Her favorite quote is "And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose - Romans 8:28". Ashlee is the daughter of Brian and MaryPaul Hoile. After graduation, she will attend USC Aiken where she will study sports management.

Jayda Davis is a pitcher/outfielder from Monroe, NC. She is a graduated from Parkwood High School and played travel ball with Carolina Elite. A fun fact about Jayda is that she loves Mexican and Japanese food and that her favorite television show is Bridgerton. Jayda's favorite quote is "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me – Philippians 4:13".  Jayda is the daughter of Jamie and Shannon Davis. After graduating from USC Union, she will attend South Piedmont Community College where she will train to become an ultrasound tech.

"I truly love and appreciate ALL this sophomore class has done for the USC Union Softball program. They leave the program as the winningest class with over 55 wins," said Head Coach William Royce. "In addition to wins, this group has exceeded expectations in the classroom earning President's and Dean's Lists, Academic All-American Honors in NJCAA, First and Second Team NFCA Scholar Athletes, and Top 10 GPA in the Nation.  Jayda, Bailey, Ashlee and Abby absolutely embraced the vision and mission of 'Setting The Standard!'.  We are going to miss these Bantams next year."