Hopewell Vikings Dominate Sewickley Academy with 13-0 Victory

Hopewell Vikings Dominate Sewickley Academy with 13-0 Victory

The Hopewell Varsity Vikings delivered a commanding 13-0 win over the Sewickley Academy Varsity Panthers on Friday, thanks to a well-rounded team performance at the plate and strong pitching.

Victoria Mann powered the offense, going 3-for-4 with her seventh home run of the season. Kara Barkovich added an inside-the-park homer and a double, while Kamryn Roche and Alana Covalt each contributed doubles. Allison Ramaley chipped in with a triple. Mann and Barkovich were electric on the basepaths, racking up six total bases apiece. Covalt and Ramaley added three bases each to round out the Vikings’ offensive onslaught.

Barkovich’s second-inning double extended Hopewell’s lead to 7-0, and the Vikings exploded for five more runs in the third. Covalt’s two-run double, a run scored on a dropped third strike, and Mann’s two-run blast to center field sealed the game.

On the mound, Covalt earned the win, tossing three scoreless innings with two strikeouts, allowing just two hits and two walks. Ramaley provided solid relief, striking out four over two shutout innings and giving up only one hit.

Additional Game Highlights:

• Marina Pinchotti made a solid hit to shortstop that resulted in a fielder’s choice, but thanks to smart base-running, she was able to advance on the play.

• Kamryn Roche ripped a double to left field, driving in a run.

• Teagan Scully laid down a well-placed bunt for a single.

• Isabella Katkich singled to left field and advanced to second with alert base-running.

S. Crichton took the loss for Sewickley Academy, allowing five runs on five hits over 1.2 innings.

Hopewell racked up 11 hits on the day, with Barkovich leading the way with four RBIs and a 2-for-3 performance. Covalt also went 2-for-4.

For Sewickley Academy, M. Bigi, C. Andrews, and K. Church each recorded a hit.

Hopewell Honors Senior Softball Players in Emotional Final Home Game

Friday’s game carried special meaning for the Hopewell Varsity Vikings as they celebrated the final home appearance of their four seniors: Kara Barkovich, Isabella Katkich, Victoria Mann, and Tallulah Showrank. Each of these players has made a lasting impact on the Lady Vikings’ program, contributing to its success over the past four years.

This close-knit group has played together since their early days in Hopewell Rec Ball, growing not only as athletes but as friends. Their bond, forged through years of shared victories, challenges, and a deep love for the game, was on full display during the heartfelt senior sendoff.

In a touching tribute, Coach Ronda paused the game four times—once for each senior—to allow an underclassman to take their place on the field. One by one, the seniors took their final steps off Hopewell’s diamond, greeted with cheers, hugs, and tears from teammates, coaches, and fans.

It was a moment of grace and gratitude—one that Kara, Bella, Tori, and Tallulah will carry with them long after graduation. The Hopewell community extends its heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to these seniors and the entire Class of 2025.