The Fugitives 14U fast-pitch team finished their 2009 season with a strong showing, placing second at the USSSA Fall State Championships in Federal Way this past weekend.

Coaches attributed the showing to “strong pitching, consistent defense, and timely hitting,” which helped the Fugitives post a 2-1 record after play was completed on Saturday.

Facing elimination in every game, the team came out swinging Sunday morning, posting a 6-1 victory to keep the weekend alive.

Immediately after that win the girls took the field for game two. In a tie at the end of regulation, they forced the game into international tie-breaking rules. The Fugitives did not allow a run in the top half of the inning. A lead-off single in their home half plated the winning run.

From there the Fugitives posted a 4-0 victory to earn a spot in the championship game versus the Washington Speed.

The leadoff batter for the Speed launched a shot to the gap for a home run in the first inning and until sixth inning that was the only run scored until the Fugitives tied it up 1-1.

The Speed came out swinging in their half of the sixth to up three runs and take a 4-1 lead which ended up the final score.

The Fugitive fast-pitch program is part of the Maple Valley Softball Association – a local non-profit group dedicated to advancing the fast-pitch sport in the community.

For information regarding the Fugitives fast-pitch program, visit www.mvsafastpitch.com or send e-mail mvfastpitch@live.com.

Fall/winter/spring workouts are open to all that want to improve their skills. Roster positions are still open for the 2010 season.