Softball: Broad Run Plays "Small Ball" to Advance to State Semifinals

By Jason S. (stands for STATES!) Rufner 
Special to Viva Loudoun via Loudoun Times-Mirror

Ashburn (June 6, 2012) - A clutch two-out hit put Broad Run High School in front, and a spectacular double play kept them there as the Spartans won their Virginia AAA state softball quarterfinal game 2-1 against Hickory June 5 in Ashburn.

Madison Small, the Spartans' sole starting freshman, delivered an RBI double for the go-ahead run in the sixth. In the seventh, third baseman Amanda Pugh protected the narrow margin, diving to snag a bunt and whirling to nip a Hickory runner retreating to second.

One out later, the Spartans were winners in their first ever Group AAA state tournament contest. Broad Run was a perennial AA power until moving up to AAA this school year.