CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Queens University of Charlotte softball team closed out its regular season in unforgettable fashion on Saturday afternoon, overpowering Jacksonville 13–2 in five innings at The Stick. The victory capped a festive and emotional Senior Day, as the Royals honored seven graduating players.

Before the game, the team paid tribute to Jordan Dunn, Emma Frye, Abby Craver, Makala Strickland, Jordyn Thompson, Kenzie Forrester, and Kaylee DeJesus, celebrating their lasting impact on the program. 

Once the game got underway, the Royals wasted no time asserting dominance. Queens put together an offensive onslaught that saw the team plate 13 runs in just five innings, forcing a run-rule finish. The Royals plated 10 runs in the first inning alone, marking the most amount of runs scored in a single inning in Division I program history, and the most since plating seven against Belmont Abbey (Division II) in February of 2015.

Leading the charge was Lindsey DeRoeck, who delivered a massive performance at the plate, going two-for-two with five RBI, including a home run. DeRoeck's bat ignited multiple scoring rallies and gave Queens a comfortable cushion early.

Olivia Thornton added to the damage, finishing two-for-three with two RBI and a run scored. Lauren Byrd also contributed with a hit and two RBI, helping Queens capitalize on nearly every scoring opportunity.

Senior Kaylee DeJesus made the most of her final home appearance, going one-for-three with two RBI and a run scored. Fellow senior Abby Craver also had a strong showing, scoring three runs, driving in one, and contributing in the circle to limit Jacksonville's offense. Emma Frye, another honored senior, collected a hit and scored once, while Makala Strickland crossed the plate three times as a key base runner (while also getting hit-by-pitched three separate times).

On the defensive side, Queens remained sharp, holding the Dolphins to just two runs behind disciplined pitching and a clean fielding effort. Jordan Dunn was tagged with the victory in the circle. 

UP NEXT
Next, the Royals will head to Alabama to take part in the 2025 ASUN Conference Championship beginning on Tuesday, May 6.

SOCIAL MEDIA
Be sure to follow the Royals softball team on Instagram and Twitter/X to stay up to date on all the latest news surrounding the team. Fans are also encouraged to follow Queens Athletics to stay updated on all the Royals sports teams in action by searching @QueensAthletics on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.