Bill Iezzi: Camden Catholic Softball Coach Tops

Mav Hering is a motivator.

The Camden Catholic softball coach has been at the helm two years and she has guided the Irish to their second consecutive Olympic Conference National Division title.

One big reason for their success is pitcher Laura Messina. The junior struck out 15 batters Tuesday in shutting out Bishop Eustace, 2-0, to win the crown.

Also, the defense, which has had issues lately, didn't commit one error against Eustace. If it can continue to play flawlessly, the Irish, seeded fourth in the Non-Public South A tournament, are a good bet to beat Red Bank Catholic, the fifth seed, in a quarterfinal round on May 25.

Hering has stressed the importance of playing good defense, especially during the playoffs.