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2009 Philadelphia Force Season Review

September 1, 2009 - National Pro Fastpitch (NPF)
Philadelphia Force News Release


The 2009 Philadelphia Force season, was a year of growth and development. The Force under the guidance of Head Coach Jeff Franquet battled their way to some very deserving victories, and fell just short on so many different occasions.

Amongst the team's veteran staff were Clare Burnum and Emily Friedman. The duo not only produced at the plate for their team, but they once again laid the path for a new crop of future NPF stars. Burnum closed out the year with a team best .280 average which included 28 hits, 12 runs scored, four doubles, and 11 RBI's. Friedman made the most appearances at the plate in the 37 games she played in. Combined she posted 27 hits, 10 runs scored, three doubles, two homers, and 11 RBI's.

Also in top-5 hitters were Jamie Lobpries and DeDe Justice. With a total of 48 hits between the two respectively, Lobpries and Justice became two of the most feared hitters in the league.

Standout Megan Gibson had herself another decent season for the Force organization. Gibson who played three different roles throughout the season, proved to be one of the team's true leaders. When not at first base Gibson stepped into the circle, where she went on to record a 2.41 ERA. In her 13 appearances, Gibson dealt 34 strikeouts in a 64.0 innings pitched.

Another standout pitcher for the Force this season was Jessica Sallinger. Sallinger went onto lead the team in K's with 36 and finished the year with a 3.84 ERA.

With all the experience the Force carried with them going into the 2009 season, they also welcomed see new faces to the roster. Of the new faces added to the Force organization, no other player had a year quite like that of Division II legend Kristin Erb. One of the greatest pitchers to ever play at the DII level, Erb dominated time-and-time again for Philly.

In her team best 75 1/3 innings pitched, the record setting righty led the bullpen with a 2.14 ERA, compiled a 4-7 record, struck-out 32 batters, threw three complete games, and had one shutout.

Defensively, short-stop Alex Newton also made a lasting impression on team owner Tom Kleinman. Newton, who was another collegiate standout, shared time throughout the year at the shortstop position. Along with veteran Audrey LaFountain, the duo proved to a dynamic defensive unit.

Despite having a tough '09 campaign, the future looks bright for the entire Force organization. With 2010 just a few short months away, fans should be getting ready for another amazing year in Allentown. Season tickets are now on sale for 2010! Special rate: Buy Two Season Tickets and Get ONE FREE through September 15th! Call 215-875-2800 to place your order today!

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The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

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