Rick Patrick
rick@greenepublishing.com
After finishing the month of February with a five-game winning streak, the Manta Ray ladies softball team at Florida State College in Jacksonville (FSCJ) find themselves in somewhat unfamiliar, yet pleasant, territory. For the first time in the program’s history, the Manta Rays are ranked in the Top-20 in the National Junior College Athletic Association Division II rankings. The Manta Rays have cracked the Top-20 and have moved up to number 19 in the national rankings.
"Being part of the first team in FSCJ history to be Ranked is really special for all of us," said Shea Thompson, an MCHS Cowgirl grad who is a red-shirt freshman on the team. "This season has been incredible so far, and I think it's a reflection of how hard everyone on the team works every single day."
During the win streak, the Manta Rays have outscored opponents 41-11.
Thompson has spent time in the pitcher’s circle in 12 games so far this season, including two complete games, with one shutout to her credit. She has pitched a total of 36.2 innings, chalking up 21 strikeouts for the Manta Rays. Thompson’s older sister and fellow Cowgirl, Amber, also played softball for FSCJ.