May 15, 2007

PHILADELPHIA, PA - The Explorer Softball team recently signed two commits to La Salle as newcomers for the 2008 season.  Head Coach Joe DiPietro believes these girls will make an immediate impact on the team, and will hopefully build off of this season's successes. 

Ali Shepherd comes from the Creative and Performing Arts High School of Philadelphia.  While studying instrumental music and playing the cello, Shepherd earned All-Public League for four straight years.  She played for the Blazing Angels Gold 18 U softball team, which competed against top tier teams from all across the country.  She was also an active player on her high school's volleyball team. 

Coach DiPietro had nothing but good things to say regarding Ali as one of the team's newest additions.  "I'm thrilled that Ali chose to come to La Salle and pursue her dream of being a nurse and being a key part of our softball program," says Coach DiPietro.  "I'm confident that Ali will work extremely hard this summer so that she can step right in and be our starting shortstop in the fall."

DJ Guinn comes from Rohnert Park, California where she played softball for Rancho Cotate High School. She also was on the NorCal Assault Gold 18 U team, which consistently plays against the best competition in California.  "I was relieved that DJ decided to come to La Salle and get a great education while helping take the softball program to the next level," said Coach DiPietro.  "With Laura Dezolt graduating we really needed to have a pitcher that can come in here and pick up where Laura left off, and I'm really confident that DJ can do that.  I'm really excited to see what all of our incoming freshmen will bring to the program so we can be one of the top teams in the Atlantic 10."