PHILADELPHIA - The La Salle softball squad took a break from the season grind last Friday to host the annual Home Run Derby at West Campus Field.

The home run derby was open to all friends, family, fans and La Salle students, faculty and staff. By pledging a donation to the program, participants got to swing for the fences 10 times.

Men's basketball player Matt Sheehan was the winner for both the number of home runs and the longest home run hit. Sheehan blasted out 13 shots, including a 331-footer. Assistant AD Kevin Bonner was second with nine home runs and men's soccer assistant Brian Blesi pounded out six homers and had the second longest shot of 265 feet.

The players also got their chance to swing. They took pledges based on their longest hit ball. Kati Cooper was the winner with four home runs, and Kristin Travers added three including the farthest hit ball of 237 feet.

The Explorers enjoyed a warm sunny day of team camaraderie and fan support while raising money to benefit the program's needs.