Cavaliers Claim Victory, Exit NCAA Regionals After Thrilling Doubleheader
COLUMBIA, SC – The No. 25 Virginia Cavaliers wrapped up their season on Saturday, May 17, in a dramatic NCAA Regional doubleheader, showcasing their strength and resilience. Starting off strong, Virginia (38-19) dominated Elon (33-21) with a commanding 12-0 victory in the first game, but fell narrowly to North Florida (47-14) in a gripping elimination match, ending their championship run.
In the opener against Elon, the Cavaliers took an early lead thanks to junior shortstop Jade Hylton’s leadoff home run. The team broke the game wide open in the fifth inning, scoring five runs and extending their advantage to 6-0. Key contributions included Kassidy Hudson’s and Kelly Ayer’s hits, alongside Macee Eaton’s double that drove in two runs. Eaton later added a two-run homer in the seventh inning, helping her team secure a decisive win. Pitcher Eden Bigham earned the win, allowing just three hits across five innings.
The second game proved to be a nail-biter. Virginia initially took a 1-0 lead when Bella Cabral brought Hylton home. However, North Florida fought back, tying the game with a late rally. After leading 5-1, Virginia found itself under pressure as North Florida scored five runs, including a dramatic two-out single in the seventh that sealed the game.
Despite the defeat, Hylton made history by setting a new Virginia single-season record for runs scored (61) and moving her career total to 43 home runs. Macee Eaton also made a significant impact, finishing the season with 63 RBIs. The Cavaliers have now made two consecutive NCAA Regional appearances, concluding an impressive season filled with competitive spirit.
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