Deeb coaches her 1,000th game

being positive and trying to bring the team together as one," East Lyme junior catcher and co-captain Sophia Gannoe said of Deeb. "She's seen the positive in things.

"... I think that's what's different about this team, each day is new. We're keeping our enthusiasm up. (This season) has it's new challenges, but every new game is a new opportunity. Each day we walk in with a new mindset."

Bacon took a 2-0 lead Tuesday in the third inning on a pair of bases-loaded walks, then added three runs in the fourth highlighted by a two-run double ripped to left field by freshman catcher Gracie Gladding. Bacon pitcher Avianna Ibrahim allowed East Lyme just three hits.

Robinson, East Lyme's freshman pitcher, struck out 13 over six innings, but walked seven and hit a batter, while the Vikings, juggling injuries and absences from the lineup, made five errors behind her.

Deeb said overall East Lyme needs repetition of the little things. Laying down a bunt. Knowing what to do in every situation defensively. Understanding the game better. She believes all that will happen.

"Sitting back and just not coaching (last year), I still did a lot of research," Deeb said. "You still learn every year. You never stop learning. There's so much stuff online, it made it exciting to add a few new drills to keep the kids from getting bored."

The field is still her classroom after 1,000 games.

"Developing players socially and emotionally is just as important as their athletic skills," Deeb said. "I want them to remember playing for this team, remember the fun times, remember the growing times, the good and bad and what they've learned."