Softball Game Preview: Sussex Academy Seahawks vs. Polytech Panthers

The Sussex Academy Seahawks will head out on the road to challenge the Polytech Panthers at 4:15 p.m. on Thursday. Both teams are still undefeated (Sussex Academy has four wins , while Polytech has six dating back to last season).

Sussex Academy took a 14-run loss the last time they faced off against Indian River, but this time they managed to keep it close and that made all the difference. The Seahawks sure made it a nail-biter, but they managed to escape with a 6-5 win over the Indians on Tuesday. While the Seahawks didn't have the best season last year (they finished 8-10), it's starting to look like those struggles are a thing of the past.

Polytech hadn't beaten Sussex Central on the road since March 30, 2015 but that history sure didn't bother them on Tuesday. The Panthers were the clear victors by a 10-4 margin over the Golden Knights. For those keeping track at home, that's the biggest victory the Panthers have posted against the Golden Knights since March 30, 2015.

Madison Frazier spent all seven innings on the mound, and it's clear why: she surrendered three earned (and one unearned) runs on five hits and racked up seven Ks. She has been consistent recently: she hasn't tossed less than six strikeouts in three consecutive appearances.

At the plate, the team relied heavily on Emma Shelton, who went a perfect 4-for-4 with four RBI, two runs, and one double. Another player making a difference was Danica Humphries, who scored three runs and stole a base while going 2-for-4.

Sussex Academy pushed their record up to 4-0 with the win, which was their third straight at home. As for Polytech, their record is now 6-0.

Sussex Academy might still be hurting after the 6-0 defeat they got from Polytech in their previous matchup back in May of 2024. Can the Seahawks avenge their loss or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.