Courtesy of Bob Heller, USP SID

PHILADELPHIA, PA (May 13, 2009) - The University of the Sciences in Philadelphia Department of Athletics and Head Women’s Softball coach Cindy Rabideau are pleased to announce their freshman class of incoming softball players for the 2009-10 academic year.

Seeking to add depth at the pitching position, the Devils have signed two-time Delco Times Player of the Year Courtney Spina (Garnet Valley High School/Thornton, Pa.). Spina has posted a 15-1 record this season with four no-hitters while allowing just one earned run in 109 innings pitched (0.06 ERA). The all-State pitcher has struck out 199 batters. Courtney has been a two-time first team All-Delco honoree, and was named to the first team all-state in 2007.

Joining Spina as part of USP’s pitching staff will be Julie Shaw (Ramapo High School/Wyckoff, N.J.). Shaw has led her team to a 15-4 record this season and into the quarterfinals of the Bergen County Championships, where the Green Raiders have won 17 straight games dating back to 2005. The right handed hurler has been a two-time first team all-league selection.

Adding depth to the infield will be Gabrielle Adams (Chichester High School/Aston, Pa.) and Haley Kavelak (Middletown High School/Townsend, Del.). Adams, a third baseman, has been a starting varsity player at Chichester since her freshman year and last season played for the Delaware County Carpenter Cup team. Adams was an All-Delco honorable mention in each of the last two seasons. Kavelak, an all-state shortstop/first baseman, has helped lead her team to a 14-2 record this season.

Erin Summers (Pitman High School/N.J.) and Kerrianne Jones (West Chester East High School/West Chester, Pa.) will round out the 09-10 signees for the Devils. Summers will see action in the outfield and at the catcher’s position while Jones should get plenty of time at third base and possibly see some action at shortstop or catcher.

“Being able to add the depth of these six athletes to the returning players will allow USP to continue its success, both on and off the field,” said Coach Rabideau.

Spina, Shaw, Kavelak and Summers will major in pharmacy while Adams will major in biology and Jones, physical therapy.