The University of Toronto Varsity Blues fastpitch team went 5-1 to open their 2016 regular season this past weekend (Sept. 9-11) placing them near the top of the standings in the OIWFA in second place.
 
The Blues opened the season with a 4-1 victory over Brock on Friday (Sept. 9) night with third-year pitcher Taisley Isaac delivering a strong performance from the pitching circle.

In Game 2 of their doubleheader with Brock, Toronto dropped a narrow 5-3 decision following a defensive miscue. Fifth-year newcomer Shelby Reid led the way offensively for the Blues in the loss with two runs driven in while second-year pitcher Annie Vlahiotis battled through the tough-fought loss.
 
Toronto bounced back in a big way on Saturday (Sept. 10) afternoon, defeating the York Lions 8-1 and 10-6 on home turf at Dieppe Park.

With eight runs of support, third-year pitcher Alicia Callaghan delivered with confidence in U of T's opening contest, earning seven strikeouts in her first no-hitter as a Varsity Blue.

In Game 2, Isaac once again took to the mound for the Blues delivering a five strikeout complete game to earn the victory while Reid continued her strong offensive weekend picking up another three runs driven in.
 
U of T then ended their longest opening weekend in team history in style with 13-10 and 12-5 victories over the previously unbeaten Queen's Gaels on Sunday.
 
In a long, drawn out affair, the Blues offence saw every player reach base to achieve their 13 run total against the Gaels. Fourth-year outfielder Nicole Knudsen delivered the biggest damage to Queen's with two triples and three runs driven in.

Then, Callaghan and Vlahiotis combined to pitch in the teams impressive weekend finale. Meanwhile, Reid continued her hot-streak going 4-for-4 at the plate driving in two more runs while third-year shortstop Mercedes Roddau also delivered a perfect day at the plate going 3-for-3 with two RBIs.
 
The Varsity Blues are back in action this Friday, September 16 when they host the Ottawa Gee-Gees at Dieppe Park. Game times are set for 7 and 9 p.m.

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