Lisa Muroya University Year: Senior Sport: Softball Position: Shortstop

Whatever else happens at this weekend’s State AAA softball tournament, don’t expect Lisa Muroya to bat anywhere but No. 3.

Muroya’s University team entered last weekend’s Region IV-AAA tourney with a 22-0 record. U-Hi coach Ken VanSickle shuffled his batting order for the opener against Walla Walla, moving just-healed Kelly Pierce to No. 2 and dropping Muroya to No. 5.

After Walla Walla handed U-Hi its first loss of the year, the Titans asked VanSickle to return to the old order. U-Hi won its next three for a return trip to state.

“I don’t think (the lineup change) cost us the ballgame, but the girls felt uncomfortable hitting in that order,” VanSickle said.

Muroya finished 8 for 13 at region, with multiple hits in every game. The effort made up for last year, when Muroya struggled at region after her late-season insertion at second base when Megan Mertens was hurt.

“That was a little nerve-wracking because I hadn’t played the rest of the year,” said Muroya, who hit .364 this season.

Muroya didn’t make an error until her 14th Greater Spokane League game.

“She time and again made the clutch play,” said VanSickle, who pointed out Muroya’s quick release and accurate arm.

Muroya is the lone senior starter in the talented Titans lineup. , DataTimes ILLUSTRATION: Color Photo