Claire Helring Shines as Holy Cross Softball Reaches State Finals

Claire Helring has been instrumental in the Holy Cross softball team’s impressive postseason run. The junior standout has excelled at the plate, boasting a batting average of .529 during the playoffs with nine hits in 17 at-bats, contributing eight runs and three RBIs. Her performance has elevated her season average to .409, with a total of two doubles, six home runs, 23 runs, and 19 RBIs, propelling the Lady Crusaders to their first-ever appearance in the state final.

On Thursday at 4 p.m., Holy Cross (21-3), champions of District 2, will face District 7's Union Area (22-2), the defending state champions, in the PIAA Class 1A title game at Penn State University's Nittany Lion Softball Park and Beard Field. Helring expressed her excitement, stating, “It’s the first time in school history and we beat some really good teams to get here. So I think we’ve really earned our spot.”

Coach Joe Ross highlighted Helring's ability to come alive when it matters most. “When she gets on a hot streak, she can hit with anybody,” he noted, emphasizing her hard work and persistence to overcome slumps. Helring's resilience was particularly evident in a dramatic quarterfinal match against Claysburg Kimmel, where a potential game-winning home run was nullified by an earlier call. Undeterred, she rebounded to hit a single that sparked the winning rally.

“It felt horrible at first,” Helring recounted, “but to be able to come back with the single and do something productive for my team was enough for me. It felt just as good.” Her teammate, Kiera Bauman, later scored Helring, securing a thrilling 6-5 victory. This win was especially significant for Helring, who noted that avenging last year's quarterfinal loss felt like winning a championship in itself.

In addition to her offensive prowess, Helring has also made a name for herself defensively as a reliable left fielder, transitioning from third base to the outfield prior to last season. Her efforts earned her second-team all-state honors. Coach Ross considered moving her back to the infield this season but ultimately decided to keep her in the outfield due to her dependable performance.

As they prepare for the final against Union Area, Ross sees similarities between both teams, noting their strong offensive capabilities. However, he remains confident in his squad, particularly with pitcher Ava Schmidt on the mound. “I think going into the game our players are confident and we’ll be ready,” he said.