Mighty Oaks Close Out Resilient 2026 Season at Region 19 Tournament

Trenton, NJ - The Salem Community College softball team saw its 2026 campaign come to a close in the opening round of the NJCAA Region 19 Division II Softball Tournament, falling in a pair of competitive contests to finish the year with a strong 28-20 overall record.

Salem opened tournament play against top-seeded Mercer County Community College, dropping an 8-3 decision despite a solid offensive effort. The Mighty Oaks collected seven hits in the contest, led by multi-hit performances from Savannah Palverento and Bella Rappa.

Palverento paced the offense, going 2-for-2 with an RBI and a walk, while Rappa added two hits of her own. Jaylene Aguirre contributed with a hit and an RBI, and Emme Witter and Lilly Peverelle each crossed the plate in the loss. Peverelle also recorded a double as part of Salem's extra-base production.

In the circle, Raegan Wilson started and worked four innings, allowing five runs (three earned) while striking out two. Jordyn Busch entered in relief, tossing two innings and taking the loss as Mercer pulled away late.

Facing elimination, the Mighty Oaks battled Lackawanna College in a tightly contested matchup, ultimately falling just short in a 6-5 heartbreaker.

Salem showed resilience throughout the game, drawing five walks and manufacturing runs in key moments. Savannah Palverento once again led the offense with two hits and an RBI, including a double. Megan Koski and Emme Witter each drove in runs, while Koski also added a sacrifice fly.

The Mighty Oaks were aggressive on the basepaths, with Jalyn Rambally and Lilly Peverelle each recording stolen bases. Peverelle also reached base twice via walks and scored a run, while Bella Rappa and Jocelyn Melendez each added runs in the narrow defeat.

Jordyn Busch delivered a complete-game effort in the circle, pitching 6.1 innings and striking out five, but was saddled with the tough-luck loss as Lackawanna pushed across the go-ahead run late.

Despite the early tournament exit, the 2026 season will be remembered for the team's perseverance and unity. The Mighty Oaks overcame significant adversity after the early-season absence of head coach Angel Rodriguez due to health issues. In a powerful moment for the program, Coach Rodriguez returned to the field down the stretch, helping guide the team through the final weeks of the season.

Salem's 28 wins reflect a year defined not only by on-field success, but by resilience, determination, and a commitment to one another that carried the program through challenges and into postseason play.

With a strong core returning and valuable postseason experience gained, the Mighty Oaks look poised to build on this season's foundation in the years ahead.