The pitching of Claudia Knowles helped lead Perkiomen School's softball team to the Penn-Jersey Athletic Association title game. The Pennsburg resident commands

Claudia Knowles, and Pennsburg resident, delivers a  pitch during Perkiomen School's 15-0 win over Comm- unity Acadamy on May 12.

at least four different pitches, according to head coach Justin Sell.  "She's pretty good," he said.

            Besides dominating on the mound, Knowles has emerged as one of the team's top hitters. The sophomore left-hander has helped the Panthers (10-1) qualify for the Pennsylvania Independent Schools Athletic Association tournament, which begins later this month.

            Knowles has been dominant on the mound this spring. In 10 games and 43 innings, she has registered 94 strikeouts. She relies on a curveball, screwball, rise, and drop, according to the coach. He said the sophomore has started to incorporate a changeup against tougher competition.  "Claudia has so many different pitches," Sell said.

            Six of Perkiomen's 14 players are new to the sport but voluntarily started an off-season program in October.  "I never really expected this team to do this well," said Sell, in his third season leading the team. "But I'm not surprised due to their level of dedication."

            The Panthers were scheduled to take on Cristo Rey for the tournament championship on Wednesday, May 18, at F.D.R. Park in Philadelphia. They advanced by posting a three-inning victory over Community Academy in the semifinal round on Friday, May 13.

            In a 15-0 win over Community Academy, Knowles struck out all nine hitters she faced. Sofia Chwe delivered three of the team's 10 hits. Maria Contreras and Julia Pattas both finished with two hits.

            Gilbertsville residents Kenna and Hailey Tobin are also members of the team.