Eriksson Leads The Way for Miami Dade

Miami Dade continued its strong start to the season, powering past Central Alabama Community College, 11–9, in a high-scoring contest to complete a successful opening day for the Sharks.

Miami Dade jumped on the board early, scoring twice in the first inning behind an RBI double from Cate Haggerty and an RBI single from Ebba Sofia Eriksson. The Sharks kept the momentum rolling in the second, highlighted by a two-run home run from Jaylene Mieres that extended the early advantage.

The offense broke the game open in the third inning, plating five runs on four extra-base hits. Valeria Rivera delivered a two-run double, Mieres followed with a two-run double of her own, and Caroline Mito capped the rally with an RBI double as Miami Dade built a commanding lead.

Central Alabama responded with runs in the second and fourth innings before mounting a six-run rally in the fifth to cut into the deficit and make it a one-run game. The Sharks answered in the sixth, however, as Amanda Handa drove in an insurance run to help stabilize the momentum.

Miami Dade's lineup produced throughout the order, finishing with 16 hits. Eriksson led the way with a perfect 4-for-4 performance and two runs scored, while Mieres powered the offense with four RBIs, including the early home run. Rivera added two hits and two RBIs, and Mito finished with three hits and two runs scored as the Sharks consistently applied pressure offensively.

Inside the circle, Handa earned the win in relief, tossing 2.2 scoreless innings while allowing no hits and striking out one to close the door late. Ava Salvino made the start, and the pitching staff combined to hold Central Alabama scoreless over the final two innings to secure the victory.

With the win, Miami Dade completes the opening day sweep, showcasing an explosive offense and timely pitching as the Sharks carry early-season momentum into the remainder of the weekend.