May 15, 2007

VILLANOVA, Pa. - On May 6, 2007, the careers of two very special softball players came to a close on the campus of Villanova University. Seniors Sheri Donley (Orange, Calif.) and Cassie Koenig (Las Vegas, Nev.) played in their final game in a Wildcat uniform against Notre Dame on this day. And although the game was lost, it was still a celebration of the great careers of these tremendous student athletes. They have both left a lasting impression on Villanova softball that will be felt for years to come.

In terms of wins and loses, the two seniors have already cemented their places in the record books at Villanova. Both finished their careers ranked in the top ten of numerous statistical categories and garnered first team all-conference awards during their careers.

Donley, a four-year starter at shortstop for Villanova, closed her career by becoming the eighth player in Villanova softball history to collect 200 hits and score 100 runs. She finished her career with 210 hits and 104 runs scored, placing her tenth and tied for seventh, respectively.

Donley's 18 career home runs place her in a tie for fourth place all-time while she also hit 34 doubles, good for sixth on the career list.

Koenig, a constant behind the plate during her four years on the Main Line, closed out her career in third place on the career home runs list with 20, tenth in runs scored with 88 and ninth with 31 doubles. She also leaves Villanova with 190 hits.

These two seniors were the leaders offensively this past season for the Wildcats, both setting single season highs with their batting averages. Koenig led the team, batting at a .346 clip while Donley was close behind with a .337 average. Donley's previous season high of .308 came in her sophomore year when she would go on to earn first team All-BIG EAST honors.

This past season, Koenig set personal bests in RBIs (28), hits (62), on-base percentage (.413) and defensive assists (35). Donley also set personal bests during the 2007 season in runs scored (32), home runs (8), on-base percentage (.365) and stolen bases (10).

For her efforts this past season, Donley was named to the second team All-BIG EAST.

As coaches Maria DiBernardi and Linda Goss reflect on their senior's careers, they find it hard to put into words. "Cassie and Sheri are the kind of players that every coach wants. They work hard, are always trying to improve and come to the game focused on winning. Off the field they are both diligent students, leaving Villanova with high GPAs. There are so many opportunities for both of them. Finally, Sheri and Cassie are kind, loyal and funny. They are truly a coach's dream. To say good-bye to them, will be very hard."

Both will earn their degrees later this month from Villanova, with Donley doing so in Sociology. Koenig will receive degrees in International Business as well as Management.