The Rockridge Rockets topped the defending state champion Beecher Bobcats 5-2 to win the Class 2A State Softball championship Saturday afternoon at Eastside Center in East Peoria. Rockridge got off to a quick start as catcher Sara Bisland hit a three run home run in the top of the first. Beecher responded with two runs in the bottom half of the frame and the Rockets lead 3-2 after one inning of play. The score stayed there until Amelia “Ya Ya” Thomas doubled in a run in the top of the fourth to give the Rockets a two run lead. Rockridge added an insurance run in the top of the seventh when pitcher Grace Preston homered. After a shaky start, Preston settled in and went the distance to pick up the win. The Rockets end the season with a 29-5 record and they did not lose to a Class 1A or 2A team this season.
