To say that the Derby softball team had a rough start to the season would be an understatement.

The Red Raiders lost their first six games, including 17-0 to top-ranked Seymour in the season opener.

Since, there’s been a steady progression. Derby has now won five straight and sits a game under .500 at 5-6.

“It was a tough beginning to the season,” Derby coach Joe DiMartino said. “We played a lot of very good teams. We were struggling, and I think we needed to jell as a team. Then things started to click. They’re more confident now. They know they can win games, which is a big plus.”

Read more of Monday's Notebook here.



Seymour remains No. 1 in Register Top 10 Poll

DIAMOND GEMS

(A recap of last week's top performances)

HIT PARADE

Christina Laudano, Wilbur Cross: Senior had five hits, including a home run, and eight RBIs as the Governors split a doubleheader with rival Hillhouse on Friday.

ACES

Brittany Fusek, Brookfield: Senior allowed just two hits in a 1-0 win over Oxford on Saturday.

TEAM EFFORT

Amity: The Spartans improved to 10-1 with victories over Sheehan, Cheshire and Mercy.

WATCH THIS

Rockville (11-0) at Rocky Hill (8-0), Monday, 7 p.m.: Two of the remaining unbeaten teams in the state square off in this Central Connecticut Conference contest.

For more Diamond Gems, click here.

SPOTLIGHT TEAM: SACRED HEART ACADEMY

Click here for a video interview with the captains.