LA VERNE, CA — Linda Gherir and Marissa Acosta have been tabbed All-SCIAC the Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference announced Thursday.

SCIAC Release

Gherir made an immediate impact in the first year at La Verne. The junior transfer, who batted in the leadoff position for most of the season, led the conference with a .538 batting average. Gherir led La Verne and ranked third in the conference with five stolen bases. She also led La Verne with 14 hits and three doubles and tied for first on her squad with nine RBIs and nine runs.

"Linda did an outstanding job as our centerfielder, she hit for power and came up with some clutch at bats in this short season," said La Verne head softball coach Dennis Blas. "She is going to be a tough out next year when we get to play a complete season."

Gherir notched a hit in every game this year, had multi-hit outings in five of eight games, and scored a run in all but one game.

Acosta added her name to the All-SCIAC list after an outstanding sophomore campaign. Acosta ranked third in the SCIAC with a .500 batting average and ranked second on La Verne with 13 hits. The utility player tied for first on the squad with Gherir and Jocelyn Robertson with nine RBIs. She tied for first with four walks and added one triple, one double, and a stolen base. Teammate Haylee Hsieh ranked second in the SCIAC with a .524 batting average.

"Marissa came in this year with a different mindset and it showed from the very beginning. She hit to all parts of the field and showed some power," said Blas. "She is only going to continue to get better each year."

Acosta showcased her versatility this season and selflessness this season by making two appearances in the circle to help her squad.

The Leopard finished the regular season in third place this year with a 3-3 SCIAC record and ended the year 3-5 overall.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, California Lutheran, Chapman, La Verne, and Redlands were the lone participants for the SCIAC during the Spring of 2021. All institutions were eligible for the Character Award.