Under new coach, Fox Chapel softball makes most of early season schedule

By: Josh Rizzo
Saturday, March 22, 2025 | 11:01 AM

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Larry Troutman hasn’t had to worry about some of the typical pratfalls that revolve around taking over a spring sports program.

The first-year Fox Chapel softball coach has had excellent weather to get settled into the job. Following two years leading Leechburg, the Foxes’ new coach didn’t want to waste the opportunity to get to know his team quickly.

Troutman worked with Fox Chapel athletic director Michael O’Brien to reschedule some nonsection games and get them in before Section 1-5A play started.

The Foxes have responded by winning their first three games and outscoring their opponents 33-6.

“We got our two scrimmages and three games in,” Troutman said. “We wanted to take advantage of the warm weather. Monday (March 17’s win over Butler) was cold, but it was an opportunity to see live-game action. There’s nothing that can replace that. It gives us a better understanding of how the girls handle the pressure. How do they handle a 3-2 count or seeing a changeup early in the count?”

Fox Chapel will open section play at home against Plum on March 27.

Foxes pitcher Jillian Haigh struck out nine batters in the Foxes’s 10-0 win over Butler. Haigh also went 3 for 4 at the plate and drove in two runs.

Haigh and Ella Eisner will do a majority of Fox Chapel’s pitching.

During Fox Chapel’s 18-2 win over Kiski, the Foxes lineup provided plenty of punch. Maria Stiger went 2 for 2 with a home run and two RBIs, while Heidi Stiger contributed a double.

While Troutman enjoyed his two years coaching at Leechburg, he feels spoiled by what he has at his disposal with the Foxes.

“There were a couple of things that brought me here,” said Troutman, who lives in the district. “One was the amazing facilities that Fox Chapel has to offer. There’s a turf field and two gyms. It’s almost like a Division III program. Also, the depth we have with girls. There were 27 who tried out, and we cut five.”

Tags: Fox Chapel