STANDISH, ME - Two members of the Saint Joseph's College softball team were honored by the Association of Division III Independents this week. First-year players Kristi Albert (Farmingdale, ME) and Gabrielle Burrola (Gallup, NM) helped the young St. Joe's squad and Coach Jamie Smyth (9th Year, SJC `92) make a remarkable turnaround this season, posting a 24-17 record after finishing just 12-25 in 2005.

Kristi Albert earned First Team honors after starting 41 games in the outfield and batting .422 with a .952 fielding percentage. Albert led the team with 57 hits, had 8 stolen bases and was also honored by the New England Intercollegiate Softball Association as an Honorable Mention.

Gabrielle Burrola also started 41 games and was named to the Second Team for her 11-9 performance on the mound and was recognized with an Honorable Mention for her efforts at second base. Burrola allowed only 24 walks and struck out 87 in 132 innings pitched and was very effective at the plate, batting .331 with a team-high 39 RBI.

Softball coaches at member institutions of the Association of Division III Independents selected the players during a conference call.

The Association of Division III Independents consists of 19 Division III independent institutions that have joined together to recognize student-athletes at independent institutions, and to provide exempted postseason championship competition in seven sports in 2005-06. The Association recognizes outstanding athletic achievements of its student-athletes on a weekly, monthly and annual basis. The Association also provides statistical services for its members in seven sports, and has announced All-Independent teams at the conclusion of eight other sports this year.