Eighth Grader Emily Atwood Leads Hopedale Softball to Top Seed

Hopedale’s Emily Atwood has had a sensational season for the Blue Raiders, and her dominance continued Saturday against Milford. The eighth-grade phenom went the distance, striking out six and allowing just two runs in a complete-game performance. That win capped off a stretch in which she also led Hopedale to victories over Bay Path and Northbridge. Atwood has emerged as one of the top players in the state, boasting a 1.86 ERA, 1.12 WHIP, and an eye-popping 159 strikeouts across 90 innings. Her impact isn’t limited to the mound, she’s also batting .415 at the plate. Thanks in large part to her contributions, Hopedale enters the Division 5 playoffs as a top-five seed. Her talent has been recognized across the region. She’s earned Softball Player of the Week nominations from both the Milford Daily News and the Worcester Telegram & Gazette. Just an eighth grader, Atwood is already a key figure in Hopedale’s program and has a bright future ahead, both on the field and academically, as an honor roll student. Make sure to keep an eye on Emily in these playoffs as Hopedale looks to raise a banner.