Delaney Troxell knew she was experiencing something special on the mound.

However, it wasn’t the first time.

Troxell hurled a perfect game in the Rough Riders’ 10-0 five-inning shortened victory April 12. The junior struck out 10 and went 3-for-3 at the plate with two doubles, a triple and two RBIs. Troxell helped raise her team’s record to 4-5 overall. After Troxell’s perfect game, the Roughies dropped a 6-1 decision to Bangor.

It was her second perfect game of her career. She tossed her first one against Panther Valley in a 4-0 victory April 4, 2022.

Troxell, who had 77 strikeouts this season and 348 for her career, didn’t lose her focus.

“I really felt strong throughout the game,” said Troxell. “My players were making plays and were hitting the ball, which helped me gain confidence in the circle. We have struggled putting the ball in play, but we have been hitting really well lately.

“My team has helped me offensively and defensively, which helped me reach my accomplishments.”

Head coach Paige Kogelman believes Troxell can continue her mastery.

“Delaney is a great leader from the circle,” said Kogelman. “We have made some minor pitching changes that have worked for her and the team lately. She continues to strive for perfection, and will continue to lead by example on both sides of the ball.”

Troxell credited her success to Kogelman, coach Kip Kogelman, coach Erica Procter, and coach Kate Haberern for their support.

“We have great coaches who have worked tirelessly to put us in positions for success,” added Troxell. “They also have stressed that our defense is important for us to win.”

The head coach has an opportunistic outlook after her team’s slow 1-4 start.

“In the beginning of the season, we had our first couple of games against top competitors,” she said. “We were just figuring out how to play as one.

“We have to be solid on both sides of the ball, and we’re just starting to figure out consistency. These girls have so much potential that they just have to dig in deep and see it for themselves.”

At 4-6, Kogelman isn’t overly concerned.

“They are united and determined to fight,” she stressed. “In each and every game, we are going to show our competitors who we are.”