Merritt Island, FL
Rockwell’s Cougars Stay Hot, Roll Past Cocoa Beach 11–3
Head Coach Micah Rockwell has his squad playing confident, connected softball — and it showed again Thursday night.
Fresh off an Opening Night statement, Merritt Island Christian High School kept the momentum rolling with a commanding 11–3 victory over Cocoa Beach High School at Merritt Island Lassie League Softball.
Two games into the 2026 season, the Cougars look sharp, disciplined, and dangerous.
Senior Parker Morrison of Merritt Island Christian
Fast Start Sets the Tone
Merritt Island Christian wasted no time getting on the board.
In the bottom of the first, Kachouroff ripped a double to center field to spark the offense, and Sophia Robison followed with a productive groundout that plated another run. Just like that, the Cougars were in control.
By the third inning, Rockwell’s lineup began applying relentless pressure. Kachouroff drove in another run on a fielder’s choice, Posey shot a single down the left field line, Miller drew a bases-loaded walk, and Morrison added another RBI knock to stretch the lead.
It wasn’t just power — it was patience, execution, and situational awareness.
Discipline at the Plate
One of the most impressive aspects of the Cougars’ performance was their approach.
Merritt Island Christian tallied 11 hits and eight walks, forcing Cocoa Beach pitching to work deep into counts. Miller led the way with two walks, while Shea delivered a 2-for-3 performance and drove in a team-high three runs.
Ebert, Robison O, and Shea each collected two hits as the Cougars continued to show balance throughout the lineup.
This is a team that isn’t chasing pitches. They’re building innings.
Robison Goes the Distance
In the circle, Sophia Robison delivered another steady performance. The right-hander tossed a complete game, allowing eight hits and three runs (just one earned) over seven innings while striking out three and walking two.
Behind her, the Cougars’ defense stayed sharp — even turning a key double play to halt a Cocoa Beach rally.
That combination of composed pitching and clean defense has become a theme early in the season under Rockwell’s leadership.
Cocoa Beach Fights, But Cougars Finish
Cocoa Beach showed competitive fire, highlighted by Peirce’s impressive 4-for-4 night at the plate. Soboczynski, Dawson, and Hattrup each drove in a run for the Minutemen.
But every time Cocoa Beach tried to build momentum, Merritt Island Christian had an answer.
That’s what good teams do. That’s what well-coached teams do.
Building Something Early
Through two games, Coach Micah Rockwell’s Cougars have:
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Outscored opponents 22–4
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Showcased explosive offense
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Demonstrated patience and discipline
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Delivered steady pitching
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Played clean, confident defense
It’s early — but the foundation looks strong.
Next up, Merritt Island Christian faces Cocoa Varsity Tigers on Monday. If the Cougars continue executing at this level, they won’t just be winning games — they’ll be setting the standard.
The message is clear: the Cougars are not easing into 2026.
They’re attacking it.
Meet the Author Ricky Bumgardner Jr
