HENNIKER, N.H. – New England College sophomore catcher Emma Lopez (Downey, Calif.) of the NEC softball team has been named the Female Pilgrim of the Month for May of 2024 in an announcement by the Department of Athletics on Monday.

Lopez had a breakout 2024 season, leading the Pilgrims in hits (49), doubles (nine), runs batted in (35), slugging (.516) and sacrifice fly balls (four). The second-year catcher's RBI total ranked her fourth all-time in a single season in the school's modern history, and she has established herself as one of the toughest players in NEC history to strikeout, with her 4.62 career K% ranking her third all-time. 

Lopez helped the Pilgrims reach the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Championship Tournament in just their first season in the league, beating Rivier University and Mitchell College in the playoffs.

"Emma is the consummate professional." NEC head coach Ben Master said of his burgeoning star catcher. "She will do what needs to be done for the team on and off the field. Additionally, she brings consistency to the field throughout [the] season. All in all, it is nice to know we are better than any opponent we play at whatever position Emma is at."

For continuing coverage of New England College Athletics, visit athletics.nec.edu and follow the Pilgrims on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.