18U Gold’s Zicchinelli Commits to Molloy University 

Huntington, NY – Ava Zicchinelli, (2025 – Miller Place, NY) has just committed to Molloy University (Rockville Centre, NY) that has a rich tradition of success in the East Region of NCAA Division II softball, to play for Coach Cassidy-Lyke. and the Lions. Molloy consistently is in contention for the East Coast Conference title and has had many NCAA appearances, with the pinnacle years being 2010, 2013 and 2017 when they advanced to the Women’s College World Series.

Director of Softball Operations and 18U Gold Head Coach, Jamie Apicella commented on Zicchinelli’s commitment announcement:

“Ava is a Team Beast player who knows how to flat out compete. She never shows any emotion and lives pitch to pitch in her approach. Playing for strong softball programs at Miller Place High School and Team Beast 18U Gold over the years, has prepared Ava for the highest level of Division II softball. She has carried both teams in the circle. Led Miller Place and Coach Timmons to a Suffolk County Championship, Long Island Championship and to the State Final game in 2024. She’s a pure athlete that excels in the circle, on the defensive side and offensive side of the game. When Ava steps out of circle she is patrolling CF and batting lead off. She is a center fielder by trade but can play all OF positions. Runs extremely well with phenomenal arm strength from the outfield. Ava is a gap-to-gap hitter that also can beat you with her speed. She exudes a confidence in the batter's box with a great approach to hitting. Great awareness of the strike zone with an inner swagger that is present in every aspect of her game. Her preparedness, work ethic and commitment to her craft has set her up for this tremendous opportunity at Molloy University. Ava has achieved many pre and post season accolades over her high school career. She was County Pitcher of Year in 2023. She was back-to-back League Pitcher of Year in 2023 and 2024. All County, All Long Island and All NY State in 2024. Ava just continues to rack up accolades in her career and is expected to continue that trend entering her senior campaign. In addition, Ava is a 3-sport athlete lettering in Field Hockey, Basketball and Softball.

Ava’s academic achievements in high school has laid the foundation for continued success in the classroom. High level student who wants to major in Nursing. Molloy University has a very strong Nursing program and is a perfect fit for Ava to continue both her academic and athletic career. Congratulations to Ava and her family on this outstanding accomplishment. We are so proud and happy for you and know you have a bright future ahead of you. We are excited to follow your career at Molloy University.”

Team Beast 18U Gold has resumed team workouts and training in preparation for the upcoming fall season. The team compiled a 22-4-2 overall record this summer.