Despite a much stronger showing than it had one day earlier against the same opponent, Harvard's fate was no different. The Sooner eliminated the Crimson from the postseason and ended Harvard's fabulous season with a 3-0 defeat. UMass went on to defeat Oklahoma in the Region 5 finals and earn a trip to the Women's College World Series.

"We went into the Regionals ready to take on anybody," Franzese said. "Our momentum kept building and building. We could have easily collapsed for the B.C. game, but we didn't. We never gave up; it was just a better team [Oklahoma] that beat us."

While the ending to the season may not have played out the fairy tale scenario Harvard had hoped for, the Crimson's 1998 campaign remains the most memorable in the history of the program. Harvard's 34 victories represent a new school record, eclipsing the previous mark of 32 set only last season. Harvard Coach Jenny Allard, in just her fourth season at the helm, is now the Crimson's all-time winningest skipper with a career record of 115-72-1.

"I'm very proud of how we did," Cupp said. "I knew we were talented, but I think we performed even better than expected, especially at Regionals. I think with a year of experience, the returning players will expect a little more next year."

Harvard graduates six players this afternoon: Franzese, Cupp, Read, Heather Brown, Mandy Wills and Tara Hartl. But Harvard's underclassmen appear prepared to make a run at a second consecutive Ivy title next season.

Eight of the Crimson's 11 All-Ivy honorees will return for the 1999 season, including four of the squad's top five hitters from this year (Abeles, LaSovage, Rice and Amberg). Thoke has already established herself as a potent force on the mound as well--she led the Ivies in strikeouts this season with 165 Ks in 146 innings.

"We had the best year ever. I hope it continues in the future, and I think it will," Franzese said. "The returning players know what it takes, and they have what it takes."

For now, however, Harvard continues to savor the achievements of its groundbreaking season, which is less than three weeks removed. Like a newlywed couple, the Crimson entered unchartered territory this year, and it hopes its time in the elite company of playoff squads will continue next season and for many happy years to come.