Ms.Gallego, an English teacher, and the girls softball coach, created the first Wolfpack girls softball team as an effort to make people feel comfortable learning about softball. Her intentions were to,”share that joy with everyone,” and with that, this is going to be the second season of softball in Wolfpack history.
Along with having a coach with prior experience, as Ms.Gallego has some college softball experience as well, the energy on the field is very positive. Both athletes and the coach describe the playing field as encouraging, challenging, and beneficial. Encouraging and challenging is a given when having supportive teammates by their side. Through this sport, it takes not just athletic skill to make it on the team.
Being a student-athlete on this team meant to have good time management, take risks, and be resilient. Resilience and the ability to fail is essential to this team’s growth and success. Taking risks and initiative is a vital part of being in the team, in all,“My goal is for them to take charge and support one another, while I am there to encourage their growth,” Gallego said.
The environment is extremely friendly and encouraging as said by multiple people trying or re-trying out for the team. Dahlila Sanchez, trying out for softball said,”So far it’s a safe space, the coach is really positive.” Returners, newcomers and try-outs alike, are all motivated to improve throughout the season. A motivating aspect of being on the team is the friendly and energetic atmosphere. With much support from both their peers and coach including receiving constructive criticism, it pushes the girls to work harder.
Offseason practices are an hour long, but that doesn’t stop the determined try-outs and returners from practicing and trying out their new skills. The players are enthusiastic about the upcoming season, they work hard from 4:00-5:00 p.m. during recent practices throughout the week. Players know they will do their best to improve their skill sets through many more upcoming practices leading into the season.
The amount of time and energy the team puts into these off-season practices goes to show just how determined both these girls and their coach is. Gallego shares her passion with the girls,“I am a better leader, person, and teacher because of the lessons softball has taught me. So I encourage you to come and try it out!” she exclaimed. The dedication in both teaching and playing the sport is impeccable, the coach’s final words were:”Thank you players for trusting me to lead with you as we begin our new season!”
