“We’ve been working hard in the off season, and I’m excited to see all of that effort shown on the field and a strong team chemistry,” said Emma Flores, who is the varsity captain and plays shortstop.
The Wolfpack softball season is just around the corner. Captains and players have been working on improving their skills by sharing similar goals of improving teamwork, communication, and confidence on the field.
Captains have set goals for their upcoming softball season. “Keeping a positive mindset, building strong positive relationships with each other,” Mariana Contreras, varsity captain and catcher said. She adds, “Another goal is making sure to have fun; it’s an important factor of success.” Flores shares the same point of view by pointing out that while winning is one factor of playing the game, constant improvement and having fun lead to better chances of success, better teamwork and communication.
The captains shared that preparing the team involved more than just practice drills. Contreras said, “I helped the team to stay motivated and stay positive through practices and pre-season games.” Flores shares that this is her first year as a captain and she would like to lead by example, “There’s a lot of new girls that haven’t played softball which is totally fine.” She emphasizes mentorship in her leadership approach: “I try to show them how to do things correctly, so they don’t get injured and to work hard to bring their best selves.”
Following the captains’ insights, the players shared their improvement and strength on the team and how it would shape for the upcoming season. Sophia Santiago, a junior and the main pitcher on the varsity team, explains how her team has improved during preseason, “My team has been working very hard to improve their infield skills, outfielding skills, batting skills and communication skills.”
Linda Hernandez, senior catcher, adds on “The team has been working on batting and focusing on the ball.” She elaborated, “Making sure we don’t make small mistakes that can ruin the game.”
The players expressed excitement about the upcoming season and getting on the field and testing the skills they’ve been working on during preseason. Santiago shares their biggest strengths, “Our bonding and our personality, how we interact with each other and how we come together as a team.” Hernandez shares the same perspective, “This team is strong because of how the girls are very close together and how we could make a comeback.”
With a long season ahead, both captains and players shared how they plan to stay motivated throughout the months of competition. “Stay positive before a long season by focusing on having fun and being dedicated.” Contreras said. Hernandez expressed a similar view, “I stay motivated by taking breaks and have enough fun during practices and games.”
Santiago shares her motivation is her family, friends and her team. However, Flores said it best: “Setting goals and supporting each other by remembering why we came to play softball.” She further explains, “keeping a positive mindset and celebrating even small improvements to help us stay focused.”
The softball team won three preseason games heading into the season. They have shown their improvement before opening day and are consistent to show what a great team they are. Their opening day is April 8 with Elizabeth Learning Center. Come and support Varsity and JV softball.
