The girls softball team ended their season with a 11-11 overall record. After placing fourth in Mission League Finals, the team won 11-8 in the first round of California Interscholastic Federation Southern Section (CIF-SS) Division four Playoffs against Lakeside High School on May 14. However, the girls lost 12-5 in the second round against St. Bonaventure High School at Encino Franklin Fields on May 16.
Outfielder Emma Tseng ’26 said the team became more connected throughout the year, making the final season with graduating seniors especially meaningful.
“Although the season didn’t end the way we had hoped, I am proud of how much our team grew,” Tseng said. “We were placed in the Mission League, but we brought our best energy and effort to each game, and I think we all grew much closer as a result. Our team did a great job of balancing fun and seriousness this season. This season was particularly special because we had seven seniors on the team, so it was bittersweet getting to share the field with all of them for the last time.”
Third baseman Hannah Tabesh ’28 said the match against Chaminade High School was memorable because it reflected the team’s improvement on communication and teamwork.
“My favorite game from this season was definitely the game against Chaminade,” Tabesh said. “We fought back and forth through nine innings and ultimately won on a walk-off grand slam. It was such a fun game, and we worked together so well to win, which was the biggest challenge for our team. Getting the team to play together cohesively when we have so many people playing out of position was hard. The biggest way we overcame this was by making sure we communicated a little extra on the field and making sure everyone knew what their role is in every play.”
Utility Sarah Barrientos ’29 said adjusting to a new school while being the youngest player on the team was difficult at first, but she eventually felt as if the team was her second family through support and camaraderie.
“My biggest challenge this season was being the only freshman on the squad,” Barrientos said. “Not only was I the only freshman, but this is my first year at the school. It’s not in my nature to be outgoing, so it was hard to come into a group that had already known each other for a few seasons. Even though I wasn’t friends yet with most of them, that didn’t stop me from being their loudest cheerleader in the dugout. It took me a bit, but I eventually felt right at home with this group of girls. I came onto the team only knowing a couple of girls that I had played travel ball with, and I ended the season with a second family.”
Co-captain and center fielder Kale’a Tindal ’26 said the team’s commitment was the most rewarding aspect of the season and that she will carry the experience into college softball.
“I am proud of how our team developed a sense of perseverance and determination to win over the course of the season,” Tindal said. “Though we did not make it as far as we wanted, it was fulfilling to be part of a group that wanted to succeed for one another. Moving forward, I will definitely take away the experience of playing competitive softball with my friends and pursuing a collective goal with my team.”
Barrientos said the team’s dedication and preparation helped them become successful both on and off the field.
“Although our season ended, I am most proud of the effort and commitment that we all put into it,” Barrientos said. “Getting into the playoffs is not the easiest, and getting to the second round is even harder. I can confidently say that everyone regularly came out to practice, and it showed on the field. Because of this, we were able to develop and grow our relationships with one another. The lesson that I can take away from this season is that it really starts as soon as you step on the field. From warm-ups during practice to the first pitch in the game, it all matters. All the reps we get before and during the games are what ultimately make you capable of making good plays.”
