What’s shaped like a diamond, but is orange? If you guessed the softball field, you’re correct! That’s the place where nine girls play together to secure home plate.

Softball season is approaching and the girls on the team are anxious for the upcoming games. The girl’s first game was a 12-7 loss against Felix Varela High school on February 14th.

Junior and captain of the team Samantha Jiron said, “I’m really looking forward to being part of districts this year again just like last year and my freshman year.”

Senior and co-captain Noemi Martinez said, “This season I want to make it to districts once again, and this time, bring the win home with us.”

Sophomore Madison McReynolds wants to see the team improve this season and all the hard work they’ve put in to pay off.”
Social studies teacher Ms. Albornoz, who works as a trainer for the team, says she has high expectations for the team this year because she knows they can make it to regionals again.

Coach Waldo Rodriguez simply says, “I hope we can win districts this year and then move on from there.”

Last year the girls had 8 wins and 9 losses.  They beat Miami Beach twice 11-6 and 16-4, and they also beat South Miami 5-4. They made it to districts playoffs where they won one game. Coach Waldo Rodriguez said the team needs to improve their ability of filling in positions of other girls when they are not able to play.

Being on the team may bring challenges, but the girls always overcome them together. Sophomore Shantel Chavarria said that her favorite part about being on the team is improving their skills together and growing as a team.

For sophomore Daiana Morales, “It’s all about building better friendships and getting to learn how to work under pressure as a team. We motivate each other to do better and that’s what makes our team special.”

There are many reasons why girls join the softball team. Sophomore Sherly Castro said, “Ever since I was little I was always into softball and what better way to play than being on the team.” Sophomore Jasmine Cantillano enjoys going to other schools and competing.

Sophomore Melissa Ravelo, who joined her freshman year, said, “I saw a poster asking for girls to try out and something clicked inside of me telling me to join.” Sophomore Antonia Cervantes had a similar experience, “Seeing the flyers out in the hallways really caught my attention and I knew that this was the sport for me.”