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Varsity Softball
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By Alisa Walsh

This year’s varsity softball team is sometimes referred to as “the team to watch” this spring. With numerous new players and several returning players from last year, the team is said to be one of the best in VC history. Only been a few weeks into the season, the team already has great chemistry due to play in tournaments, sleepovers, and fun times at practice. The girls can be seen sweating it out in the smoldering hot sun at least five days a week, endlessly running around bases and taking hitting practice. All this training will help the girls as they face some of the top teams in the West Catholic League. When asked if they can handle such competition, sophomore shortstop Chana’e Jones simply replied, “We’re taking WCAL this year, that’s for sure. We’re the best, that’s all there is to it.”

With an excellent record of 7-1-1, the Warriors are well on their way to another successful season. Starting pitcher Katelyn Rauchnot has already pitched a no-hitter, and has allowed zero runs in most of the games. Top hitters Jones, junior Brittney Hendrickson, and sophomore Carissa Lim help contribute to the RBIs scored every game, usually at least six or seven runs altogether. Aside from dominating almost all teams played in non-league, the girls triumphed in the Modesto Tournament as well. The team was declared tournament champions and received T-shirts and trophies, although the final game was called during the 7th inning with a score of 0-0 due to darkness. They definitely deserved this title, as they fought hard all weekend through the heat and undoubtedly would have ended up winning.

The team’s only loss came against the Pioneer Mustangs with a score of 1-0 on March 10. Observers claim that this loss was solely because the girls were distracted and not prepared for a game that day. This loss was a wake up call for the ladies, who later went on to play in the Circle of Champions tournament at Twin Creeks fields. They won their first game against Terra Nova by a score of 4-0. Their first WCAL league game came against the Lancers of St. Francis. Yet again, the girls defeated St. Francis with a score of 2-1. The Thrappas sisters, sophomore Thalia and senior Andrea saved the game and were responsible for both RBIs. Be sure to come out and cheer on the team as the girls continue in league and the Circle of Champions tournament.