Rialto High School season preview

Welcome to the new Knights softball team! I am Coach Admin Admin and this season is going to be one to remember. Our overall goal for this season is to put the ball in play and get runners on base. And the key to achieving this goal is communication. We can only be successful if we work as a team and support each other both on and off the field. We have a strong roster this season, with four top returning players from last year. Rylee Estrada and Natalie Pedroza are our star pitchers and also versatile fielders, while Desiree Saldate and Samantha Artaza are our highest on-base percentage offensive players. These four young athletes have worked hard to prepare for the best pitching season and have the potential to shine on the field. But we also have some new players who are sure to make an immediate impact on the team. Freshman catcher Janelle Gomez has already shown great potential with her hustle, determination, and excellent communication skills. Brooklyn Gaytan and Delilah Perez, also both freshman, are versatile utility players who have been impressing us with their ability to play multiple positions on the field. When it comes to team captains, I look for players who can keep control of the game and their teammates’ attitudes, recognize the contributions of all team members, and lessen the load for coaches. Our current captains and those vying for the role are displaying these qualities and I have no doubts they will do a great job leading our team this season. One of the biggest challenges in preparing for this season has been ensuring that all players are getting the reps and practice time they need. But I must say, these girls are hungry, dedicated and always giving their best effort. Our schedule this season includes some tough opponents like Carter High School and Colton High School, but we have been focusing on our defense and communication skills to tackle these challenges head on. As a coach, I strongly believe in mental health and the well-being of my players. I encourage them to communicate, ask questions, and use softball as an outlet to release stressors. It is important for me that they are not only successful athletes but also well-rounded individuals. We have also made some changes and improvements to our training and conditioning program, such as a summer clinic program which welcomes current, alumni and prospective players, all while raising funds for our team. Like any team, we have our strengths and weaknesses. But what sets our team apart is the dedication and positive attitude of each player.