The softball diamond should be competitive for three local scholastic teams this spring.
At La Jolla High, head coach Ken Davis and the Lady Vikings were 8-14 last spring.
Key returnees this season include pitcher Jenny Russekk, outfielder Kristina Mendez, outfielder Darcie Elliot, catcher/outfielder Lauren Steinmetz and second baseman Lisa Fronek. Top newcomers include Anna Parma, Ana Akiyama and Allison Rubens; and possible contributors Cameron Mamer, Rachel Skinner and Natalia Cravens.
“We’re a young team, but they will compete,” Davis commented.
At The Bishop’s School, the Lady Knights under head coach Thomas Abeyta were 6-14 (1-5 Coastal League) last season.
Top players this spring look to include pitcher Natalie Camarda and catcher/outfielder Michelle Brunker. Other players to watch include Gabby Salerno, Kristen Casey (pitcher/first baseman), Laura Aguilar (infielder), AJ Kiyoizumi (infielder/outfielder) and Briana Martinez (catcher).
“We will be young, but I think with some of the young talent this year, we will improve defensively and offensively,” said Abeyta, who looks for Francis Parker and Horizon to be tough foes in the Coastal League.
At La Jolla Country Day School, the Lady Torreys went 9-12 a season ago for head coach Jay Berenter.
This year’s squad is led by team captain Samantha Berenter, who is a key player both offensively and defensively. Also look to second baseman Ariel Abbott and pitcher Brittany Dawson.
“We hope to keep close to (Francis) Parker and Horizon who both have outstanding pitchers returning this year,” Jay Berenter said.