By Megan Grabowski and Renee Lynch – Staff Reporters

Jonathan Law’s softball team worked hard to end its season on a high note.

The team struggled at the beginning of the season, but finished strong. They qualified for the state tournament and fell 5-2 to Foran in the first round.

Senior captains Erin Saley, Gege Romero, and Megan Smith are confident they will finish the season with success.

“We have four freshman and three sophomores in our starting lineup most days,” head coach Mrs. Blude said. “The seniors have created bonds and friendships with these girls allowing their young personalities to shine and in tune the girls played relaxed daily which led to their success.”

Romero, Saley and Smith led by example this year and created an environment which was comfortable and inviting for all the young players.

“We have dealt with injuries and illnesses throughout the season, but we have pushed through it and won the games we had to win,” said Saley. “I am proud of everyone for working hard enough to allow us to make the state tournament once again.”

One of the team’s biggest wins in the regular season was a victory over Foran, when they also ruined Foran’s undefeated streak.

“The softball team worked really hard this year, despite a tough schedule and many young starters,” Blude said. “They persevered and got the eight wins they needed for the state tournament.”

Underclassmen have contributed to this team, and are looking to be a big help over the next couple of years.

“Erin Harrigan (sophomore) was our pitcher and Skyler Bender (sophomore) was our catcher,” Blude said. “Harrigan has gotten stronger each game and Bender has been clutch.”

Some freshmen were also key players on this year’s team.

“The freshmen played a big role in our success this season,” said Saley. “They stepped up and came through in tough game situations to help us win.”

Game after game, the team continued to grow.

“Callie Jolley (freshman) started as shortstop and surpassed the school record for assists in a season,” Blude said.

Freshmen continued to show their talent throughout the season this year.

“Gina Boccamazzo (freshman) is playing third for us and she truly has been a blessing,” Blude said. “Boccamazzo and Jolley work great together and just have a fun time playing together. It is a lot of fun to watch.”

Despite the success of the underclassmen this season, the team also relied on their upperclassmen to lead everyone to victory.

“Our upperclassmen have been great,” Blude said. “Maddie Murphy and Gege have had strong bats and Erin Saley still shows she could be the best outfielder in the state. Some of the catches she makes do not happen at the college level.”

The seniors are sad the season is coming to an end, but are reflecting on all of the memories they have made over the past four years.

“I am sad that our four years are coming to an end but I am excited for post season because we have improved so much from the beginning of the season and the team has gotten really close,” said Romero.

The underclassmen are already excited for next season to start.

“I can’t wait for the upcoming season for me to improve my skills,” freshman Pam Ellison said. “My first year being on the softball team has been great and these girls are like my second family.”

Blude said that the team has a lot of potential for the future, and the girls could not be more excited.

“I really can’t wait to get back out there for my senior year,” junior Cassidy Boath said. “I love my team and we really could have a great season next year.”