After a devastating 2025 season, the varsity Lancers have been on a winning streak this season so far going undefeated through all nine games. Practices have been intense and the ladies have been working hard to achieve their victory.
“The season is great so far,” senior Madilyn Mazzulla said. “I would describe the team season as great, because we are on a really good winning streak, and all the new girls get along so well with the returners, so it’s going good.”
Last season the Lancers faced a lot of adversativity such as injuries and playing restrictions. This season, changes have been made on and off the field.
“I think the girls have changed the most from last season,” Mazzulla said. “Everyone is closer together, willing to work together, and be loud, and just have team spirit.”
As last season had its ups and downs, the athletes learned valuable lessons that have been carried on to this season. Thus, shaping a stronger, more determined team ready to compete at a higher level
“[We learned to] not be afraid of any team, because you never know what could happen,” junior Autumn Muro said. “You never know the outcome of a game.”
Returning players have played a key role in the comradery of the team. They work to build trust and set a positive tone for both new and veteran athletes.
“We’re there to give the younger players and the underclassmen advice so that they don’t make the same mistakes that they did when they were their age,” senior Gabby Nevarez said.
One moment in particular showed the girls that they could go far this year. It serves as a driving motivator in practice that keeps them working.
“The most memorable game for me this year has been when we played Ramona and the Cougar Classic and beat them 17 to 0,” Mazzulla said.
Leadership is key for success in any sport, in softball leaders on the field are responsible for communicating and maintaining a high skill level. The returning upperclassmen have taken on the responsibility of being leaders.
“Just staying positive,” junior Sofia Tillis said, “and showing through action and not words.”
Not only have the girls changed their mindset, the coaching staff has taken a different approach to this season.
“We came with a different practice, different practice plans, and a more aggressive approach as a coaching staff,” varsity assistant coach Kamali’i (I’I) Peneku said. “[Aas well as] putting our best players out there to help us win games.”
Even though softball is a spring sport, all athletes had the opportunity to come and workout before the season. In the preseason workouts, the girls got to develop their fundamental skills, it shows as a prequel to the season.
“I think, especially preseason, we had probably the biggest turnouts that we’ve had in a while,” varsity head coach Jared Miller said. “Working hard as we led up to the season, and then getting into the season, having the energy and effort put in and put forth in practice to get to those games and be ready and prepared for them.”
The most agreeable factor in the success of the team, from both the athletes and coaches is the leadership. Leadership sets the standard for effort, accountability, and unity on and off the field.
“The girls that maybe weren’t as vocal last year are definitely stepping up in a big way,” varsity pitching coach Monica Villarreal said. “And it doesn’t always have to be the seniors or the juniors, and it’s just everyone kind of holding everybody accountable, which is really showing, it’s really helping our team.”
The season has been filled with many memorable moments thus far. From team lunches and bus rides to big wins under the lights, there is more success to come this season.
“When we got that Mater Dei dub, I just knew,” junior Chloe Hernandez said. “Wwe’re gonna win CIF this year. We’re going to win state.”
