After a three game winning streak, the softball team is eager to have a successful season.
New coaches and players are contributing to a positive spirit on the field. Kendall Roles, left field and first baseman, said.
“It’s a big difference from last year. The women are so dedicated, ” Eliana Gomez,shortstop, said.
Elaine Martinez, coach, has joined El Camino this year from Pasadena City College. The new coach may prove to be a huge help for the Warriors this season, Vivian Santacruz, first baseman and pitcher, said.
“Our coaches dedicate so much time to us, the team, and the program” Santacruz said.
The students said that the coach may do more than just improve their game.
“They care a lot more,” Yasmin Antonio, outfielder, said. The coaches encourage their students to excel in school with the addition of frequent study checks and mandatory study hall sessions. They are also required to do weight training and conditioning this year, Antonio said.
The team also feels a sense of chemistry that they did not have in past years, which should strengthen the team overall.
“We really stick together. We mesh well as a team. That was our big problem last year,” Roles said.
“I think last year the team really struggled, so I wanted them to have some success this year. And so far we’ve been doing it, we’ve had some really big wins.” Elaine Martinez, coach, said.
The team had three straight wins againgst Long Beach, 4-3, East LA, 9-7, and Compton, 20-4, before losing to LA Harbor on Tuesday, 6-0.
“The goal would be just to be a competitive, well-respected program. And I think right now we are, we’re doing it,” Martinez said.
All of the changes the new coaching staff has brought to the team are designed to prepare students for the next level.
“Our goal is to make sure they have no surprises. If they do get a scholarship and are able to play at the next level, we want them to feel like it’s an easy transition. They’re getting worked the way they would if they were at a four-year program,” Martinez said.
With new, breakout players like Alia Williams, center and catcher, Jacklyn Peyrefitte, third baseman and pitcher, and Faafili Taamilo, starting catcher, and some returning players, like Roles, Marissa Merced, starting pitcher, there should be a lot to look forward to this season, Martinez said.
Although the players work hard, they do have a lot of fun.
“They’re probably one of the best groups I’ve ever had to coach. And I’m very lucky because usually your first year at a program is very difficult. They’ve made it very easy for me. They make me want to be here everyday. And even on the bad days, it’s still a good day,” Martinez said.
