Southwestern Softball Exceeds Expectations
The Southwestern softball team completed its 2023 campaign with a 15-23 record. While the record isn't dazzling, what went into accomplishing that record can only be described as incredible. A new coaching staff was brought in in August after Coach Yasmin Mossadeghi resigned to take a position at Harvard University. Coach Michael Gross and Assistant Coach Katrina Simmons worked hard to bring in a quality recruiting class and worked tirelessly to bring this group together. After a successful fall season, several players left the program to pursue other interests. At the beginning of the Spring season, there were 14 players on the roster and after another player had to leave the program due to a family issue, and another was injured, many games the team was left with 11 or 12 players.
But that didn't daunt these resilient players. The ladies battled through adversity and ended up more than doubling the previous years win total and demonstrated a grit and determination that made the coaching staff, and the school proud. The team ended up third in the Pacific Coast Conference and was awarded 6 all league selections. Pitcher Madison Mendez (Santana) and Catcher Kassidy Harper (Santana) were both selected as First Team all selections while Haley Oceguerra (Santana), Dani Sandez (Otay Ranch) and Elyssa Garcia (Clairemont) were 2nd team selections. Shortstop Jordyn Beatty was named Honorable Mention for the final award.
The team was led at the plate by Kassidy Harper (.374), Madison Mendez (.358) and Elyssa Garcia (.358). Dani Sandez and Jordan Beatty tied for the lead in stolen bases. Defensively, third baseman Bella Hurtado (Olympian), right fielder Danika Munoz (Helix), and Left fielder Madi Villaescusa (Steele Canyon) led the way. In the circle, Madison Mendez was stellar with a 14-15 record and ERA around 4.00. During league season Mendez pitched an astounding 195 innings with only 57 walks allowed and threw 24 complete games. Other key contributors included Nayeli Martinez (Hilltop), Devyn Krystek (Christian) and Angie Allen (Montgomery).
Coach Gross and Coach Simmons have brought in a terrific class for 2024 and we are looking forward to some field improvements and a great summer and fall with the new players and the key returning players.