The Selma High’s softball team are in the midst of their season with a current record of 7-7. To prepare for the season the team incorporated a balance of weight training with technical drills. Motivated by the competition ahead, training began in the summer and continued through the fall.
“We go into every season with the goal of coming together as a team and winning a League championship and section championship,” explained Coach Tapia.
The team prioritizes working as one and utilizes each player’s individual talent in order to be successful on the field. By approaching every game as a new opportunity, it allows the team to showcase the work they’ve put in behind the scenes.
“There’s nothing better than watching a group come together, work hard, and then get to see the results be successful,” expressed Coach Tapia.
Softball comes with challenging wins and losses, but with the team supporting one another it has created both a positive environment and a motivated mindset within the team.
“I would say the team stays motivated for each other. We all need to have each other’s backs and pick each other up throughout the ups and downs,” stated senior Khamara Dement.
By working as a unit the softball team have won their most recent games against Clovis North with a score of 4-1, as well as against Madera in a close game of 10-9.
Softball is a team sport where every position has an important role to play. Pitching is a position that requires one to stay calm under pressure.
“Pitching is a mentally tough position that has taught me to be strong minded. Every game is a challenge due to different talents and umpires, so every game is a challenge that I overcome,” explained senior Stacy Garcia.
Infield positions have the responsibility of preventing the offensive team from scoring. It requires the athletes to stay alert and prepared to take charge when needed.
“I like how I am considered the ‘leader’ of the infield. Sometimes leading the defense can be challenging but I feel like it’s made me a better player and teammate overall,” shared Dement.
Through alert and quick reactions, outfield positions have the job to back up their infield teammates.
“What I like about my position is being able to be the last line of defense and being able to back up our infielders. There are also times where we make some game saving catches that are just a part of the job,” expressed sophomore Jayleen Sisavanh.
Going up to bat is a crucial part of the game. The team’s skillful batting technique can be seen through a series of hits, homeruns, and stolen bases.
“I recently reached 100 hits throughout my career this past week, which is a huge accomplishment when it comes to this game of failure” shared Dement.
Dement’s insight with her experience in hitting showcases that softball is not about instant success, but consistent work to overcome challenges. This mindset can be seen within the team and has guided them to a number of victories.
For some of the Selma High players graduating this year, their softball journey will continue on. Khamara Dement is one of the Selma High athletes that will continue their passion for softball.
“In a few months I will be attending Texas A&M University. I am excited to get out of my comfort zone and play with and against the best softball players in the country,” shares Dement.
From the skills and lessons the team have learned to the friendships they’ve created, softball is an experience that has created a lasting impact on the team.
“Something I’d like to add is that my experience playing softball with these girls, some even since I was 5 has been a blessing and I will cherish it forever,” expressed Garcia.
Beyond competing on the field and the challenging practices, the team have learned lessons, created memories, and have built a lasting passion.
