Ceres High’s junior-varsity softball program continued its run of success versus league opponents.
The Bulldogs went undefeated in Western Athletic Conference play for the fourth year in a row under head coach Nikole Ferrel’s guidance.
“Every group we’ve had has been very coachable,” she said. “For the most part, they’re all experienced softball players. That’s a blessing.”
Ceres High won all 12 of its conference games en route to posting a 19-1-1 overall record.
The Bulldogs outscored their opponents, 337-43.
Ceres High had a team-batting average of .504.
The Bulldogs averaged just one error on defense per game.
“We had the total package,” Ferrel said. “We had pitching, fielders and hitting.”
Two of Ceres High’s non-league games were against varsity programs. The Bulldogs beat the Riverbank Bruins 8-4 and lost 12-0 to the Central Catholic Raiders at the Rainbow Tournament.
Central Catholic compiled a 30-3 overall record, captured the CIF NorCal Division-III Championship and claimed the Valley Oak League title with a perfect 10-0 mark.
Riverbank amassed a 13-8-2 overall record, finished in second place in the Trans Valley League (8-2) and advanced to the finals of the Division-6 playoff tournament.
“In order for us to get better, we have to be challenged."
Amaia Ferrell, Amaya Castrejon, Antonia Solis, Athena Dizney, Calista Mann, Elizabeth Figueroa, Gabriela Ortiz, Illiana Enriques, Makaela Brown, Marissa Renteria, Nehemiah Valenzuela, Presley Vierra, Sovannary Carter and Tatianna Ortiz all contributed to Ceres High’s success.
“They knew what was expected of them and they definitely met the expectations. At the end of the season, every girl was better at something. They had fun.”
Figueora and Brown split time at pitcher.
Figueroa had 119 strikeouts and just seven walks in 57 innings.
Brown totaled 50 strikeouts and eight walks in 34 innings.
“They’re really good pitchers. Very minimal hits and walks. I’ve coached both of them in the past. They know what’s expected. They got the job done.”
Ceres High will strive for its fifth straight league title next spring.
“The softball program has always had talented players. The girls already know the game. We’re just adding to it.”
