The varsity softball team is having a great season. They’re undefeated district champs, and everyone’s talking about their combo of talent and teamwork. The Lobos have crushed teams like Bridgeland, Cy Woods, Waller, and Cy Lakes, leaving a trail of wins. So, what’s their secret?
Sophomore Mia Martinez, who plays both shortstop and third base, thinks it’s all about the grind.
“We’ve just been working hard every day,” Mia said. “We push each other to be better, and I think that’s why we’ve been so successful.”
Her teammate and sister, sophomore Kassidy Martinez, who is a utility player (a player who can play multiple defensive positions on the field), agrees.
“Our chemistry is definitely a part of it,” Kassidy said. “We’re all close, and we trust each other on the field. That makes a huge difference.”
Even with the dominant record, it hasn’t been smooth sailing.
“Some games have been super close,” Mia said. “But we always find a way to pull through.”
Senior pitcher Karli Challburg talked about the importance of coach’s advice.
“Coach always tells us to stay focused and play our game,” Challburg said. “She reminds us that we can beat anyone if we play our best.”
Looking ahead to the playoffs, the team knows they need to keep improving.
“We need to be even more consistent with our baserunning,” Kassidy said. “And sharpen up some things on defense.”
Mia agreed.
“We can always get better at communicating on the field,” Mia said.
So, how do the Lobos prepare for battle?
“We always listen to music on the bus before games,” Challburg said. “It helps us get pumped up.”
Practices are mostly business with a little bit of fun.
“We usually start with stretching and warm-ups, then we’ll work on hitting, fielding, and baserunning drills,” Mia said. “We try to make everything game-like so we’re ready for anything.”
When asked about standout players, Kassidy didn’t hesitate to name one player.
“Karli has been amazing on the mound,” Kassidy said. “She’s been so consistent and really helps our team out.”
Like any self-respecting softball team, the Lobos have their superstitions.
¨We always listen to Brain Stew by Green Day before games,¨ Mia said.
Before the first pitch, the team has a mix of focus and fun.
“We try to stay loose and keep the energy high,” Challburg said. “But once we step on the field, it’s all business.”
As for their favorite moment of the season so far?
“Beating Cy Woods was pretty awesome,” Kassidy said. “They’re a really good team, so it felt great to get the win.”
With their undefeated record and strong team bond, the Lobos have made it two rounds deep into the playoffs so far beating Tomball Memorial in the Bi-District round. The team is currently playing New Caney in the Area playoffs and are tied one to one. The last game will be May 3rd at 1pm at home.