Another season has come and gone. Where did the time go? It seems (to me) to go by faster every year.
Although this season was not without its challenges, I must say that I did enjoy coaching you all this season; I miss it when it's over.
As for the team, our record and playoff result does not look good on paper. However, I will argue with anyone that this was a very good team, an excellent group of girls, just as good as any other team in the league (including the champions). Circumstances beyond our control conspired against us.
I hope, despite our won/loss record, that you all enjoyed playing softball this season. After all, as Mr. B. stated pre-season, we like to win, yes, but our main goal is to have fun!
To our 16 (and up) year olds, Jenny Rose, Lisa, and Amanda, this was your last year. I hope you enjoyed your many years playing in ARA; you all were excellent players (and people) and will be missed.
Final Kudos to:
- Jenny Rose Bridgens, had a great final season and had great spirit (probably her cheerleading background!).
- Lisa Clark, an excellent player and pitcher, was a steadying influence on the team whenever she played.
- Amanda Corropolese, unfortunately the schedule conspired against her this year, but was an excellent player throughout her years in ARA (Mr. B. and I coached her when she was 13).
- Sammi Berlet, joined us mid-season but fit right in with the team; her skill improved with every game.
- Nicole Bridgens, this should have been her first year in league (but it was her second), showed dramatic improved hitting (she had a homerun this season), showed versatility by playing various positions to help out the team.
- Amy Caglia, very quiet, has great talent in phases of the game, hit great all season and has a great arm.
- Carolyn Meier, our catcher, improved a lot at that position and had our other homerun this year.
- Melissa Ricciutti, very quietly went about being one of our best hitters this season. She should be very proud of how much she has improved over the years.
- Sammy Seeberger, gave great effort all season long and was a great teammate.
- Caroline Stanley, one of pitchers, was called on to pitch a lot and did so without complaint; she also was one of the best hitters.
- Megan Stauffer, hit great all season long and made many incredible defensive gems playing first base.
- Julia Tasca, always gave 100% in every game and inspired her teammates to do likewise.
- Maggie Thomas, (have to be careful here :) ), did well pitching in her first season doing so and hit better than the statistics would indicate.
Take care, ladies -- and thanks for playing! I hope I see you all playing in ARA next season. Mr. B. and I will be looking for you.
Have a great summer and the best of luck to you in school, sports, and life. May God bless you all.
Mr. T.
