2010 Preview
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By Dave Loveton, sports information
Thursday, Jan. 28, 2010
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Newcomers dominate roster
Neither rain nor the addition of 13 new players has put a damper on the outlook of SBCC softball coach Paula Congleton.
"After two weeks of training, one of which was indoors due to eight inches of rain, the coaches and players have a sense of excitement," said Congleton, who's starting her 12th season. "The roster is loaded with talented newcomers looking to make an immediate impact, while the sophomores will provide stability and leadership."
The Vaqueros open on Saturday with a 1 p.m. doubleheader against Foothill College. On Feb. 5, they'll play two top-ranked teams in the same day -- Mt. San Antonio and Fulleron -- at Mt. SAC's field in Walnut.
Three players -- Amanda Sharp, Lauren Takayesu and Kellee Venturi -- return from last year's squad that went 13-25 overall and 9-15 in the WSC Gold Division.
"We have a lot of players who can play multiple positions," noted Congleton, who has nine players from Santa Barbara County. "The coaching staff has tried to instill the idea of 'The Circle of Success.' This year we have an opportunity to do many great things as individuals and as a team."
The 'Circle of Success' features mantras like: Expect to win; Respect the game; Don't make excuses and Believe you can achieve greatness.
Here's a look at the Vaqueros by position with comments from Congleton:
Pitchers -- "They're all freshmen but they're loaded with talent. Kailey Snyder, Jeana Carrillo, Sara Gazzaniga and Liliana Caughman have all gotten stronger and have worked hard to have better command of their pitches."
Catchers -- Janelle Wong, a former Dos Pueblos High star, joins the squad after a fracture in her right foot forced her to redshirt this basketball season. "Janelle brings a prowess behind the plate as she has experience catching her very talented sister, Kimmy Wong. Lindsie Holloway has been working hard all fall developing her blocking skills and strengthening her arm. Both players are solid hitters"
Infield – Sharp and Venturi will share time at first base, Jasmyne Holmes and Paty Martinez are slated for second and Lisa Zeitlin and Laura Cannon will patrol shortstop and third base. "Jasmyne is coming off an injured right shoulder and is getting strong and more confident each day. Paty has worked hard developing her lateral range and quickness. Lisa packs quickness and determination."
Outfield – "The outfield will be patrolled by speed and quickness. Lauren Takayesu is the lone sophomore in the grass. However, she has plenty of eager rookies covering lots of territory. Nicole Adair, Katie McEwan, Joan Cannon and Elicity Fabing (a standout from the women's soccer team) present many options as all can slap and drag bunt as well as hit for power."
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