Photo credit: Leani Al-Midani

Andrea Fuentes(’28) practices her swings on the backfield. The team is preparing for their upcoming game, where their skills will be put to the test.

The varsity softball team had their first practice on Jan. 30 in preparation for their first game against Environmental Charter High School on Feb. 19, where the team won 18-8. Since then, the team has played 5 other matches, with a season record of 4-1. Sophomore Ari Borstein said the varsity softball team is developing bonds with one another that will help them stay united and feel supported throughout the season.

Established in 2016, Archer’s softball team consists of beginners to advanced athletes. The team is coached by Tony Flores and Assistant Coach Maya Flores. Borstein said she values communication and building relationships within the team to strengthen their chances of success. 

“Like all sports, there has to be some level of relationships and communication between teammates,” Borstein said. “Especially to create bonds which would help our chances at winning”.

The upper school softball program has a “no-cuts” policy, meaning anyone interested in learning the sport is guaranteed a spot on the team. With this policy, Flores encourages the players on the team to help each other grow on top of his coaching. He believes a fun environment can be created by being a leader or a mentor to the athletes would help the team flourish and succeed as a team.

“Everything starts with leadership. [The softball team] reflects your leadership,” Flores said. “We motivate them by setting a positive environment and working hard while having fun.”

With 18 players on the team, Tony Flores said creating a supported and connected environment. He believes a strong team culture helps both individual growth and overall success. By establishing trust within the team, he encourages the players to push their limits while still having fun by creating a space where they can develop both as athletes and as teammates.

“I let the girls know…this is [the players’] safe space. So when you’re stressed out, come, work hard, have fun,” Flores said. “This is a place where they can be themselves, let go of stress, and focus on improving while enjoying the game.” 

Flores was given a speaker as a gift for his fourth year coaching which is used to play music during practices. This speaker is used as a way to motivate the athletes as well as an attempt to have more fun, concentrate and be fully present during their practice. Flores also encourages the aspect of having fun and how that can bring players close together while respecting each other and the game.

“I preach family, hard work, and just respect for the game,” Flores said. “We play it the right way… no attitudes, just having fun.”

During the games, softball players on offense wait in the dugout for their turn to hit the bat. Teammates cheer on their peers while waiting for their turn.

“I feel like [softball] is more than just an average sport, it’s a team where every cheer from the dugout, no matter your grade or role, brings us closer together,” Schwarz said. “It’s the little moments, the encouragement, and the shared passion that will drive us through the season.”