by Lizzy Hermosilla ‘23

Girls softball at Sherwood has built a legacy of greatness with six state titles in the past decade. The team is currently ranked 5th by the Washington Post in the DMV area, which includes both public and private schools. This season the Warriors are looking to return to the state final game after losing 3-1 to North County in the 4A state semifinals last spring. The team’s official Instagram account has dubbed this season their “Revenge Tour” as they work to earn their first title since 2019 and their seventh overall.

“Many of us have taken [losing in the semifinals] personally and this year we want a state title more than ever,” said senior first baseman Kay Sakala. “People may ask what our goals are for this season and we all say, ‘states’ but what people don’t see is how hard we work everyday preparing to be the best team and get that state title that we missed out on last year.”

The Warriors began the season beating Urbana 11-8 and Northwest 10-0 in the first week of play. On March 28, the team beat Rockville 14-1 in four innings. Sherwood utilized their three seasoned pitchers who effectively worked together to get the combined win. “Knowing that Kat and Emma have my back is really comforting. I know we will go far this season because we can trust each other to come in when needed,” said senior pitcher Alyssa Amond.

However, this season will not be without challenges, as injuries already have required changes to players’ usual positions. The team has tremendous depth and a number of players who are equally talented and can fill in at multiple spots in the lineup. The team roster is also loaded with experienced seniors.

“Our seniors will be our strength,” said Coach Ashley Barber. “They were able to experience states in 2019. Now they have to earn it. But every player on the team is an asset.” Younger players expected to make an impact include junior shortstop Kat Hanson, who also is a pitcher and closed out the final inning of the Urbana game.

The return to a normal spring season has made it easier for players to bond and set clear goals for the team. “The bond is so strong and everyone on the team is so good individually and we all work together well so I’m excited to see how far we’ll go” said Hanson.