Softball 24-25’ Season Preview
The Samo softball team is ready to take the field, wrapping up their previous season with a record of 16-1-12. As with most other Samo teams, this is the girls’ teams first year competing in the Ocean League, one division lower than their previous Bay League. Despite two losses at the start of the season, the team remains optimistic after their successful last season and semester of practice.
The team lost their first home game on Feb. 19 against Palos Verdes High School with a score of 3-5. Their other loss was against North Shore High School on Feb. 24, ending in a score of 5-12. However, their March 5 home game resulted in a 2-1 win against La Quinta High School. This extends their winning streak to six games.
The team has made a big comeback from their initial losses, with victories against La Quinta on Feb. 28 and Jurupa Hills on March 1, during their tournament in Palm Springs. The Vikings’ beat four other schools with scores of 2-1, 7-1, 10-5 and 8-0. These accomplishments proved their dedication to improvement.
When asked who to lookout for on the field, varsity head coach Leigh Campbell highlighted two seniors, who have been playing since freshman year.
“I am particularly excited to see pitcher/catcher duo Drew Vudmaska (’25) and Talia Yermian (’25) in their final season together. The pair has been starting for us all four years and have an amazing partnership that has been crucial in our team's success,” Campbell said.
With the mix of experienced seniors, Debbie Amezquita (’25), Bella Myers (’25), Avey Thompson (’25), Vudmaska and Yermian.
In the ’23-’24 season, the team was led by two coaches, Jenny Forester and Leigh Campbell. Forester is on maternity leave, leaving the authority to only one coach. According to seniors Isabella Myers (’25) and Ava Armendariz, having one less coach and losing some structure has been weighing on the team this season, while also positively impacting the team dynamic as a result.
“I think this season has been different. Having one coach has definitely made an impact on us, but I think we’re gonna bounce back and be a lot stronger,” Armendariz said.
The team’s next home game will take place on March 18, in their first game against Beverly Hills High School.