Feature Photo By: Izzy Honey – Sophomore Tiffany Smith prepares to swing in a game against East High School. She plans on working on her batting this offseason to prepare for next year.

The softball team has slid into home base as its season has come to an end. Their final record for the year is 8-11, ruling out all chances for the playoffs.  Although the Raiders will not be making the playoffs this year, coach Paul Reil believes that the players have worked hard to patch up their weaknesses.

“We have shown steady improvement throughout the season. We had a lot to learn at the start of the season and have made huge strides all season,” stated Coach Reil.

In his opinion, junior Jordan Clanton has made the most improvements throughout the season. Starting next season, she will be the new captain of the team with senior Mireya Marquez heading off to college.  

According to Coach Reil, “Her hard work and dedication to the team has made her one of the better players in the league right now.”

Sophomore Tiffany Smith also had great things to say about her future captain.

“Jordan is a very good leader and is always there for everyone on the team,” said Smith. “I feel really good about her being the captain next season.”

When Clanton was asked about taking over the role as captain next year, she stated, “I really look forward to running the team. It is really difficult because some games we don’t do as well, but I think I’m ready for the challenge.”

During their offseason, the team does not plan on sitting idly by until their next go at the playoffs in 2018.

According to coach Reil, the team “will continue to work through the offseason with winter hitting and summer ball. The more experience our younger players can get, the better off we will be in the future.”

Despite losing their last game of the season against Thornton 9-13, the raiders will enter the offseason with their heads high, ready to prepare for next season. To check out their scores for the year, click here.