The softball team’s annual Home Run Derby took place Saturday, Jan. 27. The Lady Warriors welcomed parents, students, and young children to step out on the field and hit as many home runs as possible.

Both JV and varsity teams were there to manage the derby. Their duties ranged from shagging balls, to cleaning up, to talking with guests.

“All of our players were running the derby,” assistant coach Brissa Ochoa said. “Usually we have them hit, so it was cool to see them step up and run the whole thing.”

Team members spent most of their time picking up balls hit by contestants.

“Even though we were mainly standing in the outfield, it was fun to see the kids bat,” JV player Abby Holden ‘19 said.

Attendees had high recommendations for the Rudy’s barbecue plates being sold, which featured brisket, pulled pork, corn, and mac and cheese.

“It’s sublime. I love it. The pulled pork is 10 out of 10,” Holden said. “I would eat it again. Everybody should come next year.”

A large majority of the contestants were baseball players and the team’s family members.

“We had a lot of parent support,” Coach Ochoa said. “I enjoyed talking to other people. Even though I don’t know everybody, it was really friendly and social and fun.”

According to head coach Tiffany Gates, the derby won’t be enough to efficiently cover this season’s expenses.

“Each year is different,” Ms. Gates said, “but it helps. All of it went to purchasing the bat bags for both teams.”

Despite the derby being over, people can still contribute to the softball program through donations or by becoming sponsors.

“The fundraiser money we get is to help fix up our field or get new equipment or just in general stuff, like, our uniforms and such,” Holden said.

While this year’s derby had a smaller crowd than previous years, Coach Gates has high hopes for the next derby and considers this year’s to be a success overall.

“The Home Run Derby and lunch plate sale is always filled with fun, good music and people from our community,” Coach Gates said.

With the new season coming close, Coach Gates expressed great support for the team and looks forward to them coming out to the first JV and varsity scrimmage on Wednesday, Feb. 1 against Georgetown High School.

“I am super pumped about our JV and varsity teams this year,” Coach Gates said. “I feel like they are both very focused and want to win.”