Softball Closes With Optimism

Even after two losses at the state softball tournament last week, the Lady Farmers don’t exactly feel like underdogs.

“The girls really played well and I’m really proud of them,” said head coach Coco Augustiro. “Despite losing at state we still feel like winners.”

The team rallied hard at the Hawaii High School Athletic Association softball tournament on Oahu, but could not overcome a tough first inning against the Konawaena Wildcats last Thursday in the fifth place semifinals.

With cleats sinking in mud and pouring rain splashing the field, the Lady Farmers lost against the Wildcats 5-2 in the Division II games at Central Oahu Regional Park. The muddy conditions made it hard for the team to pitch and run, but in spite of bad weather, Molokai High School (MHS) freshman centerfielder and pitcher Brooke Keliihoomalu held her own for much of the game. She played a strong defense and landed a base hit to score a home run in the first inning.

On Wednesday, the Lady Farmers lost to St. Francis Saints 13-2 in the quarterfinals with head hitter sophomore catcher Kapua Lee scoring two base hits. Lee dove in hard to catch two short hits that flew right over third base, preventing runs on the field. Lee was the first one to score with a double base hit on the field at the start of the game.

Win or lose, Augustiro said the Lady Farmers came back harder than last year at the State Tournament and this season. They came out with landslide victories to take the Maui Interscholastic League Championship two weeks ago on their home diamond at Duke Maliu Regional Park.

“Looking back on the season as a whole, we have come a long way considering our first game was a blow out,” Augustiro said. “The girls came through this year and we’re looking forward to a great season and more wins next year.”

The fairly young team, with one graduating senior this year, outfielder Caylee Ledesma, is looking forward strengthening their relationships as teammates and stronger communication on the field next year, Augustiro said. She said she looks forward to a good swing next season and sends a warm mahalo to all supporters.

“I’d like to thank the coaching staff because without them we wouldn’t be where we are now,” Augustiro said. “Thanks to the girls who played hard all season long and all our supporters out there.”