Nearing the end of a tough season, varsity softball suffered defeat on April 27 against the Las Lomas Knights, 14-2, dropping their league record to 2-2.

Nevertheless, the coaching can still find a silver lining. “I always hate losing, but we’ve got 7 girls who’ve never played before,” said assistant coach John Fondnazio. “To pull out a team that can play competitively is an accomplishment.”

Many experienced members of the team opted not to return this year, resulting in the recruitment of students with no experience. Of the 12 members of the team, 2 of the players are upperclassmen and the remainder are underclassmen.

“4 of our players are starting at a varsity level,” said head coach Wayne Stephens. “No other team has these numbers.”

Stephens said he was satisfied with the pitching of freshman Emma Rahimi against the Knights, but he felt that her teammates struggled to back her up in the field.

Freshman Bhavana Angalakundati, however, felt that there was a different problem facing the team: the lack of motivation.

“We should’ve had more energy,” said Angalakundati. “After the game with Acalanes, we were worn out. It will probably be one of our biggest problems.”

The struggles of the team were compounded in the 6th inning when Rahimi was injured after a stray ball hit her foot. After being carried from the field by her teammates, first baseman Kelly Gagnon substituted for the pitcher.

“She had never pitched before in a game, but she did an excellent job,” said Wayne. “The girls continue to fight and believe.”

Despite the loss, Campolindo remains in the middle of the league standings with their 2 wins and 2 losses. Both Fondnazio and Wayne expressed that they were hopeful for the next upcoming games.

“Our future is bright,” added Wayne.