The562’s coverage of Jordan Athletics is sponsored by former LBUSD superintendent Chris Steinhauser.
There is a growth mindset permeating throughout the Jordan softball program and the Panthers are embracing the quality underclassman coming in and the competition for spots in the lineup. Fifth-year coach Santiago Morales said he’s seen that make his team better.
“All We’re trying to do is stay competitive,” Morales said. “We have to keep everybody on the same page and buy into the program to believe they can do it. Last year we had a really good start against Lakewood. We did lose to them and that kind of kept the team down but if we keep that momentum up I think we’ll be okay.”
Morales and his key seniors are also trying to learn from last year’s game against Lakewood early in the season when the Panthers got off to a hot start before eventually losing to the Lancers.
“It’s keeping our head in those games and not giving up when the other team is doing better and not being intimidated,” senior captain Jennifer Cardenas Vidal said. “When the other team is cheering in the dugout we can’t let that bother us because we know that we have each other; because when you mess up we’re going to encourage you,”
Cardenas Vidal will continue to pitch while primarily playing right field, but her biggest contribution to the team is her hard work and dedication as a leader She had never played softball before high school and has been improving for three years as a contact hitter in multiple positions
“She has a lot of heart as a captain and everyone on the team respects her and she earns the respect,” Morales said. “She won’t complain about where she’s playing or where she’s hitting in the lineup. She gives 100 percent all the time.”
Cardenas Vidal will be joined in the outfield by center fielder Leanna Cruz and left fielder Lesly Padilla. The senior Cruz is a four-year contributor at the top of the lineup where she will use her speed on offense and defense.
The Jordan infield is full of players who have developed under the tutelage of Morales. Four-year starter Amber Lee Reyes is now a big target with a big bat first base after only four years of playing softball. Sophomore Marie Romero is moving from the outfield to second baseman, and sophomore Michelle Hernandez will be in the heart of the lineup and while playing third base.
Morales thinks that the growth of his program is primarily in the circle where sophomore pitchers Jaynacy Sablan and Liliana Sarmiento bring travel ball experience. They will also play shortstop when the other one is pitching. Samantha Ericson will do the catching.
“When they stop worrying about mistakes we should be alright,” Morales said. “Mistakes happen, we need to stay positive all the time. Mistakes happen, put it in the rear view mirror and move on to the next play. Then I can change the way I coach to do the extra things, like put a play on, without having to think too much.”
