By Emma Moriarty
Perfectly exemplifying Tempe Prep’s core ideas of beauty, truth, and goodness, the softball season finally ended with a recent astoundingly amazing win against Gilbert Classical Academy on April 24, with our Tempe Prep knights accomplishing a total of 25 points versus GCA’s mere 2.
This is not the only victory that stands out this season. Sophomore Sarah Simminger recalls one of the most intense games: “We played Phoenix Christian on a Friday in March after losing three games earlier that week. We really came together and won 10-9. Iit was an awesome victory and I will remember it forever.”
When looking back on what aided in the team winning this fierce game, Sarah explains, “Celeste Muniz’s pitching was on fire and Gabby Alford caught the winning out in left field with her BARE HAND! It was amazing!”
Throughout the entire season, the whole softball team has persevered and put in their best effort at every single game. There have been various comments made by coaches, parents, and students all praising TPA’s softball team for continuing to constantly do their best in practices and competitions alike. As Sarah points out, the reason the team won the close match against Phoenix Christian was because they are able to come together and, united, reach a goal.
Sarah adds, “Even though we did not have the best season record, we really improved as a team. I personally improved on by batting and catching grounders and throwing them to help the team move forward in position. We all improved our overall skills by working together as a team, we never discouraged each other and always pushed each other positively to get better at what we do and always supported each other. That’s what teams are for. I can’t wait to get even better next year!”
This is exactly what the TPA values try to get students to focus on: the journey rather than the destination, and improvement rather than winning. Through truth, beauty, and goodness, the softball team has improved upon themselves and as a team. They are all the real MVPs.