Softball season one to remember

    A fun team atmosphere made this season one to remember for the Chase County softball team.
    Softball season always goes fast, but CCS Head Coach Denise Smith said this season went extra fast, in part because it was a fun group of players to work with.
    “The enjoyment of the season made it go faster,” she said, pointing out the goofiness and silliness of the group.
    Smith also pointed out that all the players were very good at chipping in to help out or haul equipment.
    Visiting Carhenge on the way back from Chadron and stopping for pictures at the movie Cars’ Tow Mater look alike pickup at Gering were among fun team activities.
    Smith complimented each of her seniors.
    Alejandra Castillo came off the bench to play in the infield. In her third year on the team, Smith said Castillo was willing to try anything and play anywhere.
    Kayla Chavira switched to first base this year. Chavira battled some health issues as she learned and improved at her position, Smith said.
    Krista Meeske battled injuries, but was one of Smith’s most vocal leaders on the field.
    Smith said Annika McDaniel had the best situational understanding of any of the Longhorns and was good at putting the ball in play.
    Jesusita Ruiz was Chase County’s most aggressive base runner through much of her career and staked claim to center field this year, according to Smith.
    Jaiden Hill handled pitching duties throughout the year. As good as she was on the mound in limiting walks, Smith also said Hill’s consistent fielding was very good.
    Looking back, Smith said the Longhorns were indecisive at times this season and she wished they would have had less fear about making mistakes.
    But it was also a group that stuck together, and didn’t get down or let mistakes carry over to the next game.
    Smith said she liked the looks of the schedule going into the season and knew there would be many opportunities for CCS to be competitive.
    The Longhorns finished 6-19, showing improvement throughout the season and battling through some tough games.
Statistical leaders
    Ruiz tied the school record with four triples on the season. She also led CCS in batting average, .338; slugging percentage, .541; doubles, 7; and singles, 14, while being second in RBIs with 17.
    Hill was team leader out on base percentage, .611, and walks, 22. Hill was second with a .304 batting average and .435 slugging percentage. Defensively, she finished with 122 strikeouts and a .940 fielding percentage.
    McDaniel had a team high, 18 RBIs.
    Chavira led CCS with most runs scored, 19, and tied with junior Brooke Schilke after being hit by five pitches. Chavira was second on base percentage at .582.
    Meeske was second with 18 runs scored.
    Sophomore Jasmine Johnson was second on the team with 17 walks.