By Carla Vecchione, President, UC Del Sol
Every hero’s tale has an underdog – a contender that rises to the challenge, overcomes obstacles, and pulls out the victory against all odds. Such is the story of UC Del Sol Girls Fastpitch Softball, the smallest of the eight leagues in its southern San Diego district, whose 12 and Under All Star team clinched first place in the State Qualifier, proving that team spirit and determination are more formidable than strength and numbers.
After losing one game in the double elimination tournament, held over 4th of July weekend at Hickman Sports Complex in Clairemont, the 12U team “Adrenaline” faced a daunting task: To earn the title of District Champions, the girls would have to play and win four games in one day – in 90 degree heat – and beat the undefeated Fallbrook All Star team not once but twice in a row.
The day that started with 7am warm-ups ended at nearly 7pm in a climatic international tie-breaker with Fallbrook, in which UC Del Sol ultimately triumphed. “Playing through that level of exhaustion is not just a matter of skill,” said head coach Rene Benz. “It’s about passion, camaraderie, and most of all, heart.” Indeed, several players including All Star Hannah Hinchman of University City, lost their voices that day after twelve solid hours of cheering for their teammates.
When asked to comment on the secret to the team’s success, league President Carla Vecchione responded, “We may be a small league, but we’re comprised of a very dedicated group of parents and coaches, all of whom put the girls first. Most of these girls [on the winning team] have been playing together since they were in first or second grade. The friendships strengthened over the years carry over on to the field. Success comes easier when you’re having fun.”
This past weekend, team “Adrenaline” competed in the State Championships in Lancaster, CA, placing 5th out of 24 teams and earning a spot in the Southern United States Regional Championships to be held August 5-7 in Escondido.
The UC Del Sol Fall Ball season begins in August; the regular season in February. Both provide an excellent environment for girls 5-14 to learn and improve on the game of softball, develop essential life skills, and forge lasting friendships. For registration information, please contact Aly Stein, at 858-568-2455, or email aly.ucdelsol@gmail.com. Please check out our website at www.ucdelsol.clubspaces.com for more info.
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