Ravens Softball reflects on season of resilience and growth

The San Jacinto College Ravens softball team secured a third-place conference finish and demonstrated remarkable perseverance throughout their campaign, ending their season with an overall record of 26-31.

"We faced some challenges this season, particularly with injuries, which impacted our overall performance," said Kelly Saenz, Ravens softball head coach. "When it counted most, the team came together, stayed focused, and secured the key wins needed to qualify for the regional tournament."

Lineup flexibility became a necessity as the team navigated player injuries throughout the season, with Saenz highlighting collective growth as a strength.

"I'm incredibly proud of the entire team for overcoming numerous obstacles throughout the season," she said. "Our sophomores showed leadership in a variety of ways, and our freshmen rose to the occasion, contributing to all areas."

The season featured a significant personal achievement for Saenz, who reached her 800th career victory on April 18 with a win over Lamar State College-Port Arthur.

In postseason play, the Ravens' tournament run ultimately came to an end, but not without a fight.

"The team battled until the very end, trusting in themselves and one another. They showed heart, resilience, and went down swinging with everything they had," said Saenz. "While the season may not have gone exactly as we hoped, it provided valuable lessons in determination and many other qualities that we all took to heart."

The team's performance was recognized with several players earning conference and regional honors.

Conference and Regional Honors

First team all-conference

• Kamryn Deleon (Alvin HS/ Alvin)
• Iliana Melendez (Clear Lake HS/ Seabrook)
• Madelyn Perez (London HS/ Corpus Christi)
• Bree Winkelman (Needville HS/ Needville)

Second team all-conference

• Madison Carr (Texas City HS/ Texas City)
• Angelina Morales (Deer Park HS/ Pasadena)
• Vanessa Valdez (Atascocita HS/ Humble)

First team all-region

• Kamryn DeLeon
• Iliana Melendez
• Madelyn Perez

Second team all-region

• Bree Winkelman