PASADENA, Texas – The Ravens Softball team is gearing up for another exciting season after a solid 2023 performance. With a season record of 42-19, securing second place in the Region XIV south conference and clinching third at the regional tournament, the team is ready to soar to new heights.
The 2023 season saw outstanding individual achievements, with both the Conference and Regional Pitcher and Player of the Year titles claimed by members of the Ravens squad. In addition, the team boasted an impressive roster with eight players named to the All-Conference team and five to the All-Region team. The honors didn't stop there, as one player received recognition as an NFCA All-American, and another as an NJCAA All-American.
Head Coach Kelly Saenz shared her hopes and expectations for the upcoming 2024 season, stating, "Our goal is nothing short of competing for both the conference and regional championships. We've set the bar high, and we're determined to reach it."
Saenz emphasized the team's strategy for success, highlighting unity and continuous improvement. "We believe our path to success lies in playing as a cohesive unit, with every player fully invested in our collective goals. Learning from our mistakes and striving to improve every time we step onto the field will be key."
When asked about the team's strengths for the upcoming season, Saenz pointed to hitting and defensive capabilities as key assets. "Our players have been honing their skills, and we're confident in our ability to excel in both offensive and defensive aspects of the game."
Among the returners to watch is Arriana Wright, recognized as an all-conference and all-region pitcher of the year and player of the year in 2023, as well as an NFCA and NJCAA All-American, who brings invaluable experience and leadership to the team. Chloe Foster, a leader in the outfield, first team All-South Conference and second team All-Region XIV, has demonstrated a strong start to the season and is expected to bring a strong leadership presence to the outfield. And Kristina Nash is expected to take on an increased workload in the pitching rotation.
Looking ahead to the competition, Saenz identified Blinn and Galveston Colleges as formidable opponents in the South Conference. "Both Blinn and Galveston have consistently proven to be strong competitors, making them worthy adversaries. We anticipate tough matchups against these teams throughout the season."
With determination, skill, and a clear focus on their goals, the Ravens Softball team is poised for an exciting and successful 2024 season.
About San Jacinto College
Surrounded by monuments of history, evolving industries, maritime enterprises of today, and the space age of tomorrow, San Jacinto College has served the people of East Harris County, Texas, since 1961. The College is one of the top 10 community colleges in the nation as designated by the Aspen Institute and was named an Achieving the Dream Leader College of Distinction in 2020. The College is a Hispanic-Serving Institution that spans five campuses, serving approximately 41,000 credit and non-credit students annually. It offers more than 200 degrees and certificates across eight major areas of study that put students on a path to transfer to four-year institutions or enter the workforce. The College is fiscally sound, holding bond ratings of AA and Aa2 by Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s.
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