San Jacinto College wrapped up a busy weekend of softball Oct. 11 when the Coyotes hosted the Orange Crush softball team from Orange, Texas. San Jac thwarted the Crush with a 13-11 win.

The Orange Crush started strong in the first inning, loading the bases and scoring first. The Coyotes cheered each other on as they began stringing base hits together scoring 13 runs for the day. The Crush threatened a victory in the fifth with a five-run inning but fell short with a total of 11 runs.

During their off season, softball teams participate in the Fall Ball Series. These matches allow the coaches to assess many levels of talent including their own players and potential recruits. Meanwhile, Orange Crush is a gold-level traveling 18-and-under club team. Their recent successes include an invitation to compete in a national tournament in Austin.

Playing a club team like Orange Crush allowed San Jac to practice new strategies, but Head Softball Coach Kelly Saenz stressed, “… the overall goal is to win no matter the level of competition.”

Crush coach John Harrell explained playing college-level softball is a positive experience his team appreciates. He noted the speed is faster and the players “pay for their mistakes” when playing at that caliber.

However, both coaches acknowledged an opportunity for possible recruitment at the Fall Ball Series. Harrell said he knows his players will look for scholarships soon, and the matchups expose them to possible offers. In turn, Saenz said she can observe first-hand any talented players she may want to bring to San Jac.

Furthermore, Saenz admits playing a younger team gives the Coyotes the opportunity to practice some of their riskier plays like bunts and stealing bases. Some of these plays are not usually used against tougher competition, but they worked against the Crush.

In the meantime, Saenz said she feels the outlook for their spring season is good even though it is early to tell; adding, if the team can come together, “the sky is the limit.”