There is so much working against the Compton softball program this season. They don’t have a home field to practice on because the campus is still under construction, and last month they had their first practice since last year.
All of those extenuating circumstances have changed the approach and expectations for coach DeShawn Kelly and her players.
“This season I expect every Compton softball team member to communicate on the field, enjoy the game, display character and strength and to do their best,” Kelly said.
“A successful season for us is as long as the girls get out there and have fun and we really play our hardest,” Compton senior Nailah Porter (pictured) said. “We’ve been taking our time with a few new ladies who have to get into the groove of everything and it’s just been going well.”
Porter said she’s worked hard in the offseason to get in better shape while working on her overall speed by doing more biking and running. Porter will play at second base, and fellow team captain Crystal Jacquez will be at third base for her senior season.
Senior first baseman Yohana Gonzalez and sophomore pitcher Zakora Williams are the only other returning players for Compton.
Alex Togagae will also get some time at first base and hit towards the top of the lineup. Catcher Alyssa Lopez and center fielder Imelda Perez will be key newcomers in the heart of the lineup.
“I want to see the team bond growing, the completion of the season, all the girls maintaining their grads and us winning a game,” Kelly said.
