The Brentwood Christian softball season ended at the hands of Hyde Park on April 17. The program was winless this season, but improvement was the goal from start to finish, and the Lady Bears left the field against the Lady Panthers optimistic for the future.

The team returned only two of its players from the co-district champion 2024 squad, leading to a year full of learning in a tough TAPPS 5A district which include two teams who were state tournament squads (Hyde Park and Brook Hill) from a season ago.

“We improved a lot and we didn’t have a single pitcher or catcher at the beginning of the season,” said sophomore pitcher, catcher and first baseman Ella Kennedy. “We filled roles, and people played in positions they have never played before.”

Kennedy and junior Reese Hertel were the lone holdovers from last year’s team, and the duo were honored as second-team all district selections at the end of the season.

Even through the struggles and challenges the team still made great memories and grew closer together, by sticking together and relying on each other for support. Junior Zuriel Davis said that one of her favorite memories was when the team begged their coach to stop at Buc-ee’s, but he said he would only stop for coffee.

“My favorite memory was when we went to Waco [to play the Texas Wind] because the players had fun and we really played together,” said head coach Efrain Contreras.

The team developed their skills in practices and games, while their faith grew stronger during those moments.

“We grew together spiritually by cheering for each other during the tough times and praying for each other,” said Davis.

On the field, the team’s closest game came against East Austin College Prep in the second meeting between the two teams on April 8. In a back-and-forth contest, the Lady Bears fell, 11-9.
The softball team might have not played the way they wanted to, but that isn’t going to stop them from getting better for next season.

Freshmen Margaret Banks, Ryleigh Ransburg and Anna Kostas all played many innings for the team this year and will continue to look to improve leading into their sophomore season.

“The more you play, the better you become,” said assistant head coach Ethan Grant.

Some goals that Conteras and Grant have for next season include player development, pitching prowess and general knowledge of the sport. Some goals that the Lady Bears have include increased communication between each other and stronger relationships across the board.