As winter sports come to an end, spring sports begin to roll in. Softball begins by welcoming new and old athletes back onto the field.
When prepping the new team, coaches and captains look for discipline and determination, hoping their new teammates are willing to give it their all at their next games.
“Toughness. I want a group of girls that are willing to fight, dive, run, and give their all every game,” said Coach Joe Ciccarello. “I won’t care about the score. That will take care of itself. If we are giving everything we have, and caring about each other and the outcome, it will work out.”
Ciccarello has been a softball coach for 28 years, which includes 5 years at Masco, 11 years at Savio Prep, and 12 years at Revere High. Every year, he trains his athletes with determination to win, and this year, he plans to take it up a notch, putting pressure on his athletes and focusing on the wins.
Ciccarello values the leadership of his captains.
“As a captain, I hope to help my new teammates become smarter softball players, and lead as the center fielder through consistency and working well under pressure,” said senior Aimee Quimby.
Quimby has been playing softball since the fourth grade and has been on the varsity all four years of high school. She has worked her way to become a strong and respected leader on the team, known for her dedication, consistency, and positive attitude both on and off the field.
“They both were welcoming and made sure I was included in everything,” said freshman Piera Nteta. “Aimee is really good at leading and has very strong communication skills.”
This year, Quimby will showcase her leadership skills now that freshmen have arrived on the field and are more ready than ever to take the lead.
Nteta said that from captain practices to indoor leagues, everyone on the team is caring and supportive, showing that the team bond this year is going to be strong and unbreakable.
“I’m looking forward to being able to play with a new group of people and having a team that cares deeply for each other,” said Nteta. “It’s a very positive and supportive space.”
Nteta has been playing softball since the third grade, and last year she played for Masco on the JV team. Ever since, she has worked hard to secure herself a spot on the varsity team.
“I’m so happy and grateful to be able to play varsity as a freshman because I know it is something I have to work hard for,” said Nteta.
With leadership setting the tone and younger players stepping up, the team is looking strong this season. The captains continue to guide and support everyone, including underclassmen who are already starting to find their place and grow as players. This group is not only building skills on the field, but also creating a strong sense of teamwork and trust. As the season goes on, their hard work and connection as a team will help them face challenges and improve together.
Their first game will be hosted on April 1, where they will be playing Marblehead High School at home.