The Capo Girls Softball 12U All-Star team paved their way to the American Softball Association "B" State Championship game by using a variety of offensive and defensive tactics. Stellar pitching, bunts, hit and runs and hitting for contact, have been their trademark in a season that has seen them claim five consecutive tournament wins and compile an overall record of 44-0. More than half the team play a second sport (either club soccer or volleyball) and their athleticism, agility and speed truly make a difference.
The 12U All-Star team aiming to win the 2021 Central "B" District Championship was held at Fountain Valley Sports Park. Capo Softball outscored its opponents by 31 runs over the course of four games. The 12U Gold team defeated Huntington Beach (13-6), Placentia-Yorba Linda (13-1) and the San Clemente Threats twice (7-4, 10-1) to win the district title. It achieved being undefeated state champions.
To take state was a goal all along and on June 27, 2021, the Capo 12U All-Star team won the 2021 Southern California B State Championship. The 12U Gold team defeated Thousand Oaks (9-7), Clairemont Gold (5-0), Redondo Sunset (7-2), and the San Clemente Threats (8-1), and Beach (5-2) to win the state title. It achieved being undefeated state champions. Although the last time in the program's history for a Capo Girls Softball team to win States was in 2014, it is the first time in the program’s history that a 12U Gold team, which draws players from Ladera Ranch and Mission Viejo, has won the state tournament at the B State Championship level. They will now head to the ASA Fast Pitch Girls Western National Championships in Roseville, California which begins on July 20 through July 25.
The San Juan Capistrano and Ladera Ranch communities have rallied around the team during their historic run. Lola's Café is a prominent sponsor for Capo Girls Softball. I would love to say I want a top-5 finish, or to win, which would be amazing. But at the same time, I want them to have fun,” Head Coach Robert Aguilar said. “Regardless of what happens it’s been a remarkable, banner year.”
The Capo Girls Softball 12U Gold All-Star team includes: Ava De Filippo, Raegan Kubisch, Cassidy Stinnett, Grace Poyner, Shayne Delprato, Dylan Aguilar, Kate Nelson, Sophie Quiming, Maddie Vallez, and Sarah Johansson.
Article by Sharon Kubisch
