Committed seniors lead softball program

The success of Perry’s softball team is no coincidence, and can be attributed to the unity of the team under the leadership of the seniors. Seniors Chandler Walter, Katie Fernandez and Emily Guadagno have committed to play collegiately at the University of Utah, Cottey College and American International College respectively, and their effort on the field has translated to that of their teammates.

“The seniors show leadership in different ways,” Guadagno said. “Some do it quietly, some are the captains and some are always looking out for the team.”

With seniors such as Fernandez who have worked through Perry’s program for the past four years, it is easy to see how such a tight bond has been woven between the players with the coaches and each other.

“I loved playing hacky sack with the team and just having fun off the field with my teammates,” Fernandez said.

While this special group of senior softballers is quick to boast about the girls playing next to them, they are far more humble of their own achievements. The trio have put up a combined 60 runs this season, eight of which were home runs, and Walter alone has stolen 19 bases.

“We’re an extremely good hitting team,” Coach Robert Hehe said.

Perhaps more seen as a sisterhood than merely players on a team, the Pumas have grown together throughout the season, going 20-7 thus far.

“By communicating with everyone, showing the underclassmen how to have fun while winning, and getting things done right away when asked [shows leadership],” Fernandez said. We know that we are showing the way for underclassmen so we do our best to do things the Puma way and do them right.”

Although endless possibilities await the committed seniors in their collegiate careers, the bonds formed at Perry are enough to make their last few games bittersweet.

“My favorite memory from Perry softball is all of the friends I have made and the tournaments we play in,” Guadagno said.