April 5, 2025
By Jenifer Ali
Staff Writer
With a strong start to the season, the girls softball team hit the field with a 13-1 away victory against Manchester Regional High School on March 31. As of April 4, the team’s record was 3-1.
Head Coach Auteri, who has been with the program since 2008 and has been leading the team for the past three seasons, said despite the challenges ahead, she is optimistic about this season.
“We have a pretty tough schedule,” said Auteri, explaining that Harrison, Hudson Catholic in Jersey City, Rutherford, St. Mary in Rutherford, Secaucus, Union City and Westwood will all be fierce competitors.
“We’ve been in a bit of a slump the past few years, so we are trying to raise the bar,” Auteri said.
The team finished last season with a 3-19 record, but Auteri said the effort and morale of this year’s players will likely lead to improved results.
“It’s been a great vibe,” Auteri said. “Everyone’s happy to be there, working hard and fighting for a position. The large group of [seven] freshmen is a plus because we haven’t had these numbers in a long time.”
Regarding strategy, Auteri said the team will focus on making smart plays and being smart on the bases.
“We started off very young when I took over as head coach. Now, those freshmen are juniors, and I want them to step up and take that leadership role.”
“It’s very important to know how to base run, strategize and use proper form and technique,” Auteri said.
She said daily practice is also essential for players who want to improve.
“Even if it’s 20 minutes a day working with your glove or hitting off a tee, you have to put in the time,” Auteri said. “You have to do the little things to get to the big show.”
She said her primary goal this season is to build a strong team culture and instill confidence in the players.
“We started off very young when I took over as head coach. Now, those freshmen are juniors, and I want them to step up and take that leadership role,” Auteri said.
Like Auteri, junior and first baseman Ava Woolis, who has been on varsity for three years, said she sees promise in the upcoming season.
“We have a lot of young players, but they are really good. If we support each other, we’ll have a great season,” Woolis said.
She said she advises new players to listen to Auteri and Assistant Coach Catena.
“They know what they are talking about, and you have to trust the process,” Woolis said.
She said the best part of being on the softball team is the atmosphere.
“I love being outside, especially when it’s nice and warm. The coaches are always so funny and respectful, and my teammates are some of my best friends,” Woolis said.
She said she tries not to let the stress of competition upset her.
“Sometimes, you have to pick your own head up if no one else notices you’re struggling,” Woolis said.
Senior shortstop Gianna DeCoro, who joined varsity last year, said playing consistently and handling pressure during games are especially difficult aspects of the sport.
“[I] just keep in mind that it’s okay to make mistakes but to keep going forward,” DeCoro said.
She said she takes pride in supporting her teammates, especially when they are struggling.
“If they make a mistake, [I] make sure they… keep going [and] stay positive,” DeCoro said.
Senior outfielder Kiana Marizan, who joined varsity her sophomore year, said she values the bond among her teammates.
“I love how everyone always has each other’s backs,” Marizan said. “The communication on the field has definitely improved compared to previous years.”
Marizan said that although the team is stronger than last year, the season will still be challenging.
“You can’t always anticipate what is going to happen in a game, so miscommunication can mess up an entire play,” Marizan said.
Despite past struggles, Marizan said she is determined to help the team stay positive.
“I take failure [well]. I’m always up, happy and trying to push others to continue,” Marizan said.
She said she is going into this season with an optimistic attitude.
“Last year, I expected losses because we weren’t at our best. No matter what happens, I know we’ll give it our all,” said Marizan.
