The Reagan softball team has had its fair share of ups and downs this season. As a young team with only five upperclassmen, it has been a learning season for many of the younger players.  

“The five seniors have done a tremendous job setting and executing the expectations,” assistant coach Bob Berlinger said.  “The sophomores and freshmen have done a wonderful job following the lead of our seniors.”

During spring break, the team played in a tournament at West Brunswick High School and stayed at Sunset Beach.  Although the results on the field (0-4) were not what they wanted, the trip allowed for team bonding.  The team became closer during this experience together due to the leadership of the seniors.  

“It was really fun and it was a learning experience for the whole team,” freshman Dani Foust said. “Having the chance to bond with the whole team an irreplaceable experience.”

A season highlight was Reagan beating West 9-8 with a walkoff run in the regular season on March 21.

“Winning that game was exhilarating,” Jessica Cummings said. “It took me back to when we won sophomore year against them.”

Due to the rivalry between Reagan and West, this year, beating West for any sports team is an exciting feeling.  Reagan beat West in the bottom of the 7th inning.

“We went ahead quickly and then West fought back to take a commanding lead,” Berlinger said.  “We chipped away in the 6th inning which set up the exciting drama in the 7th inning.”

Reagan ended their regular season with a 10-12 record and 7-5 in the Central Piedmont Conference. They tied with West for third place in the conference. But unfortunately lost to Davie in the second round of the CPC tournament.

How the team finished in the CPC tournament and the team’s record will help to determine their seed in the state playoffs.

“Beyond overall team talent, matchups dictate much of a team’s success in the state playoffs,” Berlinger said.  

There are high hopes for next season, but it will be tough to replace the five seniors who have won 40-plus varsity games during their careers.  However, five to six varsity starters as well as three to four other important players will be returning to compete for starting positions for next season.  

“If the players commit to the off-season developmental program and play varsity-caliber travel ball throughout the summer and fall, the 2018 Reagan softball team could be the best Reagan team since the 2008 team that finished 15-8,” Berlinger said.