Softball: CdM sees endless possibilities

Tony Altobelli

If last year’s 7-11 record was a surprise, just wait until this

year, according to Corona del Mar High girls softball Coach Terry

Christiano.

Just two years after not fielding a team, the Sea Kings have pumped

new life into the program and are already setting their sights on the

postseason.

“It’s been an amazing turnaround,” Christiano said about the state of

CdM’s program. “Last year, we started with nothing and worked our way to

17 players and a decent season. Now, we have a varsity and junior varsity

program with over 30 girls, so we’re definitely going in the right

direction.”

The Sea Kings have nine players returning from last year’s squad,

including Daily Pilot Dream Team selections Alissa Zoelle, Amy Tyson,

Casey Bunney, Meaghan Bunney and Mijanou Pham.

Zoelle, a sophomore, hit a Newport-Mesa District-best .456 as the Sea

Kings’ shortstop and No. 1 pitcher. She scored 14 runs, had 16 RBIs at

the plate and posted a 6-4 record with a one-hitter as a pitcher.

Tyson was a strong defensive force behind the plate, while batting

.397 with 22 runs scored last year.

Junior Casey Bunney will return to third base and find some company

with Ashley Brown and Taylor McCormick. If she returns to her .333

batting average and 11 RBIs from a year ago, Christiano will find a place

for her on the diamond.

Sophomore Meaghan Bunney hit .444 (24 for 54) with 12 runs scored last

year, while playing a solid first base.

Pham, one of the few seniors on this year’s squad, has been working

hard on defense and will look to improve on her. 344 batting average from

a year ago. She, along with Zoelle and Brown will make a formidable Sea

Kings’ pitching staff.

“Our improvements from last year both on offense and defense has been

astronomical,” Christiano said. “Plus with so many new faces, that was a

beautiful surprise.”

With all the returning faces and strength in numbers, the Sea Kings

have gone from not having a team at all, into a solid playoff contender.

“I never like to make promises, but I have no doubt that we have the

talent to make the playoffs,” Christiano said. “We’re all excited to get

this season underway. With University, Costa Mesa and Northwood in our

league, anything’s possible, but our confidence is high.”