The Natalia Lady Mustangs hit the softball diamond almost two weeks ago as they prepare for the 2021 season.
After watching their season get canceled due to covid prior to the start of district play, Coach Tara Cortinas is excited about the potential this season.
Natalia will return six starters to the program this season which has just over 25 girls out so far.
“It was disappointing but mostly heartbreaking to see our seniors season end abruptly,”Coach Tara Cortinas said. “As much as we would have loved to complete our season, we all understood that our safety was priority.”
As mentioned practice did begin almost two weeks ago. Coach Cortinas was asked her thoughts on how practice has gone so far.
“Our first few days of practice have been enjoyable and productive'” Cortinas said. “With a combination of returners, hard-working newcomers, and a shared sense of team-first mentality I know good things will follow. We are a few days in but we have been impressed and blessed with what our girls have already brought to the table. They are self starters. Our veterans have been leading from the front through their work ethic and the others have followed suit. I am confident that we will have a significant season this year. ”
The season will begin January 30th with a road scrimmage vs Carrizo Springs. Natalia will then have scrimmage action vs. Pleasanton, Kerrville, Pearsall and Southside.
Non-district games this season will be vs Devine and Hondo and tournament action will be at Jourdanton, Medina Valley and a small tournament held here in Natalia.
Of course, district foes once again will be Jourdanton, Dilley, Cotulla, Dilley, Poth, Karnes City, Poth and Lytle.
Coach Cortinas was asked what her goals for her team are this season. She stated the following:
“First and foremost, have a complete season,” Cortinas said. “We are going to be intentional in the way we attack each and every day to get better not just as a softball player, but as a teammate. We want to be able to look back on this season and know that we gave everything we had to put ourselves in the best position to compete with the best.”
By Eric Smith
Staff Writer