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Jessica Castro and Noelle Medina, former Lady Miner teammates, played against each other in a game this season. Jessica is catching and Noelle batting. (Submitted photo)
By Frank Smith
Two former San Manuel High School Miner Softball players (2008-2011) were recognized early last month by the ACCAC (Arizona Community College Athletic Conference) for their performance this season at their respective colleges.
Noelle Medina, daughter of Olivia (Johnson) Medina and Francisco Medina, signed with Pima Community College last summer. She earned a starting position at second base and the number four “clean up” batting position in the Aztec line up. Pima ended their season 39-9 (#2) in Conference and 49-12 (#10) in National play. Noelle’s stats earned her a Top 10 Ranking in the #4 spot in the state and #7 in the nation for RBIs – 76, and #10 in the state for Home Runs – 12. She continues her field of study in medicine and maintains a 3.5 grade point average.
Jessica Marie Castro, daughter of Michelle Gonzales-Castro and David Castro, earned a softball scholarship to play at Mesa Community College. Jessica also earned herself a starting position as catcher in the Thunderbird line up. The Thunderbirds ended their season 12-36 (#11) in Conference and 13-39 in National Play. Jessica earned a spot in the TOP 10 Rankings in the #6 spot for fielding with a fielding average of .988. She had 74 put outs, 5 assists with only 1 error. Jessica maintains a grade point average of 3.6 and is studying pediatrics and oncology.
Coach Deanne Brewer said, “Congratulations to both of these young ladies! Continue to represent yourself, your families, your high school and your community! We are so proud of you.”
Jessica played this season with a torn rotator cuff. She plans on resting it this summer so she can continue to play next year.
Noelle and the Pima Aztecs will head to Utah to play in the NJCAA Tournament the weekend of May 17-19, following their regional win against Yavapai (where Noelle hit a GRAND SLAM!). Congratulations and good luck to Noelle and the Pima Aztecs!
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