by 
By Nathaniel A. Lopez
The Superior High School baseball team started its 2022 season on Feb. 24, competing in the Charger Pre-Season Classic. Over the three days of the tournament, the Panthers faced Mogollon, Scottsdale Prep, and Benjamin Franklin high schools, and the boys were able to leave with a win.
“We are a very young team, so we have to teach them how to play baseball and they have a lot to learn, but they are excited to learn, they want to learn, they want to practice, so that makes things easier. We played three games this past weekend and they improved with each game. These boys just need to play games,” commented head baseball coach Manuel Ortega. “Our top expectation is to win a state championship. Along the way, we have the expectations of trying to get better everyday, increasing our baseball IQ, being better teammates, and to always leave everything on the field. We have a long way to go, but it will be worth it.”
The Panthers have a total of 15 players this season, two of them seniors, and four of them returning starters from last season. The boys hosted Miami yesterday; results from that game were unavailable at press time. The boys will continue their week by competing in the 34th Annual Joe Padilla Tournament starting on March 2 in Florence.
The Lady Panthers have eight returning to the field this season; four seniors, three juniors, and one sophomore. Along with those returning, they also have seven new players. Their season yesterday at home against Miami; results from that game were unavailable at press time. The Lady Panthers will not see another game until their March 8 game against Fort Thomas.
“I look forward to another successful year with the seniors we have leading the way. I’m expecting a great year from all of them. I’m expecting a great year from all of them. I’m expecting Danika Bryant to have a great year at the circle, and I think they will have a great year at the plate,” stated head softball coach Alfonso Lopez. “Our defense should be solid, we have some big shoes to fill, but the additional girls that came out this year are quickly getting better and are improving every day. As long as we stay healthy, we should compete very well this year.”
by by