The Long Beach City College softball team made history last season, not just through its success on the field, but with the bonds that carried them there. The Vikings secured their first first conference championship since 2002, catapulted by a 36-4 record that placed them at No. 4 in the entire state. SCC Coach of the Year Megan Martinez considered last season to be a major accomplishment for the program.
“That experience gave our players confidence in one another and reinforced the importance of trust, communication, and accountability as a group,” Martinez said.
Martinez is most proud of how her squad came together and collectively earned the championship. She said building on that success will require maintaining team culture and ensuring that responsibilities permeate throughout the program.
“We’re emphasizing leadership at every level, supporting one another through challenges, and committing to the daily work it takes to grow together,” Martinez said.
As the Vikings push for another title and go toe-to-toe with California’s best, Martinez believes all aspirations hinge on team chemistry. She expects her squad to stay consistent with preparation, while competing together and develop impactful relationships both on and off the field.
The Vikings return several contributors from last season’s historic squad. Leading the pack is sophomore third baseman Michelle Cervantes. She’s known as the team’s most impactful offensive player, as she mashed .336 last season with 22 RBIs, earning her first-team all-conference honors.
The San Diego native has only gotten better this past offseason, and Martinez expects Cervantes to continue to be a “big bat” for LBCC this year.
“Watch for run production and timely hitting to support the heart of the lineup,” Martinez said.
Behind the plate, LBCC will be anchored by catcher Zara Mineo. A fellow sophomore, she hit a remarkable .368 last year while providing steady hits and opening up scoring opportunities. Mineo was also recognized all-conference, and Martinez is excited for her growth as a middle-lineup and offensive threat.
“She is an emerging hitter,” Martinez said.
In the outfield, the Vikings return Sienna Rievley and Alesa Gonzalez, alongside Long Beach natives Mikaela Pacheco and Lela Hyphy Asi. Haleigh Jacobs is another name to watch in the infield, as she’ll primarily serve at second base.
“These players earned honorable mention All-SCC and bring depth to the lineup and fielding,” Martinez said.
While these players serve as the core returners on offense, Martinez is also excited about two infielders starting with the program this season. Nata Leomiti, a graduate of St. Anthony, takes over at first base, while Madison Fao, a San Pedro native, will play shortstop. Martinez commends these freshmen for their hitting, strength and elite defensive play.
LBCC’s rotation also welcomes an influx of new talent. The Vikings’ only returning starter from last season is Adalise Valenzuela, who went 9-0 with a 0.96 ERA. She’ll be the frontman of a pitching staff of primarily freshmen. These include Lauren Cervantes, Ella Haugo – who also spends time at first base – and Noelie Guerrero – who also plays in the outfield.
This squad has gotten off to an 11-4 start this season with a 7-2 home record. But conference play has proven to be more difficult with the Vikings sitting at 4-4, already having double the amount of losses compared to last season’s 22-2 mark.
Nevertheless, Martinez is confident that her team’s unity, strength and dedication will continue to translate on the baseball field.
“If we stay connected, focused, and committed to each other, we believe the results will take care of themselves,” Martinez said.
Projected Starting Lineup
C – Zara Mineo (So.) / Madison Ramon (So.) / Itzel Diaz (So.)
1B – Nata Leomiti (So.) / Ella Haugo (Fr.) / Mikaela Pacheco (So.)
2B – Haleigh Jacobs (So.) / Alesa Gonzalez (So.)
SS – Madison Fao (Fr.)
3B – Michelle Cervantes (So.)
LF – Sienna Rievley (OF) / Isabella Galan (So.) / Mikaela Pacheco (So.)
CF – Alesa Gonzalez (So.) / Itzel Diaz (So.)
RF – Lela Asi (So.)
P – Adalise Valenzuela (So.) / Lauren Cervantes (Fr.) / Ella Haugo (Fr.) / Noelie Guerrero (Fr)
