With a long frosty winter ending and a new spring season approaching, the start of the girls’ softball season is finally here. Both returning players and new additions to the team are motivated by their passion for the game and are ready to put in the hard work necessary to perfect their craft. Coaches Mr. Cascino and Brandow share this same mindset, setting the tone for the upcoming season.
“Our goals for the upcoming season are to teach players the game of softball— not just the techniques, but also the ins and outs of the game,” said Brandow. “We also aim to build a team environment where support and teamwork can thrive.”
In the world of softball, creating a supportive environment is key to team success. Coaches Cascino and Brandow emphasize the importance of fostering a team spirit where players encourage and support one another throughout the season.
Along with a positive environment, the coaches are also looking for players with a strong mindset. “We want players with a positive attitude, coachability, and the drive to continuously improve,” Cascino added. “Softball is a game that challenges your mentality, so when trying out, it’s important to show tenacity and a desire to grow.”
To become great at softball, Brandow and Cascino both stress one essential factor, to practice. “Practice, practice, practice. Everybody wants to be successful, but very few people are willing to put in the time and sacrifice necessary to achieve it,” they explained.
As the new softball season begins, the coaches are seeking players who possess grit, discipline, and determination. Softball requires more than just physical ability — it demands mental toughness and dedication both on and off the field. “The mechanics of a swing or learning the intricate rules of the game takes repetition and mental commitment,” said Brandow.
Last season marked a period of growth for the girls on Cardozo’s softball team, but with more practice time and reflection, the coaches are hopeful that the players will develop even more resilience, hard work, and, most importantly, dedication. Returning players are eager to continue their progress and dominate the field. Many of these players were new to the game last year, but they are now equipped with the skills and experience needed to execute new plays effectively.
The team is excited to face off against skilled competitors like Bayside High School, Francis Lewis, and Flushing High School, eager to showcase the knowledge and experience they’ve gained and make their mark in the league.
Cardozo softball has come a long way, and although they’ve faced setbacks, the team has always bounced back stronger. As Henry Ford once said, “Failure is simply the opportunity to begin again, this time more intelligently.” The girls have learned from their failures and are now ready for a fresh start, bringing new skills while also building on what worked last season.
With unwavering resilience, the girls are hungry for success and filled with unshakeable confidence. The combination of returning players’ experience and passion for the game, along with the new players’ excitement, sets them up for a season full of potential. They can’t fail.
