February 2011
Under new Head Coach Jessica Rayman, the OJC Lady Rattler Softball Team has their sights set on making another trip to the NJCAA National Tournament. Rayman is being assisted by Meghan Richardson, a former Lady Rattler who played for OJC from 2005 to 2007.
The Rattler will compete against six Region IX teams which include: Dawson Community College, Lamar Community College, McCook Community College, Trinidad State Junior College, and Western Nebraska Community College.
According to Rayman, each year the region gets tougher and tougher.
“Whichever team wins the double elimination Region IX Tournament earns an automatic bid to the NJCAA National Tournament in St. George, UT. The Lady Rattlers have the necessary talent and heart to make the trip to the National Tournament,” said Rayman.
The Rattler pitching staff returns Marilyn Montoya and Monica Martinez. Pitchers adding to the mix are Nicole Soltis and Alex Chavez. Each of these pitchers brings something different and all will add necessary depth to the pitching staff.
The Rattlers will see some powerful offense from sophomores Laura Abellanida, April Freier, Mariah Griego, Yo Montano, Marilyn Montoya, as well as freshmen Amanda Arias-Young, Alex Chavez, Keshia Koger, Ashley Olson, Paige Ries, and Tori Spinuzzi. Other tough players to look for are: Brailey Freed, Jordan Bailey, Leinna Kalua, Kalysa Duran, Nicole Hathorne, Lerea Mares, and Kara Finger.
“We have a very talented group of young ladies this year who have been working extremely hard. I’m very excited to see them put it all together on the field,” said Rayman.
