The last first pitch: seniors share their thoughts on finishing softball, baseball seasons

By Bryce Milburn

Sports Editor 

The Crete-Monee Warrior baseball and softball team played their senior night against Rich Township Raptors for softball winning 18-8 and the Thornridge Falcons for baseball on May 20. The Warriors delivered two huge victories, creating memories on this field that will last a lifetime.

Photo taken by Crete Monee athletic page of all the athletes on signing day.

Four-year softball player, shortstop and Governor State University commit, Taleeana Ramirez, is batting .783 with 36 hits, 46 runs, and tearing it up on the basepath with 36 stolen bases. 

“Softball has made me more motivated and reach farther goals. Softball has also taught me to let things go easy, to have fun, and make friends because it will go by quicker than you think,” Ramirez said. 

Outfielder Carli Sawallisch commented that because Talee has always been the biggest supporter in her softball career, she keeps her motivated and pushes her to be better. 

"With this sport, you have to be mature, and once you learn that this game is a part of failing, then you'll be good,” varsity outfielder and Kankakee Community College commit Keyshon James said.

Seniors who play all four years have a passion for the sport, or someone who keeps pushing them to do better, the seniors said about who keeps them motivated. 

”Coach Meyer inspired me to be the best I can be. He has always believed in me ever since I was a freshman on varsity. My dad as well, because he always pushed me and believed in me,”. Varsity outfielder and Kankakee Community College commit Anthony Monegan said.

Athletes see senior night differently, like how outfielder Walter Johnson sees senior night not as an ending point but something to show you made it this far, and that you achieved what you wanted. 

”Senior night to me reflects all the last 4 years I've played here on the team, and is a reminder of all the ups and the downs I've had on the team,” outfielder and Jackson College Commit Raechel Lindsay said.   

The players have an impact on the program. But they can have a greater impact on the coaches as well. 

Assistant Varsity softball coach Mrs. Perez talks about how the seniors and how they have grown individually.

“This group of seniors has clearly played a big role in shaping the varsity softball team, not just through their performance but through how they lead and support others. They bring a mix of reliability, positivity, and competitive drive that sets the tone for the entire program. Together, they’ve helped create a culture where players are motivated, supported, and held to a high standard.” 

The seniors have a lot of things to remember throughout their high school years. But there will always be that one thing that is the hardest to let go of. 

“The game doesn't stop but the memories that we have and things we've been through together that's one thing that just stays here. And you can't make that anywhere else,” Johnson said. 

Carli adds to that with,” My underclassmen will be the hardest part to let go of. I've seen them grow so it's like they've seen me grow but it hurts since I don't get the chance to see them grow so I'm sad about that,” Carli Sawallisch said.

A good group of seniors can not only impact players, but the coaches as well. 

”This group has taught me to always expect the unexpected. This senior group was freshman, my first year working in the high school. I have watched them grow from their freshman year until now. Not only are they good kids, but the relationships we have built over the last four years have left a lasting impression on their fellow teammates,” varsity baseball Head Coach Meyer said.  

Ms. Perez said that coaching the team pushed her to grow just as much have, as they challenged her to be more intentional about how she communicates, leads, and connects with each player.

“I’ve had to balance holding them accountable with giving them the space to lead, and that’s made me a more thoughtful and adaptable coach. They taught me to stay positive has reminded me that coaching isn’t just about strategy: it’s about building relationships and helping players grow as people,” Ms Perez said.

Monegan adds to Perez's comments by saying he wants to continue to leave a positive impact on the team.

“When I leave the baseball field for the last time, I want people to remember how dedicated I was and my ability to push others to be the best they could be,“ Monegan said. 

”I hope they remember my energy, my leadership, and me pushing to make them better players,” Ramirez added.