The Ceres Sizzle accomplished a first last week.
The newly-formed eight-and-under travel softball team won a tournament title.
The Sizzle compiled a perfect 5-0 record in Hilmar.
“Our hitting was on,” first-year head coach Misty Roton said. “We played good defense.”
Top-seeded Ceres received contributions from Victoria Martinez-Lloyd, Kylie Maines, Gabriella Ramirez, Destiny Ramirez, Vivian Pittman, Allie Peterman, Adison Overbey, Celeste Leon, Alysta Tover, Kareli Hernandez, Julia Roton, Kylie Robinson and Angeli Samora.
Misty’s coaching staff consists of James Samora, Mattie Maines and Jennie Schultz.
“We’ve practiced a lot,” she said. “But they’re also getting experience during games. They’ve gained a lot of confidence.”
Ceres defeated the Patterson Tigers by the four-inning mercy rule, 12-2, in the championship game on Sunday.
The Sizzle improved to 13-2 on the year.
Ceres took second in Newman (5-1).
The Sizzle did not place in Riverbank (3-1).
“I had high hopes,” said Misty Roton, who coached recreational softball in Ceres prior to being selected to direct the Sizzle. “But I didn’t know what to expect. They’ve surprised me. They’ve exceeded my expectations.”
Ceres will play in its home tournament this week at the George Costa Ball Field Complex.
Brackets will be released on Wednesday.