Cypress Softball Crowned Orange Empire Conference Champions
The No. 1 ranked Chargers softball team (29-4, 17-0 OEC) have officially clinched the Orange Empire Conference title with four games remaining in conference play.
The No. 1 ranked Chargers softball team (29-4, 17-0 OEC) have officially clinched the Orange Empire Conference title with four games remaining in conference play. "When we set our team goals at the beginning of this season winning conference was one of them but we have some games left and I have high expectations for this team" said Coach Brad Pickler.
Cypress softball has now won 21 OEC championships in program history, all under the leadership of head coach Brad Pickler. The Chargers have claimed 14 of the last 15 Orange Empire Conference titles and are now back-to-back champions for the tenth time. When asked about the continued success of his program Coach Pickler said, "I just take it year by year…we've had some talented teams that have allowed us to put this run together".
The Chargers faced some adversity early this season when they were upset by El Camino in the season opener. However, the team responded with 16 straight victories to get their season back on track. A solid combination of sophomore leadership and freshman talent has been key to this year's success.
The 2015 OEC Pitcher of the Year, Taylor Pierce (12-3), has continued her dominance at the mound and at the plate this season. Pierce leads the pitching staff in innings pitched (103.2) and strikeouts (84), while also leading the team with a .448 AVG, 38 RBI, and 6 HR. 2015 All-OEC selections, Tobi Salzman and Jezz Portillo have also continued their production this season. Salzman leads the team with 43 hits, 16 walks, and .680 SLG. Portillo leads the Chargers with 136 putouts.
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