The Vaqueros faced a tough test on sophomore day, as they ran into a hot-hitting College of the Canyons softball squad, falling 17–0 on April 14 at the Glendale Sports Complex.
Canyons jumped out early with a six-run first inning and never let up, adding runs in each of the next three frames to take full control of the game. Despite the result, Glendale's sophomore class remained at the center of the team's effort throughout the afternoon.
Azusena Lopez highlighted the day offensively, collecting Glendale's only hit with a sharp single and continuing to provide consistency at the top of the lineup. Arlene Islas showed discipline at the plate as well, drawing a walk to reach base.
In the circle, Mia Sanchez took the start and battled through a tough opening stretch against an aggressive lineup. Annaliese Ruiz came on in relief and provided valuable innings, working through the middle of the game and helping the Vaqueros settle in defensively.
Across the field, the sophomore group made its presence felt. Catarina Anzalone handled duties in the outfield, while Taylor Bangs contributed at third base. Valerie Juarez anchored first base, and Jeyslen Orial saw time at second, helping cover the infield. Behind the plate, Isabelle Mendoza added support at catcher, working with the pitching staff throughout the game, while Joslyn Padilla added depth in the outfield rotation.
Even in a difficult game, the sophomore class — Azusena Lopez, Taylor Bangs, Mallory Smith, Valerie Juarez, Catarina Anzalone, Jeyslen Orial, Isabelle Mendoza, Joslyn Padilla, Mia Sanchez, Annaliese Ruiz, and Arlene Islas — continued to lead by example and represent the program with effort and resilience.