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Most softball teams would be down following a 12-0 playoff loss. But if the Bok squad was upset, its members had a funny way of showing it. Players typically toss water – or other beverages of choice – following a big victory over a coach’s head.
So, why was pitcher Alaina Sanitate pouring water onto the heads of her teammates?
Making the Public League playoffs for the first time in the school’s history had something to do with it.
"I am happy that we made it to the playoffs," the 16-year-old said, while her teammates continued the dousings.
Despite being in the middle of an interview, the junior knew she wasn’t in the clear.
"They’ll get me later," she said.
Bok finished fourth in the AAA Division with a 5-5 record. The prize for the placement was an opening-round game against division champ The High School for Creative and Performing Arts, the team that defeated Bok twice during the regular season. Bok actually won two less games this season than last season, but thanks to realignment, the record was good enough to make the postseason cut.
If only they didn’t have to play CAPA again. In the May 4 match-up at Chew Playground, 18th Street and Washington Avenue, the Wildkittens had one runner reach base via a walk. The game was called after five innings due to the 10-run mercy rule.
"I like the other teams [in the division], but I don’t like CAPA," Sanitate said.
The funny thing is, the pitcher was never really a big fan of softball. She grew up playing T-ball at Delaware Valley Youth Athletic Association, 18th and Johnston streets, until age 10, but baseball was her sport of choice. Unfortunately, baseball is a boys’ game. Last spring, Sanitate decided to give softball a try.
"Since I am not allowed to play baseball with the boys, I decided to play softball with the girls," she said.
When she went out for the team her sophomore year, coach Greg Frangipani immediately named the newcomer his starting pitcher.
"You could tell that she played before," he said. "She would probably be my shortstop, but she is the only one who can get the ball over the plate consistently.
"She is tough and doesn’t get rattled; she just plays," he added.
With only one senior on the roster, the Wildkittens could use this season’s success as the foundation for future triumphs.
"We had five girls who never played before," Frangipani said. "I am optimistic that maybe next year we’ll do a little better."
Get the water bottles ready.
