Four Vikings earn league honors

BARSTOW - Four members of the Barstow softball team earned league honors as selected by coaches on Thursday.

Anne Marie Hernandez earned first team honors, while Daisha Mitchell was selected to the second team. Melissa Galindo and Julie Shipley were selected honorable mention.

"We are pleased that our players were recognized for their play, character and team dedication," said coach Tim Syrek. "We have plenty of room to grow as a team, but these ladies performed well throughout the season."

Hernandez finished the season leading the team in RBI, hits, doubles, home runs and slugging percentage. She anchored the shortstop position for the Vikings. Hernandez had 19 doubles on the season which was second in the CCCAA.

"Anne Marie has big time power and the ability to crush the ball," Syrek said. "She was a strong run producer and really became a clutch hitter."

Mitchell played centerfield and was the leadoff batter for the majority of the season. She led the team in runs scored, walks and on base percentage.

"Daisha was a big weapon for our offense," Syrek added. "She did a great job of getting on base and starting the offense."

Shipley played first base, but handled the catching duties down the stretch. She threw out 5-of-11 base runners and hit .338 overall.

"Julie handled our pitchers well and she limited the opposing team from getting extra bases," Syrek said.

Galindo served the team in many areas playing centerfield, first base, second base and pitcher. She also was second on the team in RBI and hit .371 overall.

"She has incredible talent and versatility to play so many positions," Syrek added. "Melissa was our most consistent defensive player and is fundamentally sound."

The individual honors pay tribute to the entire team, Syrek added. 

"We wouldn't receive any honors if the team didn't have success," he said. "Every player on the roster in some way contributed to these honors. I am looking forward to improved play, team dynamic and success next year."