Oak Park High School softball has stepped up its game for the 2025 season. There are a whopping 12 freshmen on the team this year—four times the number of seniors—so the team has a ton of new talent excited to get involved. In addition to new players, Casey Preston is the new softball coach.

“Our program has definitely taken a step up,” freshman Charlie Crivello wrote to the Talon. “From players to coaches, we’re all ready to work as hard as we can.”

Due to the many fresh faces, morale is at an all-time high. The team is taking the beginning of the semester to get to know each other and enjoy their time together. These friendships and comradery are what make the team unique.

“I think because the team is so close we have really good team chemistry,” freshman Maya Iles wrote to the Talon.

This season softball is working to build important skills, primarily confidence and assertiveness in their actions.

“When you’re in the 6th inning and the game is running slow, you still need to be ready because that’s when the ball is coming to you,” Crivello wrote.

In a welcoming environment, the players can be bolder and take those game-changing risks, which makes every catch more exciting.

“I know that I can go out onto the field and no matter what happens my teammates will support me,” Crivello wrote.

Varsity softball plays against Rio Mesa High School and JV plays against Thousand Oaks High School in their next games on Feb. 21.

“I’m super excited to see where the season goes from here,” sophomore Sophia Casella said.

For more updates on games and more, check out the OPHS Website or the Instagram @ophs_softball.