For most freshmen, the transition from lower level sports to high school sports is drastic and rocky. While many struggle to make the JV team to begin with, starting on the varsity team is a feat that is even more difficult to achieve.

By contrast, this change was not difficult for sophomore Hera Tang. As a freshman, she defied the odds and started on the varsity softball team.

Tang, who plays third base and pitches has been playing softball since she was 9 and enjoys every minute of it.

“I really like pitching,” Tang said, “it’s always challenging and overall pretty fun actually.”

Pitching may be Tang’s favorite position, but it is not the only one she excels at. Facing much older competition last year, Tang hit .333 with 1 home run and 13 runs batted in.
Looking at the team this year, Tang sees reason for optimism.

“The team looks great,” said Tang, “there are more players with experience and everyone gets along very well so I think we are going to have a fantastic season.”

Even though Tang personally feels that she has not improved much from last year, she believes that the team has significantly improved from last year.

“As a team, I think we’re stronger as most of the girls have improved immensely, there are more club players, and everyone works really hard,” Tang said.

Aside from playing on the school team, Tang plays club softball for the Los Gatos-Saratoga Magic.

Tang said that she would really like to play softball after college and says that she will have to just keep playing and see what happens.

Tang’s versatility on the field makes her an integral part of the team.

“Hera is a great pitcher and she is a great batter as well. She hits with a lot of power and her support and cheerfulness make her a great teammate all around,” sophomore shortstop Mandy Lee said.

As a whole Tang enjoys softball, but one of the things that stands out the most to her is the team aspect.

“My favorite part of softball is bonding with the team,” Tang said. “As we all get to be better friends, we also improve in games, which is always fun to see.”