It might not compare with the annual swallows return to Capistrano, which occurred March 19, just two days before the Mounties returned to Myrtle Beach, but the South Williamsport softball team’s return to the Grand Strand Tournament was made to prepare them for the demanding schedule awaiting them in the 2025 season.

The team’s trip to South Carolina three years ago helped catapult it to a three-year run as District IV AA champions and a spot in last year’s state championship game, a goal definitely on the mind of the veteran team featuring eight players who participated in the Little League Softball World Series before their high school playing days.

The Mountaineers returned from their five-game stay in the Palmetto state at the top of the tournament ladder with a 4-1 record against 4 6A schools.

“I think our trip to Myrtle Beach was invaluable,” Mountie coach Tom O’Malley reasoned. “We knew going down, we’d face good competition, and that is part of the reason we went. We are going to be in tight games and need to learn how to play in those situations. We played larger schools, did pretty well, and hopefully we will get better from the experience.”

While success on the softball field is paramount, O’Malley’s charges enjoyed opportunities to bond off the field; the team attended a Coastal Carolina softball game, where former Loyalsock standout Amanda Danneker is the hitting coach, had team dinners, and participated in a team talent show.

“The games were important, but so was the team bonding opportunity. Sometimes, there may be some disparity between freshmen players and the older girls. Our seniors have played in many games all over the country, and the interactions they had with the younger girls brought our team closer together. That is why you do things like this.”

In 2022, third baseman/pitcher Kendall Cardone was a freshman concerned about fitting in with older teammates. She bonded well, remembered the experience, and this year returned the favor.

“When we had free time, I tried to include them more in what we were doing. I tried to talk to them as much as I could and sit by them when we went out to dinner and make sure they felt included in the conversations we were having.

“Some of them would come to me to ask questions before we got there as to what the fields were like and what to expect as to what the routine would be like. I tried to prepare them for what was to come. Once we were in Myrtle, they felt comfortable coming to me if they needed help. I remembered what it was like for me three years ago, and it was sort of like returning the favor for me.

“We were already bonded before the trip, but I think the time we were able to spend together will help us. For me, I feel more connected to the younger girls. From the conversations I shared with them, I think this trip really helped them. They don’t seem to be as scared as first-year players sometimes feel.”

On that previous trip, Maddie Pinkerton was an eighth-grade junior high player who served as a team manager. This time, the junior left fielder is an integral part of the team.

“Three years ago, it was fun coming down here, but it made me more eager to play and be a part of this team. This year, I know I have a job to do every time we step on the field. Playing these good teams and knowing I am a part of it is something I look forward to.

“I feel good about my start to the season. I think confidence is something that every player may lack at some point, and I think that getting off to a good start gives you a confidence boost and provides a preview of what you want your season to be.

“We are playing a tough schedule this year, and I think the caliber of the teams we played at Myrtle and everything we are doing is aimed at preparing us for our ultimate goal: making another run at a state championship. It’s the last year together with the seniors on the team, and we want to make it the best season possible.”

The benefits of the trip were felt by the team’s younger players.

“It was really exciting,” admitted sophomore infielder Allie Nolan. “I had fun being with the team and bonded with everybody. The seniors came to our room at the hotel and talked about softball and gave me advice about how to play to my fullest potential. I really had fun playing the games.

“The biggest thing I learned was to become more aggressive and take in the things the coaches are teaching me. Learning those things and then applying it on the field makes a difference.”

As an added bonus, she registered the first hit of her varsity career.

“That first hit was exciting, and hopefully, I will be able to get many more!”

“Playing larger school teams, the speed of the game is better, the pitching is good, hitters are better, overall, that is only going to help us,” O’Malley added. “We had good weather, played good teams and it is going to help us. It is tough to play five games in five days, but the girls really did a nice job.”

If early returns are any indication, O’Malley’s words may be heeded. In their first game back from the trip, the Mountaineers put up a 14-run first inning in a decisive 14-2 win over Hazelton.