Entering the 2026 softball season, Senior Alyssa Castillo is ready to give her all for a successful last season. From playing varsity as a freshman to being a future college athlete at Menlo University, Castillo knows how to put in the work and get results.

   Being a student athlete, Castillo has to be able to balance it all. “I balance my responsibilities as a student athlete by having good time management skills and not procrastinating, especially with softball every day,” said Castillo.

  Softball is a stressful game, with going up to bat and making plays in the field. “I would say when it comes to handling pressure, I just try to simplify the situation or game scenario that I’m in. It definitely helps me relax and loosen up, especially during tough games,” said Castillo.

   Castillo is excited to be a leader on the team and go far with her team this season. “My personal goal for this year is to just be a good role model for some of my younger teammates and lead by example. I would say my team goals are competing to win our League and to get a spot in CIF playoffs,” Castillo said.

     With her senior season starting, Castillo is thankful for high school softball and is ready to play in college. “I’m super excited for college softball. I feel as though high school softball has helped me with the more emotional side of the game, which I think has set me up perfectly for college ball,” said Castillo.

   After coaching Castillo for the past three years, Assistant Coach Kelsey Jenkins has seen her grow into a great player. “It has been amazing watching Alyssa’s growth as a player and leader since her freshman year,” said Jenkins.

   Jenkins said she has enjoyed having Castillo on the team, because she is a great teammate and player. “Alyssa is a passionate player on the field, and she has great energy on our offense and defense. She has great leadership, brings fun to the dugout, is a powerful bat and has amazing defense in every game,” Jenkins said.

   Teammate Junior Sydni Sandoval thinks highly of Castillo as a cornerstone to the team. “Alyssa is a standout teammate because she is dependable, always tries her hardest, and supports every one of her teammates no matter the situation,” said Sandoval.

   Sandoval also feels very supported by Castillo and is glad to have her inspiration on the team. “One time, I was having a bad game, so I got down on myself, and it was noticeable. Alyssa came to me and had a talk with me, which made me feel better. After that, I realized it was all in my head,” Sandoval said.

         Being on the field with Castillo is a bright light for Sandoval, making the team feel connected and tight-knit. “Her performance inspires the team to work, push harder, and to trust each other on and off the field,” said Sandoval.

    Castillo is a standout student-athlete who shines both on and off the field. After successful years on the team, Castillo is ready for the future ahead, so make sure to pop out to UC High softball games to support the upcoming Menlo star.  Before she leaves to Menlo to live out her collegiate dreams, be sure to support her and the other Cents at the upcoming games.