MidValleySports.Com

Haylie Garcia turning a double play in their quarterfinals game.

By Luis Martinez

(La Puente) – For the first time in school history, the Workman softball team has advanced to the CIF Southern Section semifinals, continuing a remarkable turnaround for a program that went winless just two seasons ago.

The journey has been years in the making. Two seasons ago, Workman finished 0-16. Last season, the Lobos took a major step forward, finishing 12-8, placing second in league, and earning the program’s first CIF playoff appearance in at least a decade. This season, Workman continued its rise by placing third in a highly competitive league that included Division 2 Ganesha High School and Division 7 Edgewood High School, another team that will also compete in a semifinal this weekend.

Head coach Kristine Sanchez said the historic run still feels surreal.

“Last year, when we made our first CIF appearance in at least a decade, we were simply grateful for the opportunity to compete in that first round and put up a good fight,” Sanchez said. “Now, looking back at each round this season, our message has stayed the same: stay united, be grateful for the opportunity, and remember we have nothing to lose and everything to gain.”

As a Workman alumn herself, Sanchez said the moment carries even more meaning.

“It’s honestly emotional to see just how far this program has come,” Sanchez said. “Even with declining enrollment numbers over the years, we’ve still managed to come together and make a historic playoff run. I think that says a lot about the heart of this program and the people behind it.”

Sanchez also credited the many alumni, parents, and supporters who have dedicated countless hours to helping build the program.

When asked what makes this year’s team special, Sanchez pointed to the work ethic and resilience the players have developed since the summer.

“The girls have consistently come in for extra reps whenever given the opportunity, and we’ve seen tremendous growth across the board,” Sanchez said. “One of the biggest improvements has been their ability to bounce back after adversity. From day one, one of our biggest messages has been, ‘Shake off the mistake. It’s in the past. Focus on the next play or next at-bat.’”

The Lobos’ offense has been explosive throughout the postseason, outscoring opponents 53-14 through the first three playoff games.

One player who has helped lead the way is senior captain and pitcher McKenna Weller. Naturally a shortstop, Weller stepped into the pitching role last season to help push the team forward.

Weller said the playoff run has been unforgettable.

“This playoff run has been an absolute dream come true,” Weller said. “Knowing we are making school history makes every early morning practice, every tough loss, and every extra inning worth it. My teammates and I aren’t just playing for ourselves — we are playing for each other, for our school, and for everyone who believed in us.”

“We have grown closer, matured as a team, and developed a level of confidence that is unstoppable. This is more than just softball, it’s a sisterhood that will last a lifetime, and we are so proud to put Workman on the map.”

Despite the historic run, the Lobos remain a young team. Sanchez highlighted underclassmen Sydney Rivera and Haylie Garcia as key contributors. Rivera has stepped in to handle pitching duties, while Garcia earned All-Miramonte League First Team honors this season.

With a small roster, versatility has become one of the team’s strengths, as players have embraced different roles whenever needed.

Weller also shared a message for the younger players who will continue building the program after she graduates.

“Believe in yourselves,” Weller said. “You don’t need to be perfect to be successful — you just need to have passion, work hard, and never give up on your dreams. The work you put in when no one is watching is what makes you a champion.”

“Be brave, be confident, and enjoy the game. You are stronger than you know, and if you fight with heart and support your teammates, you can achieve anything — even making history. Keep working hard, trust the process, and always have resilience.”

The Lobos will now face a tough San Bernardino High School team that has also put up impressive offensive numbers throughout the postseason.

The CIF semifinal matchup will take place Saturday, May 23, at 3:15 p.m. at Lobo Softball Field, with Workman looking to continue its historic season.