Irvine 14-and-under softball squad places third in national tournament in Redding

Irvine’s 14-and-under team poses with the third place plaque. (photo courtesy Irvine softball 14-and-under team)

The Irvine girls 14-and-under all-star softball team recently placed third at the national tournament, which included a field of 40 teams.

The squad qualified in Fullerton at the district tournament on June 15 for the State tournament, which was held June 28-30 in Lancaster.

After a strong showing the team qualified for the USA Softball Fast Pitch Girls 14-and-under toiurnament in Redding later in July. The Irvine team lost to the Santa Paul all-stars 8-7 in its third game of the day. The game was played in 107 degree temperatures.

Members of the team were Bianca Vasquez, Emily Quis, Sisi Kerdiya, Raneem Kerdiya, Mayu Irvine, Nadeen Kerdiya, Sienna Porter, Elise Richardson, Millie Maher, Rachael McLaughlin, Olivia Shields, Sarah Hipszer, Mia Kanchanapoomi, Leilani Bambridge and Taylor Longoria.

The coaches were Laurie Hipszer, Matt Shields, Morre Bambridge, Dan McLaughlin and Pete Quis.