BY NATE KOTISSO | STAFF WRITER
Eric Madera was in his first season leading PSJA High last year, and while his team’s 9-16 overall record didn’t spell immediate success, he saw that his young group of girls had the potential to turn into a competitive ballclub.
Two weeks into district play, Madera’s Bears are more than competitive. They sport a 12-6 record with a 2-1 mark in District 31-6A.
“There’s a big difference this year,” Madera said. “Last year, I started five freshmen, and we were really young. They’re all sophomores now, and you can tell how mature they’ve become. They’ve really come together as a team. They were disappointed that we finished fifth (in district), and they’ve worked really hard to try and get back to the playoffs.”
Korrie Cantu and Vivika Villarreal are two sophomores who have taken giant steps forward. Cantu is hitting .605 with 28 runs scored, 26 hits, six doubles and three triples, leading the team in each category. Villarreal is right behind Cantu with a .561 batting average, and she also serves as the club’s No. 2 starting pitcher (1-1, 1.40 ERA) behind junior Elaine Madera.
“They’re big time,” Eric Madera said. “Korrie’s come a long way and is now my leadoff hitter. Vivika is incredible. She’s been our shortstop and our second starter. When I’ve asked her to pitch, she’s come out and done very well. Kids like her have stepped into roles that a lot of them couldn’t do last year.”
The Bears will face arguably their toughest district test yet when they travel to Edinburg to take on the Edinburg High Bobcats at 7 tonight. PSJA is one of four 2-1 teams behind 3-0 EHS in the district standings.