SARATOGA, CA – The Cypress Chargers Softball team concluded their remarkable season as runner-ups in the 3C2A State Championship, marking their 31st state tournament appearance. Traveling up north as the defending state champions, the Chargers entered the tournament on an impressive 11-game win streak, having swept through two regional playoff rounds against College of the Canyons and Orange Coast College.
As the South's No. 2 seed, Cypress opened the tournament against the North's No. 3 seed, Cosumnes River College, securing a 7-3 victory with solo home runs from sophomores Jaylene Duarte and Lizbeth Gomez. However, the Chargers faced a setback in their next game, falling 3-0 to San Joaquin Delta College, the North's No. 1 seed. This loss placed Cypress in the elimination bracket for the remainder of the tournament.
Refocusing their efforts, the Chargers bounced back with a 7-1 win over Palomar College, highlighted by Kaitlyn Reynolds' solo home run. Cypress then faced Mt. San Antonio College in another elimination game, where they dominated with an 8-run first inning, ultimately winning 10-0 in just five innings, propelled by Mikala Jacobsen's home run and 3 RBIs.
In the semifinals, Cypress sought redemption against San Joaquin Delta College. In a closely contested game, Julia Doan's double brought in Jacobsen for a walk-off win, securing a 3-2 victory and advancing the Chargers to the final round.
Facing district rivals Fullerton College in the championship, Cypress needed two wins to defend their title. In the first game, a solo home run by Doan tied the game at 1-1, and a late push in the bottom of the 5th inning secured a 4-1 victory, forcing a decisive second game. Despite an early 2-0 lead in the final game, Fullerton rallied back, taking the championship with a 6-2 win.
Over the course of four days, Cypress competed in seven intense games, showcasing resilience and skill. Four Chargers were named to the 2024 3C2A Championship All-Tournament Team: Kaitlyn Reynolds as Most Valuable Pitcher, Julia Doan as Best Hitter, Infielder Jaylene Duarte, and Outfielder Nanea Kyle.
