In her third year at the helm, head coach Nicole O’Donnell has once again positioned the Babylon High School softball team as a top contender in League VII.
Known as a pitcher-heavy league with an influx of young talent, League VII is never easy, but O’Donnell and her squad have embraced the challenge with confidence and grit.
Coming off a league title last year, the Panthers knew the road to another championship wouldn’t be easy, especially after graduating six seniors. “This year was about reconnecting,” O’Donnell said. “We have a wide age range on the team, from 7th graders to seniors, and we’ve worked hard to build chemistry. It’s not just about winning, it’s about having fun and aligning our goals.”
Despite finishing second to Bayport-Blue Point in the regular season, Babylon has secured a playoff spot thanks to its 12-4 record and is eyeing the Class B championship with high hopes. In all 12 wins, the Panthers put up double digit run totals, including a season high against Center Moriches on April 10 in a 23-4 victory.
Leadership has played a crucial role in the team’s success. Senior corner infielder Kerin Tanner has been a key contributor since 8th grade, and her versatility is unmatched. Primarily a first baseman, Taylor has also played third base, outfield, and even pitched when needed. “She’ll do whatever it takes for the team,” O’Donnell said. Batting .531 with two home runs and 27 RBIs, Taylor is a constant threat at the plate, even when opponents try to pitch around her. “She knows that teams are hesitant to attack her but she’s still always ready.”
Behind the plate, sophomore catcher Eliana Romero brings poise and leadership well beyond her 10th-grade status. “She’s a silent leader,” said O’Donnell. “She steadies the team with her calm presence and strong relationship with the pitching staff.” Romero is hitting .442 with a home run.
In the circle, 8th grader Sofia Hagerty-Cori has carried the pitching load entirely on her own. Logging 88 innings with 88 strikeouts, Cori has proven she belongs at this level and then some. “She’s always ready to go,” said O’Donnell. “Her future is incredibly bright.”
The youth movement doesn’t stop there. Seventh grader Addy Janawsky and her .383 batting average have made an immediate impact at second base. “She plays with a maturity beyond her years,” said O’Donnell. “She’s earned her spot through consistency and a strong work ethic.”
In the outfield, junior Carissa Arena has shown elite athleticism, capable of patrolling all three positions. “Her diving catches and relentless effort have saved countless runs and energized the team,” said O’Donnell.
Then there’s senior and five-year varsity player Hazel Bivona. A righty thrower but lefty batter, Bivona can slap, bunt, or hit for power. With a .455 average and a staggering .657 on-base percentage, teams still struggle to find a way to keep her off the bases.
What stands out most about Babylon softball isn’t just the talent, it’s the unity. “They mesh so well together,” O’Donnell said. “I see them in the classroom and on the field, and it’s amazing to watch them grow and support each other. They love the game, and they want to succeed.”
