As Coach Gianni’s “Baby Falcons” grow, watch out for CSHS Softball!

By Pete Mohr

     CSHS – Wife (of Notre Dame Head Baseball Coach Guy Gianni), mother (of youngsters Gabriella, 8, & Antonio, 1 1/2) and hard-working realtor: you’d think that Danica Gianni had more than a full plate. Somehow, she’s finding/making time to take on the job of rebuilding Cactus Shadows’ softball program.
    Listen to this spirited lady’s enthusiasm: “Their attitude is awesome! We’re finally playing with solid fundamentals. I really sense a turning point.” Coach Gianni pointedly observes, “We’re taking more pride in our program, our field – and, most importantly, each other.”
    She singles out Co-Captains Breann Ferradino (“She leads on the field by example. I’ve got her at shortstop so that she can touch the ball as often as possible.”), a senior, and junior Lindsay Lagreid (“What a go-getter! Her first year playing a team sport, and the girls elected her a co-captain! Lindsay gets our spirits soaring off the field.” Coach Gianni also talks excitedly about Sophomores Kilee Ferguson (pitcher), Maria Carranza (freshman 3rd base) and outfielder Sam Bryan. Freshman Kim Ward catches Ferguson and returning senior Nikki Horton. “I’m really pleased that Nikki decided to rejoin us,” Gianni commented. “She’s a great kid!”
   “Coach G.” lights up when talking about “Falcon Fastpitch Softball,” a/k/a the “Baby Falcons,” the LadyBirds’ “farm system,” recently organized at the suggestion/initiative of softball parents Bob & Ember Hartsock, whose daughter, Elyssa, an 8th grader, plays for Desert Arroyo. For softballers, age 10-16, the “BabyFalcons” will play May through January. “Look at what DFAC’s programs do for basketball and soccer; Foothills Little League for baseball; and American Youth Football for football,” Gianni directed Sonoran News. “Now softball will have a talent-developing program of our own. I believe we’ll start seeing results next season.”
    For right now, the Lady Falcons are playing hard – and having fun. The “Ws” are sure to come. Good luck to “Coach G.” and her girls!