Did you hear the news? Guess who’s back in town?

Opening day for the Ma’ayanot Rapids softball team could not have gone better. Coaches Yoni Lieber and Kayla Levine got the team ready, while Gabi Lerner ’16 led the team pre-game cheer. The first inning was incredible, which included Sarah Berman’s ’18 triple, earning her 3 RBIs. This catcher can bat! By the end of the first inning Ma’ayanot had 8 runs, and ran through its batting order one and a half times.

In the second inning Ma’ayanot second baseman and co-captain Elisheva Katz ’16 caught a pop-up, making an incredible first out. Kate Weinberg ’18, who subbed for Katz in the fourth inning, made a similar fantastic catch. Outfielder and co-captain Sima Zand ’16 hit a double bringing home Adina Rosenberg ’16 and Elisheva, as well as moving pitcher and co-captain Noa Appelbaum ‘17 to third.

Of course, no game would be complete without the count of batters that Noa struck out. In the season opener Noa struck out eight players, starting the season off on a high note. This game turned into a family affair, as Adira Levine’s ’18 siblings, parents and grandparents brought a picnic dinner. Fans of all ages, including Ma’ayanot staff members, classmates, family members and friends, braved the cold weather to come cheer on the team, as they began their quest to repeat as MYHSAL Softball League champions. Opening day was a success, and there are only high hopes ahead for these champions!

Coming soon: Ma’ayanot vs. Heschel at the FDU softball field on Sunday, April 17, at 5 p.m.

By Shalva Faber