GUERRERO GUIDES COUGARS WITH STELLAR PERFOMANCE

By Gabie Tesoro

On a bright Saturday morning, the Academy Cougars faced off against the JFK Islanders in an early-season softball matchup. JFK brought a challenging defense, but the Cougars relied on strong teamwork and fundamentals to open their season with a 9-1 win.

Academy’s success came from sharp defense and aggressive baserunning. While senior pitcher Sadie Guerrero led the way in the circle, the victory was the result of a full team effort.

BIG START SETS THE TONE

The Cougars got on the board in the second inning when Angelina Guerrero reached base and stole, followed by a bunt from Kiersten Fernandez that brought in the game’s first run.

Academy pulled away in the third inning, scoring five runs with smart baserunning and strong hitting. Mylie Butters reached on a walk and later scored, Kaia Chiguina laid down a key bunt, and Aubrey Manibusan doubled down the right-field line to drive in a run. By the end of the inning, the Cougars held a 5–0 lead.

JFK responded defensively with strong plays of their own. A hard-hit ball from Mariana Terlaje was caught by Jaelyn Han, a key out that helped bring energy to the Islanders.

LOCKED IN ON DEFENSE

The Islanders continued to battle and challenge Academy on offense. In the fourth inning, JFK loaded the bases, but the Cougars held it down without giving up a run.

“That confidence comes from experience, and we want to pass that mindset on to the younger girls,” Guerrero said when asked how the team was able to respond to JFK’s great plays.

GUERRERO SHINES

Guerrero held an impressive 10 strikeouts and only allowed one hit that came at the 6th inning. But Guerrero wasn’t just dominant on the mound, she also made a huge impact at the plate, going 4-for-4 and delivering key hits when her team needed them most.

STRONG FINISH

Academy added three more runs in the fifth inning. Aubrey Manibusan drove in a run with a hard-hit ball up the middle, while Angelina Guerrero and Fernandez kept the pressure on with crucial hits and smart baserunning.

JFK scored its lone run in the sixth inning, but Academy responded and closed out the game in the seventh to secure the 9–1 victory.

When asked about the team’s approach to the upcoming season, head coach Marissa Maratita-Matanane said the Cougars play by their motto, “Pressure is a privilege.” The team’s strong start reflects that mindset, showing that early success comes from effort and working together.

The Cougars now turn their focus to the upcoming matchup against George Washington, while the Islanders prepare to challenge Southern on Tuesday.

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