In an exciting final weekend of DLL Senior softball, the players clearly demonstrated their skill, growth, camaraderie and sportsmanship. After two tightly contested playoff games, the Washington Huskies claimed the championship title.
The festivities also included this year’s closing ceremonies where DLL honored some very special young ladies - our graduating seniors. We wish all of these amazing girls the best of luck as they start the next chapter of their lives.
Amy Zietsman-Brits:
Amy calls South Africa home and has been a member of DLL for the past four years. After graduation she will continue her studies at university in the US.
Favorite memory: Family Fun Day
Coaches’ Comments: We missed her for much of the season, with that Curious George zipline broken wrist of hers. Absolutely buoyant, always helpful and supportive, fierce but fun as a barrel of monkeys, everybody wants Amy on their side, both on and off the field.
Emily Rice:
Emily was born in Oceanside, CA. She was a newcomer this year at DLL (and to Dubai). She will continue her studies at a college in the US.
Favorite memory: Having the opportunity to play and making new friends.
Coaches’ Comments: This was her first and last season at DLL. Playing softball for the first time in 5 years, she brought a fantastic attitude and had a huge impact on the team! Emily is a wonderful player and better person.
Haruka Katsuda:
Haruka is from Tokyo, Japan and has been playing at DLL for three years. She plans to study economics and politics at university.
Favorite memory: The playoffs at the end of my first year at DLL.
Coaches’ Comments: Never stopped working, never stopped improving, Haruka brings a strength and resilience to everything she does that helps everyone find their inner calm monster at the ballpark.
Maxine Marahay:
Maxine is from the Philippines and has played Softball at DLL for the past three years. She plans to slowly pursue her dreams of traveling the world by taking aviation while exploring new places along the way.
Favorite memory: Mixed-team scrimmages
Coaches’ Comments: Always there supporting teammates and always willing to lend a hand to help in any way she can (getting the pitching machine set up ahead of practice, shagging balls, staying late etc.). Just an all around amazing teammate!
Mikoto Kumano:
Mikoto hails from Tokyo, Japan and has played at DLL for the past three years. Her adventure continues as she moves on to a foundation course in the Netherlands.
Favorite memory: Travel team at the Seabyst tournament in Singapore.
Coaches’ Comments: You always want Mikoto leading off, wrapping her energy and intensity in a fun-loving and light-hearted smile while vacuuming up the balls and swinging that giant bat.