As a new softball season begins this week, Orange Lutheran is preparing to chase another title and build on its winning tradition.

Having won five straight Trinity League championships, OLu fell in the first round of last year's CIF-SS Division 1 playoffs. With their entire pitching staff returning to the circle this year, and a roster of seasoned veterans, the Lancers have their eyes on another title run.

The Lancers will move forward without Trinity League MVP and OC Player of the Year Kai Minor, who is now competing at the University of Oklahoma. But OLu softball head coach Steve Miklos sees a balance with this year's roster that he believes will serve them well.

"I don't think we have that superstar, but we have some really good players," says Miklos. "And we've got good depth, good balance in our offense and defense. So I'm pretty excited about this season."

Miklos and the coaching staff will rely on their strong senior core to set the tone, led by senior shortstop Madelyn Armendariz, who is committed to Ole Miss.

OLu's pitching staff will feature four returners, including senior Jo Marsh (UCLA) and sophomores Savannah Doss, Charlee Pierpont and Rylee Silva, who was the 2025 Trinity League Co-Pitcher of the Year as a freshman. 

"I'm really excited with our pitching," says Miklos. "They pitched really well last year, and they're all back, and they're a year older. So, I think it bodes well for us, and I think they're all going to contribute."

The Lancers will also add two newcomers to the roster, senior infielder Morgan Fitzpatrick (University of Notre Dame) and sophomore infielder Melia Munoz. 

"Offensively, we're pretty balanced with speed and power," says Miklos. "And defensively, we really don't have any holes, so it should be a pretty good season."

OLu will play in a number of tournaments where they will take on several of the top teams in the area. The schedule includes the Dave Kops Tournament of Champions in Laughlin, Nevada (March 5-7), the Michelle Carew Classic (April 1-4) and the Best of the West Tournament held at Righetti High School in Santa Maria (April 9-11). 

Weather permitting, the Lancers will open their season this week at the SoCal's Best Showcase where they are scheduled to face Aliso Niguel, Chino Hills and Norco. Trinity League play begins March 27 when OLu hosts Mater Dei.

Miklos believes this year's squad is well-rounded, with seniors guiding the younger players and building team chemistry. He's confident the group has what it takes to put together a strong season.

"Our focus has been embracing a role and how do I be a better teammate, and I think it's really paying off," says Miklos. "It's a really good group of girls. They get along well together, which is really important in a team sport. It's just a great balance, a really good mix. I'm excited to see how we do this year."