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Orange Coast College Softball Team Reaches State Championship

The Orange Coast College softball team celebrating their state championship berth.

News Summary

The Orange Coast College softball team has made history by securing a state championship berth for the first time in 32 years. With an overall record of 33-9 and a stellar performance in the Orange Empire Conference, the Pirates celebrated their success, marked by key players and strong leadership from Coach Jodie Kiaha. As they prepare for the 3C2A SoCal Super Regionals, the team’s resilience and teamwork shine through, promising an exciting playoff journey ahead.

Costa Mesa, California – The Orange Coast College softball team has made history by securing a state championship berth for the first time in 32 years. The Pirates achieved this milestone by finishing their season with an impressive overall record of 33 wins and 9 losses, and an Orange Empire Conference (OEC) record of 15 wins and 3 losses.

The culmination of their successful season came on April 24, 2025, when the team celebrated a co-conference championship. This success led them to a decisive victory against Fullerton College on May 10, 2025, allowing them to advance to the state championship.

This season has been particularly notable for the performance of several key players. Sophomore third baseman Jasmyn Morales shone brightly, being named the Orange Empire Conference Player of the Year and earning a place on the 3C2A South All-State Team. Morales led the conference in home runs and secured second place in runs batted in, slugging percentage, and extra base hits.

Noteworthy contributions also came from Kelsey McNair, who made the 3C2A All-Southern Team with a batting average of .405 while leading the team with an earned run average (ERA) of 0.90. Meanwhile, Mackenzie Koshi garnered the 2025 Cal JC Rawlings Gold Glove Award at second base, boasting an impressive fielding percentage of .983.

On the pitching side, Daniella Sanchez also made the 3C2A All-Southern Team with a conference-leading ERA of 2.23, while maintaining an outstanding record of 13 wins and 1 loss. The Pirates were further bolstered by the contributions of Reyna Hernandez, Isabel Lopez, and Olivia Pedraza, who earned spots on the All-OEC Second Team.

Lopez led the team with 124 assists and contributed six home runs throughout the season. Pedraza had a significant impact during the playoffs, notably hitting a three-run home run that contributed to her total of 50 hits for the season. Despite not clinching the state title, Pedraza expressed pride in her team’s accomplishments and the strong bond they developed over the season.

Under the leadership of head coach Jodie Kiaha, who experienced her most successful season yet at Orange Coast College, the team’s hard work and dedication were pivotal in reaching this milestone. Coach Kiaha acknowledged the players’ contributions to the team’s growth and emphasized their leadership throughout the season, which was marked by strong energy and experience from overcoming close games.

Looking forward, the Pirates are set to compete in the 3C2A SoCal Super Regionals against Fullerton College on May 16, 2025. Key players entering the playoffs include Olivia Pedraza, Reyna Hernandez, and Kayla Vargas, who have all played essential roles in the team’s playoff success.

The Orange Coast College softball team’s achievement of reaching the state championship is a remarkable feat that highlights their resilience, teamwork, and dedication. As they head into the upcoming playoff rounds, the Pirates aim to build on their historic season and continue their journey toward ultimate triumph in state competition.