Our Whitney Young Dolphins are once again city champions! This time it was our Dolphins softball team defeating Lane Tech in a thrilling 8-7 comeback win. This is the Dolphins’ second championship in as many years, and I was able to catch up with star shortstop Ashley Bravo 18’ after the game. Ms. Bravo is a three year starter on the varsity squad, and has already committed to Purdue Northwest. I am very grateful she took the time for this interview.

Rivera: What were your first thoughts on the game?

Bravo: We started out rough. Lane had the momentum, but we stuck through, and I’m proud of the team for not giving up, even when we were down four runs.

Rivera: Was there a play when you knew that your team was going to come back?

Bravo: Yes! When Jess {Perez 17’} hit the two out single in the sixth to start the rally.

Rivera: A two out hit with nobody on???!!!!

Bravo: Yeah. With Yaz {Hernandez 17’} having such a good on base percentage and with the top of the lineup after her.

Rivera: What was different about this year’s’ championship?

Bravo: Last year we made Whitney Young softball history with the first city championship; there were so many people who didn’t think we could do it. This season gave us confidence because we knew we were the favorites and wanted to show that we could go out and win it again.

Rivera: What was special about this year’s win?

Bravo: The comeback! We could’ve easily given up and accepted that we were gonna lose, but we picked each other up.

      Congratulations, once again, to the Dolphins for their second city championship! Ms. Bravo and her teammates are ready to make more Whitney Young history by winning a Sectional championship. I, along with the rest of Whitney Young, wish them the best of luck in the state tournament.