High School Sports: 10 Stories to Watch in 2025

Rhode Island Spring Sports Outlook

High School Softball: Teams to Watch

As the new softball season approaches, there are several teams that are expected to make a strong impact in Rhode Island. Some returning powerhouses to watch include Anna Costello, Alyssa Twomey, and Sami Simonds.

Anna Costello, a freshman standout from Moses Brown, didn’t take long to make an impact as one of the best pitchers in Rhode Island. She also served as the Quakers’ most feared hitter and had a monstrous year at the plate, batting .349 with five homers.

Alyssa Twomey, a junior from Pilgrim, established herself in the circle and at the plate, helping the Patriots field a team that nearly won the state title. Twomey was huge in the biggest moments all season long, including a huge performance in Game 2 of the state finals.

Sami Simonds, a senior from St. Raphael, is a first-team All-Stater and a force to be reckoned with on the mound. She has an edge like few pitchers in the state and when she’s in the circle, there are no smiles – Simonds is there to intimidate and dominate.

Additionally, Bay View has a promising 1-2 pitching combo in Emily Heath and Sarah Trosin, who verbally committed to Winthrop and Sacred Heart, respectively.

High School Baseball: Emerging Storylines

This spring, Rhode Island’s high school baseball scene is filled with new talent and emerging storylines. Some promising young players to watch include those from St. Raphael and Pilgrim.

St. Raphael’s junior standout, Sami Simonds, was a first-team All-Stater and a force to be reckoned with on the mound last season. She’s expected to lead the Saints to another strong season.

Pilgrim’s junior standout, Alyssa Twomey, was huge in the biggest moments all season long, including a huge performance in Game 2 of the state finals. She’s expected to lead the Patriots to another strong season.

Coventry’s Sam Bergantino and Hannah Hawley are also expected to make a strong impact this season. Bergantino was a model of consistency in the circle for the Oakers, while Hawley will be back behind the plate as both a terrific defensive catcher and one of the most feared hitters in Rhode Island.

Burrillville/North Smithfield’s duo of juniors, Julianna Colbert and Samantha Ledger, are also expected to make a strong impact this season. Colbert is a 6-foot tall ace, and Ledger is a power hitter.

The Quest for a State Title

This spring, several teams are expected to make a strong push for the state title. Coventry and Burrillville/North Smithfield are among the top contenders, and both teams have a strong chance of making it to the championship series.

Coventry’s Sam Bergantino and Hannah Hawley will be a key duo in the Oakers’ quest for the title. Bergantino’s consistency on the mound and Hawley’s power at the plate will be crucial in helping the Oakers overcome their opponents.

Burrillville/North Smithfield’s duo of juniors, Julianna Colbert and Samantha Ledger, will be a key combination in the Northmen’s quest for the title. Colbert’s size and strength on the mound, combined with Ledger’s power at the plate, will be a formidable combination for opposing teams to face.

Coaching Changes and Team Dynamics

As the spring sports season approaches, one of the most significant factors that can impact a team’s performance is a change in coaching leadership. The departure of a head coach can have far-reaching consequences, affecting not only the team’s on-field performance but also the dynamics within the team.

One notable example is the departure of Daniel Rose from North Providence. Rose, a highly respected coach, left a lasting impact on the team during his tenure. His departure has raised questions about the team’s ability to adapt to a new coaching style and maintain their competitive edge.

According to experts, a change in coaching leadership can be a significant challenge for a team, particularly if the new coach has a different coaching style or philosophy. “When a new coach comes in, it can be a bit of a culture shock for the players,” said a local sports analyst. “The new coach may have different expectations, and the players may need time to adjust to a new system.”

However, some teams have been able to thrive despite coaching changes. For example, the Coventry softball team, which won the state title last season, has a new coach this season. Despite this change, the team is expected to remain competitive, thanks in part to the strong leadership of its senior players.

The key to success in the face of coaching changes is often the ability of the team to adapt quickly to the new coach’s style and philosophy. This can be achieved through open communication, trust, and a willingness to learn. “When players feel comfortable with the new coach and understand what is expected of them, they are more likely to perform well,” said a local coach.

The Effect of Scheduling on Performance

Scheduling can have a significant impact on a team’s performance, particularly in high school sports. A challenging schedule can push a team to its limits, forcing them to adapt and grow in response to strong opponents.

One of the biggest challenges that teams face is playing top-level teams. These teams often have more experienced players, better coaching, and more resources, making them formidable opponents. However, playing these teams can also be a valuable learning experience for less experienced teams.

“Playing top-level teams can be intimidating, but it’s also a great opportunity for our players to learn and grow,” said a local coach. “We try to approach these games with a positive mindset, focusing on what we can learn from the experience rather than just the outcome.”

Another challenge that teams face is the physical and mental demands of a long season. High school sports seasons can be grueling, with teams often playing multiple games per week. This can take a toll on players, particularly those who are not used to playing at this level.

However, some teams have been able to adapt to challenging schedules and stay competitive. For example, the Bay View softball team, which moved up to Division I this season, has a strong 1-2 pitching combo that is expected to help them compete against top-level teams.

The key to success in the face of a challenging schedule is often the ability of the team to stay focused and motivated. This can be achieved through strong leadership, team chemistry, and a positive mindset. “When players feel supported and motivated, they are more likely to perform well, even in the face of challenging opponents,” said a local sports analyst.

Spring Sport Storylines Beyond Softball and Baseball

The Impact of Athlete Development on Team Performance

Athlete development is a critical factor in a team’s success, particularly in high school sports. When athletes are able to develop their skills and reach their full potential, they are more likely to perform well and contribute to the team’s success.

One of the key factors in athlete development is training. A well-designed training program can help athletes improve their skills and reach their full potential. “When athletes are able to train consistently and effectively, they are more likely to see improvements in their performance,” said a local coach.

Another factor in athlete development is nutrition. A healthy diet is essential for athletes, providing them with the energy and nutrients they need to perform at their best. “When athletes fuel their bodies with healthy foods, they are more likely to perform well and recover quickly from injuries,” said a local sports nutritionist.

Mental preparation is also a critical factor in athlete development. When athletes are able to prepare mentally for competition, they are more likely to perform well and stay focused under pressure. “When athletes are able to manage their nerves and stay focused, they are more likely to perform at their best,” said a local sports psychologist.

The key to success in athlete development is often the ability of the team to provide a supportive environment that allows athletes to grow and develop. This can be achieved through strong leadership, positive team chemistry, and a focus on athlete development. “When athletes feel supported and encouraged, they are more likely to reach their full potential and contribute to the team’s success,” said a local coach.