The softball team has definitely struggled in recent years, but with the hiring of new head coach Jim Patterson, the Atoms seeked to turn their season around.

Although things might not have gone as planned, a 15-11 win over rival W.T. Woodson High School on April 5 gave the girls exactly what they needed, confidence.

“We felt pretty good. We realized that we just have to play the game and not overthink things because it throws us off,” sophomore Elizabeth Corcoran said.

They had planned to carry that confidence into their next game against Washington-Lee High School, but due to heavy rain, the game was postponed to May 2.

“I was really disappointed when the game got postponed because we were not able to play,” Corcoran said. “Plus, we were excited because they are in a difference conference so it would have been an even match.”

The next day brought another conference game against top ranked Lake Braddock Secondary School, which the Atoms fell to the Bruins 20-0.

“We feel very disappointed that we lost, but with every loss comes experience,” said senior Elise Kim. “Hopefully we’ll be able to learn from our mistakes and this loss, and win the next game.”

The season is still young and there are many games left in the season. A couple of bad losses does not reflect the whole season. The players know this and are optimistic of their upcoming games.

With two games this week, the Atoms are hoping for at least one win this week, especially against Mount Vernon High School, who is new to the conference this year.

“During spring break we faced them in the Hayfield tournament. We learned that they are a strong team but nothing so extreme where a little practice won’t help,”  Kim said.

“As long as we keep practicing strong and developing our skills and techniques, we will definitely be able to defeat them someday. Hopefully that day will be this Friday when we play them.”

The Atoms softball team will play West Potomac High School April 12, and Mount Vernon on April 15, both start at 6:30 and both are at home. Come out and support your Atoms!