Kaelyn Hawa is an ASU Cronkite Journalism student assigned to cover Coronado High School for AZPreps365.com

SCOTTSDALE — Coronado (0-15) faced challenges both on and off the field this season, navigating limited funding and on-field growing pains. 

With fewer resources than some of its opponents, Coronado finds ways to stay motivated and make the most of what it has. No matter how lopsided games became, the Dons celebrated the small moments — supporting one another, and bringing energy to each game. 

Athletic Director Pierre Rivera said that due to the school’s smaller population size, the amount of money it earns from participation fees in sports is less than that of larger schools.

Rivera also said that the money they earn from participation fees helps pay for buses and referees. 

“This hurts us when purchasing equipment and uniforms,” Rivera said.

While funding challenges may impact the program, that doesn’t change how the Dons carry themselves and play. The team refuses to let shortcomings define them. 

Senior pitcher Miranda Moreno, who pitched for just the second time in her softball career against the Yuma Criminals on March 30, said at the time that the team motivated her to keep playing hard every game. Teammate and fellow senior pitcher Naomi Garcia also credited the team as what kept her motivated.

“Cheering each other on helps a lot,” Garcia said. 

During mistakes, players and coaches stayed engaged. They offered each other encouragement after every play.

Head coach Ileana Rocha said the team’s mindset and motivation start with the players' desire to improve.

“They want to continue becoming better players and better athletes,” Rocha said. 

After every game, the team gathered on the outfield grass. The players formed a circle, sitting while the coaches stood and went over aspects of the game. But instead of focusing on the negatives, they focused on the positives and pushed the team to be its best.

“Even if we're having the worst day possible, it doesn’t matter, we still have to play our best,” Garcia said. “Even if our best is 10%, we have to give all 10%.”

Early in the season, the Dons tended to be hard on themselves. But just past the midway point of their season, that has changed.

“The girls have been able to shake off their mistakes a lot faster,” Rocha said. “It’s one of the biggest things for us.”