Undefeated Roseville Thunder All-Stars earn trip to California State Games

What began as an all-star season has turned into something special for the Roseville Thunder 8U All-Star softball team. Led by head coach Sarah Style, the Thunder have rolled to an 18-0 record while capturing championships at the Stars of Cordova Tournament in Rancho Cordova, the Piece of the Rock Tournament in Rocklin and the Sacramento Association Championships. Their latest title secured a berth to the California State Games from July 17-19 in San Diego. "We knew we had some really strong pitchers, but you don't really know how the competition is until you get out there and play," Style said. "After that first tournament, when we went 7-0, it was like, 'OK, we really have something special here.' " The Thunder has outscored opponents 139-17. The team's success has come from a combination of powerful hitting and dominant pitching. The Thunder own a .490 team batting average and a .584 on-base percentage despite facing exclusively player pitching in recent tournaments. Kaylani Henderson and Addison Gonzalez have helped lead the offense with Henderson batting .675 with 27 hits in 40 at-bats and a .711 on-base percentage, while Gonzalez carries a .583 average with a .605 on-base percentage. Pitchers Zayla Style, Emilia Straube and Reese Shade have been nearly unhittable. Over 74 innings, the three pitchers have combined for 196 strikeouts. "Our pitchers are dominant," Style said. "It's been really hot and we've had long days, but all the girls just pick each other up. They're strong when we need them to be." The Thunder's most recent championship may have been its most impressive. With illness spreading through the roster, Roseville entered the tournament shorthanded and competed with nine players, forcing the team to take an automatic out each time the 10th spot in the lineup came up. Players were asked to move into unfamiliar positions, yet the group battled its way to another championship. "They're resilient and they just keep fighting no matter what is thrown at them," Style said. "None of them have bad attitudes. They all give 100-percent effort every time, and the results show how much time and effort they're putting in." Style said the team's chemistry has been just as important as its talent. "They all have amazing attitudes," she said. "We've practiced hard and practiced in the heat, and they never give up." Now the Thunder will have the opportunity to represent Northern California at the California State Games. "Our goal is to do our best and have fun," Style said. "Ultimately, we'd love to take it all if we can, but we just want the girls to enjoy the experience and compete." The team is fundraising to help cover travel expenses for the trip. Roseville Thunder players will hold a "Fill the Helmet" fundraiser July 3 near the intersection by Costco, Dick's Sporting Goods and McDonald's in Roseville. The team is also accepting business sponsorships and donations for welcome baskets for the players. Those interested can reach out to sponsorship@rosevillegirlssoftball.org.