Fifth-Seeded Hillel Girls’ Softball Team
Claims Championship
In an electrifying season filled with grit, determination, and teamwork, the fifth-seeded Hillel Heat Girls’ softball team defied the odds to capture the championship title under the new leadership of Jen Ruland and JT Truhan. This remarkable victory was powered by a balanced blend of experience and youthful energy, featuring six seniors: Norma Shamah, Arlyne Stein, Esther Safdieh, Shelley Massry, Rachel Saada, and Grace Bijou. They were joined by a talented group of underclassmen, including junior pitcher Marcelle Torkieh and standout sophomore shortstop Ruby Shalom, who all played crucial roles in the team’s success. Shalom was named the World Series MVP not only for her grand slam, which gave the team a comfortable lead, but also for her outstanding defensive efforts.
From the start, the team faced tough competition. They lost early on to Maayonot—undefeated going into the playoffs—and to Naaleh, who kept them scoreless in their first matchup. However, their resilience and unity kept them moving forward. The seniors brought leadership and poise, guiding the younger players through intense moments on and off the field. Meanwhile, the underclassmen contributed impressive performances, with Torkieh consistently dominating on the mound and freshman Jacqueline Ades delivering a key hit in the semifinals, helping them move past Maayonot. This was a moral victory for the entire team, who had lost to Maayonot not only earlier in the season but also in last year’s semifinals.
Throughout the playoffs, the team’s chemistry shone as they executed smart plays, strong defense, and clutch hitting. The infield, consisting of Dalia Sigoura (third base), Shalom (shortstop), Shamah (second base), and Saada, who stepped up to play first for the injured sophomore Charlotte Saka, was errorless in the postseason. The outfield, featuring Massry, Bijou, Stein, and Leah Rishty, held big hits to singles through strong communication and smart fielding.
As they approached the field for the championship game, the girls noticed that the trophies had been placed on Naaleh’s bench. They entered the game determined to make sure those trophies ended up where they belonged—on Hillel’s bench—and they did exactly that. This championship win was not just a triumph for the current roster, as they avenged an early-season loss, but also a foundation for continued success.
This year’s senior players are truly irreplaceable, but with such a talented mix of underclassmen, the team’s future looks incredibly promising. With star pitcher Torkieh returning, along with junior Rowena Kassin, as well as three starters—Rishty, Sigoura, and Shalom—and underclassmen Saka, Joy Zalta, Cookie Seruya, and Brenda Cohen, the Heat are already poised to chase another championship title.
This season would not have been as successful without the guidance and support of Rabbi Beitler, Rabbi Sadigh, Rabbi Kassin, and Sammy Saka. The girls also drew strength from the encouragement of their families and friends, who showed up and brought energy to the championship game. The coaches are truly thankful for the opportunity to lead such a wonderful group of girls and honored to be a small part of this amazing accomplishment.
Go Heat!
