The Parkland High School softball team had an unusual year for its normal standards in 2023.

The defending Eastern Pennsylvania Conference champions entering the season fell just short of qualifying for the tournament this year and never ended up winning a postseason game, falling to Pleasant Valley 2-0 in the District 11 6A first round last Tuesday, May 23.

It was not the type of season the Trojans are accustomed to, also having won districts back in 2019 and competing in the final game and even into states in years past.

Head coach Barry Search still had positive feedback from the season that was.

“It was a good season overall in the grand scheme of things,” said Search, who’s program finished with a 9-11 overall record and 9-7 mark in the conference. “There were a couple of games that we wish we could have back. A bunch of one-run games where we had several chances to win, but could not get that important hit we needed.

“But the girls really played hard all year and I’m proud of them.”

The final game against the Bears went along with what Search was describing.

Pleasant Valley, the ninth seed, playing at eighth-seeded Parkland, scored the game’s opening run in the top of the first inning, and then added another one in the fourth. The Trojans had runners in scoring position in multiple innings, but were unable to find the hit to bring them around home.

“We had stretches where we didn’t come up with the big hit,” Search said. “That was the whole season. That makes a difference in the game and during the season. Give credit to their pitcher, she threw a great game. But we just were unable to get that timely hit when we needed it most.”

Sophomore Allison Hunsberger led the offense with two hits, while classmates Anna Belleteieri and Maria Moore both finished with a hit to round out the offense. That trio, along with freshman Addison Fritzinger, give Search and Parkland a strong core group returning for next season.

“I think we’re going to be good next year,” said Search. “There were a lot of sophomores this year, and we started a freshman. It’s just going to be about seeing how they mature over the offseason and if they can continue to get better and take that next step to help us get back to winning championships.”

Senior Evelyn Montone was named to the All-EPC Second Team as an outfielder.

“She had a very good year,” said Search. “She had her plate full too. She’s involved in choir too so she is very well-rounded. Just a great student-athlete and representative of the program.”