Consistency has been the best thing about the Derby Panthers softball team. In a year where they have dominated day in and day out, a 20-0 start comes down to being extremely consistent.
“I think leadership looks way different this year,” Demel said. “The senior class is a very united front and we are all super close friends, so nothing really drama-filled or anything like that is even a possibility on our team.”
That connection has translated directly onto the field.
“We all play off of each other super well and our energy is 100%, 100% of the time,” said Demel, who placed in state in tennis doubles and basketball this school year. “We intimidate a lot of teams by never getting down on ourselves when someone goes wrong and really being able to lean on each other in the tough moments.”
As a senior, Demel has taken on the challenge of balancing everything that comes with her final year, while still performing at a high level.
“I try to just be where my feet are and enjoy the opportunities God has given me,” Demel said. “It might look like a lot on my plate to some people and it can get stressful, but I have an amazing support system and a village of supporters behind me in everything that I do.”
Even with an undefeated record and a target on their backs every night, Derby has continued to embrace the challenge rather than shy away from it.
“Being one of the only undefeated schools in the state, and the only undefeated team in 6A, every game that we play is our next toughest battle,” Demel said. “Every team that we play wants to be the one to knock us off and end our hot streak. So I think how we handle adversity is staying close as a team, never letting outside noise get to us, and knowing what our goals are and knowing that they are not out of reach.”
At the center of it all, the consistency and winning, has been the bond the team has shared.
“My favorite part of the season is whenever I get to be around my teammates,” Demel said. “It is truly different this year the way we get along, everyone is always laughing and having a good time, but at the same time we are all focused and determined to win. So I think every moment is my new favorite moment with them and they are making my last few weeks as a panther unforgettable.”
For Demel and the Panthers, that combination of connection, focus and belief has been the reason they have been so successful.
