Building a Legacy: Knights Softball Sets Sights on 2026 After Breakout Season

The 2025 season marked a significant step forward for the Gill St. Bernard's Varsity Softball team, finishing with a balanced record of 13-13—the most wins ever since 2022. The Knights secured impressive victories over two-time county champion Immaculata and Prep B champion Montclair Kimberley Academy (MKA), underscoring the team's competitive fire and upward trajectory.

For the fourth straight year, the Knights reached the Prep B final, and they advanced to the State Sectional semifinals for the fourth time in the past five seasons.

"What I'm most proud of is how this team stuck together—through the highs and lows. They came to work daily and learned to be resilient and persevere,” said Head Varsity Coach Michael Surella.

The team was led by senior Captain and four-year starter Emily Titsworth, who anchored the roster on and off the field. Titsworth capped off her high school career with over 250 strikeouts and 40 career wins and will continue her softball journey at Juniata College next year. Her leadership left a lasting legacy.

"Emily Titsworth has been the heart of this team,” said Coach Surella.” She's a fierce competitor, a calming presence, and a true leader. Her impact won't soon be forgotten."

Juniors Ella Martinelli, Isabella Mecca, Samantha Kalinak, Brynn McCarthy, and Lexi Kolenski all delivered their best statistical seasons to date. Martinelli, Mecca, and Kalinak are each poised to reach the 100 career-hit milestone next year—a testament to their consistency and power at the plate.

Sophomores Charlotte Brown and Mac Weese emerged as the team's most improved players, showing remarkable growth and development throughout the spring. Meanwhile, the freshman class brought fresh energy and impact, with Reagan Scalfani and Julia Ward earning valuable playing time and stepping up when called upon. Fellow freshmen Sophia Corrado, Olivia Corrado, and Callie Witte rounded out a promising class, contributing to the team's depth and displaying significant progress by season's end.

"This group learned to stay the course, trust the process, and push each other,” said Coach Surella “That mindset will be crucial as we gear up for an even stronger 2026."

Looking ahead, the future looks bright. With a core group of returning upperclassmen, including rising star pitcher Julia Ward '28, and a talented incoming freshman, the Knights are well-positioned to take the next step. The goals remain ambitious: contend for a Skyland Conference and County title, win the Prep B Championship, and advance to a State Sectional final.