TRUCKEE, Calif. — Truckee High School’s varsity softball team made history this season, advancing to the regional playoffs for the first time in 25 years. The Wolverines not only ended a decades-long postseason drought but also finished the season ranked fourth in the state.

The achievement comes three years after Jason Borzello became head coach, stepping into the role when his daughter joined the Truckee High School softball team as a freshman.

“I always figured I’d be watching the games from the sidelines with the other parents,” said Borzello. “But this has been incredibly exciting. I can’t say enough about these young ladies. They rebuilt the program, continued to show up, and believed in what they were doing.”

Truckee’s postseason run included a thrilling 20-17 victory over South Lake Tahoe in the regional playoffs, a game Borzello described as one of the most memorable wins in program history.

“It had to be one of the biggest wins for Truckee softball, one I will never forget,” Borzello said. “We’re definitely trying to make state next year.”

While the Wolverines ultimately fell short of reaching the state championship tournament, the season marked a major step forward for a program that has seen significant growth in recent years.

Much of that growth has coincided with the expansion of youth softball opportunities in the community. Truckee Little League added a softball program about two years ago. However, many of the current varsity players joined the sport before those opportunities existed, meaning they had little or no softball experience before entering the program.

Borzello said the team’s success extends beyond the field. The players maintain an average GPA of approximately 3.7, and many have aspirations of attending college. Several athletes are also pursuing opportunities to continue playing softball at the collegiate level.

“I’m super proud of these young ladies, their dedication, and the joy they bring to me as a coach,” Borzello said. “I couldn’t do it without them.”

Truckee High School’s current varsity softball roster includes Azul Caratachea, Ella De la Torre, Jackie Garcia, Jessie Borzello, Jossie De la Torre, Melissa Herrera, Nayeli Santos, Olivia Kay, Reina Rosenblatt, Sophie Inis, Stephanie Diaz and Zoe Featherstone.

With most of the roster expected to return and youth participation continuing to grow, the Wolverines hope this season’s breakthrough is only the beginning of a new era for Truckee softball.

“They are an amazing group of young ladies with bright futures, and I’m very proud to be called their coach,” said Borzello.