Defending Conference champions, the Holy Redeemer softball team started its season with wins over Holy Angels of Arcadia and St. Philips in Pasadena. The girls defeated Holy Angels 3-1 and St. Philips 12-1 to remain undefeated in conference play.

Eighth grader Katie Taix had 15 strikeouts against Holy Angels, completing the win. She had six straight strikeouts against St. Philips before sixth grader Samantha Pelayo took over pitching duties and earned the save in game two.

The girls were equally strong at bat. Taix was three for five, her sister and third baseman Kristie was also three for five with a home run, triple and five RBIs.

Seventh grader Shelby Reif was one for two, with two walks and six stolen bases. Shortstop Hailey Brancheau was four for five with a triple, a double and three RBIs. Catcher Emme Yekikian, eighth grade, had two singles and the go ahead RBI in the Angels game.

Fifth graders Delaney Brancheau and Brenna Bronk, and sixth grader Sofie Gutierrez, had singles and finished out the defense for Holy Redeemer. Rightfielder Fiona Harding had a double and seventh grader Lara Bosak scored two runs.

Holy Redeemer takes on its rival St. Rita’s of Pasadena next week.

Contributed by Tricia FLYNN