Two Gila Ridge softball stars commit to next level

Each Lady Hawk will be taking their talents to Southern California schools, as coaches praised work ethic and leadership for both

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - It was an emotional Thursday afternoon at Gila Ridge High School, as the school honored two of its best softball players.

Seniors Isabella Beltran and Tayler Reischmann each signed letters of intent to continue their academic and athletic careers in college.

Beltran will be attending San Diego City College, while Reischmann will go to Cerro Coso Community College in Ridgecrest, Calif.

Beltran was persuaded to join the Knights after talking to their head coach, who reminded her of Hawks skipper Norberto Salinas Jr.

"I think it was the coach, I really liked how he was pushing us, it's kind of like how (Salinas Jr.) was, it just pushes, that's how he works," Beltran said.

As for Reischmann's choice, she was also sold on her future coaches, but also on the school as a whole.

"I felt welcomed there, the campus is beautiful, it felt like a place I could see myself at," Reischmann said.

Both players received praise from their Hawks coaches for both their work ethic and leadership with the program.

Head coach Norberto Salinas Jr. says he could always find Beltran looking to improve her game.

"She means a lot, she's a hard worker, one of the hardest worker, she never stops, just puts in everything she's got," Salinas Jr. said.

As for Reischmann, Salinas Jr. says she was a role model for her teammates.

"The most positive attitude daily no matter what it is she has the best attitude," Salinas Jr. said.

The love was reciprocated by the players for Salinas Jr. and all of the Hawks staff, who each helped the players on and off the field.

"(They) changed my whole life, like my attitude, my grades, (they) just helped me focus more," Beltran said.

Their motivation was also felt by Reischmann.

"They taught me just to keep pushing, even if you think you're doing good, you are, you just have to help your teammates as well," Reischmann said.

As for when Beltran, Reischmann, and the rest of the Hawks will take the field again, they'll be back in action Tuesday.

Gila Ridge will hit the road to take McClintock, as they look to snap a two game losing streak.