NBC 11 Sports: Montoya headlines Kofa softball region awards, Shamrocks softball lands heavy honors

YUMA, Ariz., (KYMA, KECY) - End of the season region honors keep rolling in from the softball diamond, featuring another Player of the Year and many 1st Team standouts making the list from 3A to 5A.

Five Kofa Lady Kings made the cut in the 5A Central Valley Region awards, led by Stephany Montoya being named the Region Player of the Year after leading the Kings to the state play-in.

In 4A, despite a building year for the Yuma Lady Criminals, they had some representation in the Skyline Region for 2023. Sophomores Niome Loera and Elia Palenica each received All-Region 2nd Team recognition as a sign for a bright future for the Crims.

Meanwhile, the Yuma Catholic Lady Shamrocks poured in the 3A West honors with four players making the All-Region 1st Team and another three making the 2nd Team. Topping the list was Cherish Trujillo being named the All-Region Defensive Player of the Year and also being listed as an Honorable Mention for the entire 3A Conference for her efforts on the mound. Alyssa Soto was named to the All-Conference 2nd Team on top of her All-Region 1st Team honors.

And Head coach Jarred Lackey reeled in the 3A West Region Coach of the Year after helping the Rocks to 26 wins and reaching the 3A semifinals with a young group.

Plus, get your tickets for the annual City of El Centro Day at the Ballpark. Tickets are now available, but limited, until the end of June for all Imperial Valley residents to see the San Diego Padres and Los Angeles Dodgers at Petco Park on August 5th.