Canyon del Oro Triumphs in Marana Mountain View's Last Stand for 5A Softball Title
Canyon del Oro wins its first state title since 2017, securing their place at No. 2 for state softball titles. Coach Kelly Fowler feels happy and relieved after leading her team to victory.
The story of Canyon del Oro is a microcosm of the entire season, with Mares' perfect pitching being key to sealing the deal.
Kelly Fowler, the softball coach at Canyon del Oro, was starting to feel snake-bitten after three runner-up finishes in the past five seasons. But on May 18, her team delivered a monumental win over Marana Mountain View, securing their first state title since 2017 and making history by tying with Joseph City for the No. 2 spot in school softball titles.
The game was full of drama as Canyon del Oro took a 3-1 lead in the bottom of the second inning before Marana Mountain View tied it at 3-3 with a single in the third inning. But, thanks to senior pitcher Savanna Mares, Canyon del Oro held on for the win. Mares finished the season 21-5 and had 248 strikeouts in 146 innings, showcasing her skills and confidence as one of the state's top pitchers.
'It means a lot,' said sophomore first baseman Brooklyn Benavides, who scored the decisive run. For Canyon del Oro coach Kelly Fowler, it was an exciting moment to add to their rich softball history. While Marana Mountain View finished the season with 24-4 and won just short of their first state title in school history, this win is a testament to the team's resilience and commitment to excellence.