After finishing last season with a 24–17 overall record and earning a playoff berth, the San Diego Mesa College softball team is excited to begin its 2026 campaign.

This year’s motto, “Built Like Olympians,”  is the program’s commitment to once again establish itself as one of the top teams in the state.  

Last season, the Olympians relied heavily on one primary pitcher. This year, they enter the season with three capable arms in the rotation. The team welcomes back Olivia Anderson, who earned First Team All-Conference and All-Academic honors after finishing second in the state with 234 strikeouts. Freshmen Sophia Sanchez (Patrick Henry High School) and Jenna Eades (San Pasqual High School) are expected to make an immediate impact.

Head Coach Jaclyn Guidi also adds that defense will be a strength. The players are fundamentally sound, athletic, and disciplined on the field.

A characteristic of this program has always been its camaraderie and culture. The players support one another and have always been consistent with the work needed both off and on the field.     

The coaching staff was aggressive in its recruiting efforts with the goal of making a deeper postseason run. Despite graduating six starters from last season’s roster, the team added ten new players, including the return of Janiece Blackman and Maddy Egan, both of whom missed last season due to injury.

Several key returners will be asked to play important roles, including the team’s four captains: Olivia Anderson, Janiece Blackman, Giselle Peregrina, and Faith Balestreri. They bring experience and are the most vocal during practices and games. Peregrina and Blackman are dual student athletes who also attend San Diego State University.

Key returners expected to lead the team include:

Olivia Anderson, Pitcher and Leadoff
A dynamic two way player with power and speed, Anderson sets the tone at the top of the lineup and dominates in the circle.

Jayde Armenta, Outfield
A strong and consistent hitter who delivers quality at bats and provides reliability in the outfield.

Janiece Blackman, Outfield
One of the strongest hitters in program history, Blackman is a constant offensive threat and a true game changer.

Marissa Lieras, Catcher
A defensive leader behind the plate, Lieras receives exceptionally well and consistently shuts down the running game.

AnaSophia Zeigler, Infield
A steady defender with a strong bat who contributes on both sides of the ball.

Giselle Peregrina, Center Field
Plays with energy and passion, featuring excellent range, a strong arm, and a spark that elevates the team.

Anabella Heguy, Third Base and Catcher
A lockdown defender at third base with confidence and aggression at the plate.

Faith Balestreri, Designated Player
A pure power hitter and a serious threat every time she steps into the box.

Another athlete expected to contribute immediately will be Itzel Soto. Soto, a shortstop from Otay Ranch High School, is regarded as one of the top shortstops at this level. She brings elite defense, quick instincts, and serves as an anchor on the field.  

With a solid core of returning players and a talented recruiting class expected to make an immediate impact, the San Diego Mesa College softball team enters the season with plenty to look forward to.