SAN BENITO – The Greyhound softball team has hit the ground running under coach Denise Lira. San Benito won the district 32-6A title with a 13-1 record.

“It’s really great that we were able to get it back this year,” said senior outfielder Deztiny Hernandez. “Especially since it’s our senior year. We’ve worked really hard for this district title.”

“The girls have come a long way from the beginning of the season to now,” said Lira. “They’ve grown maturity wise as far as softball. We have a lot of girls who are having a good time, having fun.”

The players say Lira, who has coaching experience at the collegiate level, has brought a new style of leadership to the team.

“She goes further, in depth and she keeps her cool when we’re in pressure situations,” said Hernandez. “I think it’s really cool that she’s able to handle our atmosphere.”

San Benito has been successful in recent years, going two state twice since 2013.

But last year the Greyhounds were eliminated in the second round of the playoffs.

Lira understands there’s high expectations for the team to win.

“I know that the community is very supportive of softball,” said Lira. “Softball is a strong sport in San Benito. Coming in, it was going to be some big shoes to fill and hard work.”

The Greyhounds are gearing up for their bi-district matchup against Edinburg North.

It’ll be a one-game, winner-take-all affair.

Friday’s first pitch at Edinburg North is scheduled for 7PM.