Spring Sports Preview
As the weather warms up and spring approaches, Leonia High School’s spring sports teams are getting ready for an exciting season. With new rosters, developing talent, and a mix of senior leadership and younger talent, the teams are determined to build on last year’s remarkable success- with softball, baseball, flag football, and boys and girls track all winning league titles.
The Leonia baseball team is coming off a strong season, securing a league title, and is determined to defend their championship. Senior Jake Capra emphasized the team’s supportive and competitive atmosphere, saying, “the team atmosphere is incredibly supportive and driven, with everyone pushing each other to improve while fostering a strong sense of camaraderie.” One of the most highly anticipated matchups for the team is their game against Ridgefield. “We’re especially looking forward to facing Ridgefield, as we have an 8-0 record against them the last few years and are determined to keep our winning streak alive.” However, this season will look different, with many new faces on the varsity roster. “Last year’s team was led by a great group of seniors, and it’s definitely going to be a whole new roster, a lot of young talent. But at the end of the day we will put together a strong team and hopefully win leagues again.” One of their biggest challenges will be integrating first year varsity players, but the team is confident in its ability to adapt and compete at a high level.
Leonia’s Track and Field team is also experiencing a transition, with younger athletes stepping into key roles after last year’s league championship win. Senior manager Elena Kuhlmey described the team atmosphere as a balance between individual motivation and collective support. “Given that track is both an individual and team sport, there is a mix of both personal drive and collective encouragement.” While last year’s team was led by experienced seniors, this season offers underclassmen the opportunity to take on leadership roles. Much like the baseball team, the track team’s biggest challenge is anticipated to be finding the success they did last year while competing with a younger roster.
The girls’ flag football team is entering its second season after making history in 2024 by winning the league championship in its inaugural season. Senior Xenia Baez highlighted the team’s unity and determination, “The team atmosphere is amazing. We all got along really well and always had one another’s backs.” The team is particularly eager for matchups against Harrison. “We’re definitely looking forward to our games against Harrison. They got the best of us last year, but with a new season and some experience, we’re ready to prove ourselves.” Along with many other spring sports, the biggest challenge for the flag football team will be integrating less experienced underclassmen and finding ways to replace the talent they lost. “We are going to have to rebuild this year, but we definitely plan to still stay a competitive team.”
The Leonia softball team is entering the season with high expectations after winning the league championship last year. With a strong core of returning players and promising underclassmen, the team is focused on defending its title. Key league matchups like Ridgefield and Saddle Brook will be major tests as they look to maintain their dominance. While the team lost some key contributors to graduation, they are confident in their ability to develop new talent and build on last season’s success.
With strong team chemistry, dedicated athletes, and determination to succeed, Leonia spring sports teams are ready for an exciting season where many have league titles to defend.
