The Salisbury High School softball team and head coach Jane Brennan knew the 2022 season was going to be a tough one when it came to outcomes on the field. Things change all the time, especially with the current landscape of high school athletics. But Brennan and the Falcons still made the most of their season by just being able to play.

“As I navigated the team, expectations, and outlined a plan, it was ever-changing,” said Brennan. “Of course, we all want more wins than losses, but it was way more than that this season. Even with the perfect, well-thought-out plan, there were things thrown at us that were out of my control. I am proud of the team they became, through the many challenges we faced. Our total number of players is an ongoing issue smaller schools face.

“I saw development. I watched a team that learned every game and made adjustments, as a coach it is all I can ask. The competitiveness of the Colonial League is something that we are proud to be a part of. I valued the patience and expertise of the Colonial League softball family.”

There were three seniors on this year’s team, including Marcie Silberman, Abby Lipkin and Sam Peffer. Silberman started all 20 games and led the team with a .564 batting average, 31 hits, including 11 home runs, and 23 RBIs.

“I was so encouraged by the three seniors, their knowledge of the game, leadership skills, and love of the game was infectious throughout the entire season,” said Brennan. “They all had their individual strengths and added a fun flair. Marcie’s numbers don’t lie. She is talented beyond words. Watching her was fun, exciting, and so thrilling. Her knowledge of the game is nothing less than spectacular, she will be missed, but I can’t wait to see and hear what she does at Moravian University.”

Looking ahead to next season, Brennan is excited about the development of some of her younger players, six from the starting lineup that will be returning. That includes Elizabeth Carney, who led the pitching staff winning all four games this season and also added 23 hits and 18 runs at the plate. She was second on the team behind Silberman with a .411 batting average. Hailey Silberman (.295), Peffer (.288), Zaira Stokes (.278) and Lipkin (.241) were some of the Falcons’ other top hitters this season.

“We are hoping that Elizabeth Carney continues to develop as a player,” Brennan said. “Unfortunately, she was unable to pitch for us the last few games as she struggled with injury. Her bat is strong, stayed in the lineup and we were able to use her in other field positions.”