Southern Utah University seniors Alayah Toscano and Delaney Baker reflected on their softball careers as they approach the end of the regular season, according to an April 29 announcement from the university.
The story of their final year centers on personal growth, leadership, and resilience. Both athletes have played important roles in shaping team culture and supporting fellow players through challenges on and off the field.
Toscano described her journey from a quiet presence to a leader within the team. “I’ve grown a lot in my leadership and my confidence,” Toscano said. “Just getting comfortable with who I am, being surrounded by girls and coaches who let me be myself has really allowed me to play with joy.” She added that embracing a player-led culture helped her find her voice: “It’s a player-led team, so stepping into that role, finding my voice, and feeling comfortable speaking up has been huge for me.”
Baker joined Southern Utah after transferring during her sophomore year. She said adjusting to Division I competition required self-belief: “When I transferred, I wasn’t in the best place mentally,” Baker said. “Coming here and proving to myself that I belong at the Division I level was huge.” Managing anxiety as a pitcher was another challenge: “I had to learn how to play with the anxiety instead of trying to fight it,” she said.
Both seniors highlighted adversity as part of their development. Toscano noted perseverance through difficult stretches: “Slumps aren’t easy, but you can’t shy away from them. You just have to keep going.” Baker echoed this mindset when discussing teamwork: “You may not always be where you want to be, but you work out of it while still supporting your teammates.” The two also spoke about building a standard for effort within the program.
As they prepare for their final home series against Utah Valley University beginning May 1—with senior recognition scheduled for May 2—both players expressed gratitude for their experiences at Southern Utah. Toscano summarized her outlook by saying: “Softball is about the lessons you learn and the people you meet… Enjoy the ride… and appreciate where your feet are.”
