Saints softball player Cassandra Valdez has been named the Most Valuable Player this summer for the Music City Collegiate League (MCCL) in Nashville, where she competed for the Smoky Mountain Rain.

The MCCL is comprised of players from universities throughout America, and this season marks the first time a league has been represented in the ACL from Tennessee. 

Valdez shined in league play by throwing six innings with 12 strikeouts to lead the squad to the regular season championship. She also hit three RBIs in the game and smashed five home runs during the season. Prior to winning the championship, Valdez pitched the first shutout ever in the league. Her accomplishments during the competition led to her being named MVP.

Valdez commented, “I’ve been enjoying my time in Tennessee with my team. The team selection was random, but we all clicked in our first game together and they have been making this experience fun. I always bring the energy and I think it rubs off on my teammates and the OLLU culture. It was great to be recognized as the MVP after my offensive and defensive performances. My goal is to get noticed by professional scouts while playing in the league. I also want to note that playing in the NAIA doesn’t mean I can’t compete against higher divisions. I’m honored to represent my community, OLLU softball and the NAIA.”

Valdez has set multiple records and earned prestigious awards during her career at OLLU. Head Coach Bruce Lenington said, “We couldn’t be prouder to watch Cassandra represent Texas and OLLU in such a great way on a national stage. She really stood out amongst a league of college players from around the country. She has a commitment to get better in what will be her last collegiate year. We are excited to see what this experience means to her as we pursue another championship here at the lake.”