Jackson Devine is an ASU journalist assigned to cover Deer Valley for AZPrep365.

The last time the Deer Valley SkyHawks softball team took the field was March 10, 2020. They had no idea this would be their last game of the season.

“We weren’t expecting our entire season to get cancelled,” said coach Taylor Hagele. “We talked about it ahead of time with all the coaches. We got together with the players and said with everything going on, just kind of anticipate something to come up.”

After last season’s unexpected cancellation due to COVID-19 after only five games, the SkyHawks are preparing to play its first game in 367 days.

“Our returning players are chomping at the bit to get going and get out there and play in games,” said Hagele.

Coming into this season team chemistry is something the SkyHawks are prioritizing.

“I just want our team to mesh,” said Hagele. “I think high school sports provides such a great opportunity for student athletes. I just can’t wait to see that clicking moment when they all come together, start working together and everything runs smoothly. I just want our girls to experience that.”

Hagele, who is in her second season as the SkyHawks head coach, has a family rivalry she wants to win.

“A personal goal of mine is to beat Cactus, since that’s where I coached before and my dad is the coach there,” said Hagele

The SkyHawks have a team goal in mind as well.

“I told the girls... I want to make the playoffs,” said Hagele.

The SkyHawks will get their first opportunity to work towards their goal when they take the field against the Flagstaff Eagles at home Friday.