Article by Phoenix Writer Ailish Blaney ’28
The Kellenberg Varsity Softball team fought for something bigger than themselves. Hosting a benefit game on April 10, 2026, they played in honor of the Nassau Suffolk Autism Society.
From car magnets to the famous 50/50 raffle, Kellenberg did not disappoint, raising over $3,200. This money will go to raising awareness for those with special needs.
This year, the Firebirds faced Molloy ending in a tough match, yet didn’t lose sight of the real reason they were playing.
According to senior Alexis Zaremba, “When you raise the money, it’s like you’re playing for them.”
This twelve year annual tradition has made quite an impact on the girls. In March, fifteen girls formed this new team, having no idea the friendships and memories ahead. Now, only a few weeks in, they have bonded an incredible amount. A notable reason is credited to events like these; times when the team comes together for a bigger purpose make all the impact. Many players agreed that the team culture is so different from any other.
Freshman Margaret Heller says, “Everyone feels the same- with it being smaller, you get so comfortable.”
It was an exciting game, starting off strong with Molly Silecchia #3 belting a home run, and Zaremba slamming a triple immediately after. This back-to-back play was setting up success for the Firebirds. After the third inning, the team had a pep talk and everyone was rallied up in the circle. Each player, extremely energetic, chanted at the top of her lungs, returning motivated as ever.
Unfortunately, the streak did not last. By the end of the inning, the score wasn’t looking too promising, yet the Firebirds did not give up. Hailey McGreevy kept the team going with her positive attitude and motivated the team throughout not only the good, but also the bad moments. This is exactly what it means to be a part of the Kellenberg softball team. The team lost 11-5. Even though the scoreboard did not go their way, Coach Conrade said, “They were there for one another, and they played together as one team. They were in it together.”
“When everyone is coming together, laughing like crazy, that’s when you know the team works,” said Zaremba.
Kellenberg’s softball team did a fantastic job fundraising for a heartwarming cause in their community. They played hard, yet could not raise the money without support from the people in the stands. To the fans that stopped by to support the birds’-a special thank you goes out and hope to see you again to witness the great victory of year thirteen!
