SAN ANGELO, Texas – Although their bond is rooted in softball, it runs much deeper.
 
“I have 17 friends that I know I can call at any time for anything,” said freshman infielder Taylor Jensen. “We always do stuff together and that started with the seniors from the day I stepped on campus.”
 
The four seniors on the Angelo State softball team made it a point to bring the team together off the field. Whether it's as simple as bowling night or as messy as a pumpkin-carving contest, the 18-player roster does it together.
 
“It's a lot of fun seeing each other outside of practice and getting to know each other early in the season,” said senior Jasmaine Moore. “We just thought it was important to get everyone together, and have a good time.”
 
Although these outings are team-building exercise meant to be fun, the competition does not leave these student-athletes. DeeshanaLynn Tafiti bowled a 152 and is the Belles' top bowler, while Jensen, Peyton Hughes and Morgan Spearman took a hands-on approach for their pumpkin carving and earned the most creative design.
 
This togetherness off the field has brought success on the field. The Rambelles are ranked fifth in the country, sitting at 27-6 overall and 10-2 in the Lone Star Conference. But what separates the Rambelles from most teams is that the success is a result of the entire lineup.
 
The Rambelles have 15 position players who have all seen action in at least 20 games this season. Whether it's Amanda Wilhelm hitting a pinch-hit double to jumpstart a three-run rally over St. Mary's or Luz'Ce Baca using her speed as a pinch runner to steal second and get into scoring position, the entire lineup is utilized.
 
“We want to put our team in the best position as possible, so if that means a defensive substitution in the third inning or a pinch hitter in the fourth inning, we will make that change,” Angelo State head coach Travis Scott said. “It's a team-first mentality and the girls buy into that.”
 
Scott routinely empties his bench, as he uses on average 15 players per game. All-American catcher Kacie Easley understands his approach and knows what it means to be a part of the Angelo State softball team.   
 
“You can't be successful without truly understanding what it means to be a team.”