BY SAPNA PATHAK

When asked which tournament championship stands out as her favorite, Salem native Stephanie Cabral can’t make up her mind.

“Well, we won in four different states and took home six tournament championships this summer,” said Cabral, a member of this year’s Northeast Hurricanes 14U softball squad. “So we were pretty psyched about winning in different places and leaving a mark among New England teams.”

Cabral was joined by Salem’s Alex Borelli and Windham’s Sara Bracken on the American Softball Association team. This summer, the Hurricanes placed first in six of eight tournaments, including three wins in Massachusetts, one in Rhode Island, one in New York and one in the Granite State.  

Manager Dean Borelli said the tournament in Glens Falls, N.Y., from July 27 to 29, stood out as his favorite.

“It really showed a lot of character,” said Borelli. “We won in extra innings in the final game. It was hot, and they were really tested in that tournament. We expected to do well this summer, but it was very impressive to see them win in four different states.”

Borelli, who spent eight seasons playing in the Oakland A’s minor league system, kept his players fresh by moving them around each game.

Bracken played second base and outfield, Cabral spent time as a starting pitcher but also played second base, shortstop and third, and Alex Borelli roamed the outfield and infield on any given day.

This year, the trio will display its versatility when it tries out for a spot on the Salem High softball team, hoping to join the defending Class L champion roster.

“It really helps when you can play various positions,” said Borelli. “They move around a lot, and that was something I would do with most of the players this summer. I think it helps them keep up with the changes each game can bring, and it keeps them on their toes not knowing where they’ll start the next day.”