"Binky" is headed to Eastern Arizona College to play softball for the Gila Monsters
DEMING – Bianca Valverde stood diminutive in size but casts a large shadow in the batter’s box during her high school softball career at Deming High. Eastern Arizona College in Thatcher, AZ recognized this and offered the senior Lady ‘Cat a shot at playing at the next level.
Valverde bid farewell to the Lady ‘Cat program as a four-year varsity letter and two-time All-District 3-5A selection, second-team all-state. She was voted the team most valuable player this season. “It’s sad leaving my teammates,” Valverde told the Headlight. “We have been playing together since travel ball. Valverde is one of six seniors that will leave the varsity program this year. They all came up through the travel ball experience with the Li’l Cats traveling team.
Valverde stepped into the leadoff role as a freshman and never let up. She led the team each year in on-base percentage (.609 in 2022), was among the team leaders in hits (34 in 2022), slugging percentage, walks, stolen bases, and extra-base hits.
“I thought about this opportunity a lot. At first, I wasn’t sure this was what I wanted, but now I can see it as a fun experience and an opportunity to continue my education,” Valverde explained.
She was invited to a two-hour workout with the EAC Gila Monsters this season and that was all the EAC coaching staff needed to bring Valverde back.
The Lady ‘Cats rolled through am 11-14 overall season in 2022 and were 7-11 in the highly competitive District 3-5A.
The Gila Monsters were 34-10 in ACCAC (Arizona Community College Athletic Conference) play and 43-14 overall. They reached the region II semifinals where they lost to Yavapai 10-5.
Valverde plays a solid left field and is considered by many the quintessential lead-off batter. “She makes things happen in the right direction,” said former DHS Softball Coach Noel Nunez. “She is a rally starter.”
On Thursday, Valverde signed a letter of commitment to play softball at EAC. Her parents, DHS athletic director, assistant coach Ricky Baca, and coach Gary Galindo were present for the signing. A boisterous crowd of Lady ‘Cat teammates and students were also present for the signing.
“It’s good to know that Bianca will be playing softball at the next level and close enough for her fans and family to see her play,” said Bernie Chavez, DHS Athletic/Activities Director.
EAC is a two-year school and Valverde can see a future that may include moving into a four-year program in her remaining two years. She is undecided in a career path.
“I want to thank my dad for coaching me in the backyard since I was a young girl and to my mom for her support and pushing to succeed and stay humble,” Valverde said.
She is the daughter of Yvonne and Mike Valverde.
Bill Armendariz can be reached at 575-546-2611 (leave a message) or biarmendariz@demingheadlight.com.
This article originally appeared on Deming Headlight: "Binky" is headed to Eastern Arizona College to play softball
