ECS Softball has made Florida high school sports history, capturing back-to-back FHSAA Class 1A state championships in softball — a run fueled by talent, faith, and the steady leadership of Head Coach Johnny Manetta.

2024: A Championship Born from Grit

The first title in 2024 was nothing short of cinematic. ECS clinched its first-ever softball state championship in dramatic fashion with a 1-0 walk-off win over University Christian. The game-winning hit came from eighth-grader Payton Billie, whose single drove in the lone run in the bottom of the seventh.

On the mound, Zoe Yzaguirre was untouchable — throwing her third consecutive no-hitter and recording 11 strikeouts. It was a win that put ECS on the map and set the tone for what was to come.

Coach Johnny Manetta, in his signature calm-but-driven style, credited the girls’ discipline and trust in each other:

“We always talk about playing for something bigger than ourselves. These girls live that every pitch.”

2025: A New Standard of Greatness

With a target on their backs, the Sentinels came into the 2025 season with something to prove — and they delivered. After steamrolling North Florida Christian 13-0 in the semifinals, ECS entered the championship game with confidence.

In a high-octane shootout against Geneva, the Sentinels emerged victorious, 17-14, earning their second consecutive state crown. Coach Manetta once again guided his team with poise, keeping them focused through every momentum shift.

The team’s offense exploded, and the bench was as electric as the dugout — a reflection of the family culture Manetta has cultivated.

Coach Manetta’s Blueprint

Coach Manetta’s impact on the ECS softball program goes far beyond wins. His leadership has emphasized faith, unity, and resilience, creating a team culture where players thrive under pressure and grow in character. Under his direction, the Sentinels have become a dominant force in Class 1A and a model for what faith-based sports can look like at the highest level.

“Coach Manetta doesn’t just coach the game — he coaches the heart,” one parent said after the championship. “These girls believe in each other because he believes in them.”