Thunder mascot photo.

Central Valley Academy Softball Team Preview

Mascot
Thunder
Team
Varsity 2026
Colors
Royal Blue, Powder Blue, Yellow
Coach
Robert Paul
Address
111 Frederick St Ilion, Ilion, NY 13357
Overall
0-0
League
0-0

General Information

Team Name
Central Valley Academy (Ilion, NY)
Mascot
Thunder
School Colors
Royal Blue, Powder Blue, Yellow
2024 - 2025 Coach Name
Robert Paul
2024 - 2025 League Record
5-7-0
2024 - 2025 Overall Record
10-7-0
State Rank
339
Section Rank
32
State Division Rank
47

2025 - 2026 Preview Information

Coach Name
Robert Paul
Strengths
CVA enters the season with:

Strong pitching leadership
Emerging offensive threats
Competition at key defensive spots
Young talent pushing for roles
Momentum from last years sectional run

If the Thunder successfully replace production behind the plate and continue developing depth, they have the pieces to be a dangerous sectional contender again.

This years Thunder squad will be defined by leadership, development, and defensive identity with a veteran arm in the circle and a rising sophomore star leading a hungry roster aiming to take the next step.

Returning
Ainsley Albrecht (Sophomore)

A breakout sophomore standout expected to be a centerpiece of the offense and a difference-maker on both sides of the ball.

Anna Johannssen (Senior, Pitcher, 2-year Captain) Returning team MVP

The Thunders unquestioned leader in the circle. An uncommitted senior with experience, command, and competitiveness who will anchor the pitching staff and set the tone for team culture.



Newcomers
Dani Forbes (Sophmore)

The leading candidate to step into the catching role vacated by Dani Luke. Strong defensive instincts and game management ability will be key early.


Brice Boucher (Sophmore)

Emerging player expected to contribute in multiple roles with upside at the plate.



Victoria Gerena (Sophmore)

Athletic play maker with potential to impact both offense and defense.


Emily Welch (Junior)

A player to watch that is versatile has a great glove and whose bat adds some spark to the lineup.



The Thunder pitching staff is anchored by senior ace Anna Johannssen, one of the premier pitchers in the TVL. Johannssen brings power, precision, and poise to the circle. Her fastball sets the tone, her off-speed pitches keep hitters off balance, and her ability to locate in big moments makes her a true game-changer. As a senior leader, she not only dominates statistically but also raises the standard for the entire staff with her preparation, work ethic, and competitive fire.

Complementing her is sophomore standout Leah Brown, who is quickly making a name for herself. Brown threw a no-hitter last season a major milestone that showcased her potential and composure at a young age. She brings an impressive arsenal of pitches, mixing speeds effectively and keeping hitters guessing. Her versatility allows the Thunder to change looks from game to game, giving opponents a completely different challenge when she takes the circle.

Together, Johannssen and Brown form one of the most formida

Team Wins

DateOpponentResult
4/4/2025 Frankfort-Schuyler (Frankfort, NY) 13-4
4/17/2025 Proctor (Utica, NY) 12-0
4/18/2025 Oriskany (NY) 8-0
5/2/2025 Vernon-Verona-Sherrill (Verona, NY) 19-5
5/13/2025 Vernon-Verona-Sherrill (Verona, NY) 15-6
5/15/2025 Holland Patent (NY) 20-0
5/19/2025 Frankfort-Schuyler (Frankfort, NY) 6-5
5/22/2025 Oneida (NY) 11-10
5/22/2025 Oneida (NY) 12-0
5/23/2025 Homer (NY) 30-18

Year-by-Year Results

YearCoach NameRecordAchievements
24-25R. Paul10-7-0
23-2413-6-0
22-2313-11-0
21-222-2-0
18-191-10-0