The softball teams are swinging their way into the new season. They began the season practicing from 4 to 6 p.m. at Boyd Field. On days they don't have games, the team goes to batting practice at a local batting cage or at their coach, Mr. Joe Negrete's house. The varsity team is made up of three seniors, eight juniors, two sophomores, and two freshmen. They are coached by Mrs. Mary Kassmeier, Mrs. Sharon Genoways, and Mr. Joe Negrete. The record so far is 15-6.
Senior captain Trish O'Doherty said, "We are getting better each game. We have been playing well and our losses have been really close."
Coach Kassmeier agrees. "We're improving. Once we have a handle on batting we'll be fine. Our defense is really good."
On Sept. 16, the varsity team defeated number two ranked Millard North 1-0.
Senior captain Molly Helget said, "We played a great game and upset Millard North. Michelle Cannon pitched very well."
The varsity team is currently ranked ninth in the state. Coach Kassmeier said, "We expect to do very well at state. We should stay in the top 10."
The JV team is made up of 12 freshman and four sophomores. Their record so far is 4-5. Their losses have also been close.
Coach Genoways said, "They are a young team, inexperienced now, but improving each game."
Freshman Jessica Richardson said, "Many of us have never played summer ball, but we're having fun playing."
Both teams have games left to play against Millard South, Mercy, Westside, Northwest, and South. District competition for the varsity team is Oct. 16-17 and the state tournament is Oct. 23-24.
"We will be tough competitors," said Coach Kassmeier.