While the season’s scoreboard hasn’t always favored them, the softball team has become stronger by learning how to play together and by increasing their positivity and attitudes. They found their victories in their improvement. As the season progressed the team has made noticeable progress by learning their mistakes and playing more collectively. Despite having only three wins so far, pitcher and left fielder sophomore Makenzie Fox sees improvement and the players have also noticed the change.

“Our attitudes and team positivity has improved since last year,” Fox said.

Their dedication is evident not only during games but also during practices. Every day they give their all, which is proof of their development. 

“I’m most proud of how we try to give 110% each day,” shortstop Lakelyn Sobieski said. ”It’s hard after a long day of school but the joy of this sport is the reward, and I’m super proud of how much everyone has improved since the beginning.”

Captain Sophia Olofson leads her team through highs and lows by reminding them to stay focused and motivated, which is driving them into better performances. 

“I keep the team on track and motivated to do better,” Olofson said. 

Their last home game against Ripon where their motivation was tested was on Friday May 16 and was pretty tough, ending in a 26-8 loss. 

“We knew they were going to be an offensive team but we also knew we could compete. We came back after being down but couldn’t hold them,” Sobieski said. 

Despite that score the team doesn’t forget the highlights of their game.

“Lakelyn’s amazing catches and plays and me finally getting two gap hits,” Olofson said. 

Players are often confronted with pressure during games that can destabilize them, but it can also help them to do better and fight against this pressure. 

“I just tell myself nobody’s perfect so don’t worry about making a mistake, they happen, so just play the way you know you can,” Sobieski said. 

Preparation goes beyond the softball diamond. It doesn’t just consist of practices but also of watching the other teams and analyzing the players and their positions to gain advantages. 

“We watch their players and see which positions are more “weak” and look at their pitchers to see what we are facing,” Olofson said. 

For the seniors the game against Ripon wasn’t just about the competition but an important night filled with emotion, memories and the sadness and happiness of their high school career coming to an end. After four years of dedication to her favorite sport, Olofson must start a new chapter. 

“It was very sad considering I love softball very much, but exciting knowing I’m closer to the next chapter of my life,” Olofson said. 

The three players agree on how the team has played overall last Friday. 

“Overall we definitely can play better and I know we can because we have,” Fox said. 

As the playoffs are approaching, the team is getting ready, having a home advantage at the regional game tomorrow.

“I feel we got a good shot in the playoffs seeing how we have a home advantage in the first regional game,” Sobieski said.