For a long time, the freshman softball roster has sat empty. There weren’t any new faces stepping onto the field, no new energy, and no team to carry on the program. Over time, it’s almost like people have forgotten what it’s like to have a freshman team.
This year is different, however. A group of girls walked into the gym on their first practice with passion, determination, and fearlessness. When they walked into their first practice, the gym was filled with different levels of experience and connections to the sport. Some had been playing softball with each other for years, some might have seen each other in classes, and some may have never met. At first, things weren’t easy, but as the girls worked hard through their freshman season, they became closer.
With the increase in players and interest, freshman volleyball and JV softball Coach Kayla Schahrer stepped up ready for the game. “This is my 7th season as the JV coach, but due to there being so many freshmen this year, we have added some freshman games to the schedule. I will be coaching those games as well.”
Scharer is excited about the outcome of the freshman team. “They are a great, talented group with a lot of love for the game,” she shared. “They’re enjoyable to be around, so it should be a fun season.”
The commitment to the sport stems from some of the girls’ experience playing travel and rec ball, who are excited to continue their softball careers. “I’ve decided this year to be a part of the U-High team, so I could learn what it’s like to be a part of a hard-working team that’s more challenging compared to rec ball,” Alice Brucker said. “I also want to improve my skills in softball.”
As the season keeps going, softball has been a great way to deepen bonds amongst players. One player in particular saw this as a great way to meet new people and build connections with others. “I have been playing softball for 9 years now,” Atley Richardson shared. “We work together through our friendships with one another, and I am so excited for games and getting to know more people.”
The young Pioneers will play their next home game on April 21st against Decatur Eisenhower at Fairview Park.
