As the new season approaches, the Southport High School softball team is gearing up for what they hope will be a successful year. Coach James Thorpe has high expectations for the team, aiming for a winning season and a record above .500. With a strong group of returning players and some promising new additions, the team is ready to take on the competition.
When asked about the top returning players from last season, Coach Thorpe highlighted the importance of building a strong softball IQ, mental and physical toughness, and accountability within the program. These qualities will be essential in helping the team reach their goals this year.
Among the standout players are Ally Kiefner, Ady Stansbury, Malia Breedlove, Hayli Pheonix, Ava Thorpe, Addy Mosley, Hayven Wyant, and Kayden Hernandez. These players all have varsity experience and will be key contributors to the team's success. Additionally, making it to the Sectional Championship game last year has given the returning players a boost of confidence and motivation.
In terms of new players, Coach Thorpe has high expectations for freshmen Natalie Vaeth, Rachel Pfieffer, Emma Jordan, and sophomore transfer Lindsey Vaughn. These players will bring new skills and strengths to the team and will have the opportunity to make an immediate impact. With a mix of both experienced and new players, the team is well-equipped to tackle their upcoming season.
When it comes to team captains, Coach Thorpe looks for players who possess qualities such as leadership, determination, and a strong work ethic. This year, the team will have four captains: freshmen Natalie Vaeth and Rachel Pfieffer, sophomore Emma Jordan, and sophomore transfer Lindsey Vaughn. These players have demonstrated their commitment to the team and are ready to take on a leadership role. With a competitive group of players, there is healthy competition for the captain positions, which will only push the team to work harder and strive for excellence.
Motivation is a key aspect of any successful team, and Coach Thorpe understands the importance of keeping his players motivated and pushing them to reach their full potential. He believes that the team's chemistry and camaraderie are built through the culture of the program. By establishing a positive and hardworking culture, the team is able to push each other and create an environment where success is expected and worked for. This mindset is not just limited to the season but also extends to the off-season, where players are expected to continue working hard to improve their skills and physical fitness.
When asked about any changes to his coaching style this season, Coach Thorpe mentioned that he coaches to his players' strengths. This means utilizing different strategies, such as small ball and baserunning, in order to create opportunities for the players to succeed. By adapting his coaching style to fit the strengths of his players, Coach Thorpe is able to get the best out of his team and help them achieve their goals.
Looking ahead to the season, there are a few tough opponents and games that the team is looking forward to. These include rival schools within their conference as well as some challenging non-conference games. However, Coach Thorpe believes that with the right mindset and preparation, his team is capable of competing against any opponent.
In order to prepare for the upcoming season, the team has made some changes and improvements to their training and conditioning program. Coach Thorpe understands the importance of physical fitness and has implemented a training program that focuses on building strength, endurance, and agility. Additionally, the team has also been working on mental conditioning, recognizing that the high school season is a grind and can be mentally challenging for young players. By addressing the mental aspect of the game, the team is better equipped to handle any challenges that may arise during the season.
In conclusion, the Southport High School softball team is ready to take on the competition this year. With a strong group of returning players, talented new additions, and a dedicated coaching staff, the team has the potential to have a successful season. Their focus on building a strong team culture, physical and mental toughness, and accountability will be key in helping them reach their goals. As they continue to train and prepare for the upcoming season, the team is determined to make this year one to remember.
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