As the upcoming high school softball season approaches, there is a lot of excitement and anticipation surrounding the Edgewood High School team. With a strong core of returning players and promising new additions, head coach Mick Hammett is confident that his team has what it takes to compete for conference and sectional championships.
One of the main strengths of the team lies in its returning players from last season. Alli Bland, the top pitcher from last year, is back and ready to lead the team from the mound. Bland's impressive record and pitching skills make her a standout player on the team. Another key player is Ella Sproul, who was injured for most of last season but is now back and looking to return to her fresh year form.
Sproul's batting skills and overall athleticism make her a valuable asset to the team. Jayden Stephens, who is switching from third base to catcher this year, brings a strong arm and defensive prowess to the team. Olivia McPherson, known for her clutch hitting and game-winning performance in last year's sectional game, is looking to be more consistent at the plate this season. Rounding out the returning players are Addison Yearby, a reliable hitter, and Ava LaRoche, a solid outfielder who will have more opportunities at the plate this year.
In terms of new players, the team is excited about the potential impact they will have. Coach Hammett highlights the skills and potential of Alli Bland, a top pitcher back from last season, and Ella Sproul, who is returning from an injury and hoping to regain her freshman-year form. Jayden Stephens, who is switching positions, is also expected to make a significant impact with her strong arm.
Olivia McPherson, who had a game-winning hit in last year's sectional game, is looking to be more consistent at the plate. The team is also excited about the addition of Addison Yearby, who brings a good glove and clutch hitting, and Ava LaRoche, who will have more opportunities to showcase her skills at the plate.
When it comes to team captains, Coach Hammett looks for players who lead by example through hard work and showing initiative in getting drills going. This year, Lizzy Austin, Brylee Moore, Sydney Austin, Libby McIlhinney, and Kaylor Nichols will all be competing for open spots.
Team chemistry and camaraderie are crucial elements in any successful team. Coach Hammett understands the importance of building a strong team bond and plans on implementing team bonding activities and drills to foster a sense of unity and teamwork among the players.
In terms of motivation, Coach Hammett has an athletic psych intern who will be working with the team to help them push themselves to their full potential. The team will also have access to a new weight room and lifting coach, allowing them to come into the season stronger and in better shape.
One of the biggest challenges in preparing for this season has been the loss of their best hitter from last year, who tore her ACL in basketball and will miss the entire season. However, Coach Hammett is confident that the team will rise to the challenge and that each player will step up to fill the void left by their teammate.
When it comes to the team's schedule, they will face tough opponents in their conference and sectional, with Cascade, a two-time state champion, being added to their sectional. While this may present a challenge, it also provides an opportunity for the team to prove themselves and test their skills against top-level competition.
Coach Hammett's coaching style remains consistent, but he acknowledges the importance of adapting and adjusting to different players and situations. With many of his players having experience playing travel softball in the off-season, Coach Hammett's philosophy is to build on their existing skills and experience to create a strong and cohesive team.
In terms of training and conditioning, the team has made significant improvements with the addition of a new weight room and lifting coach. This has allowed the players to come into the season stronger and in better physical shape, giving them an edge on the field.
As with any team, the Edgewood High School softball team has its strengths and weaknesses. Their strengths lie in their experienced and skilled players, as well as their strong team chemistry. However, Coach Hammett acknowledges that there is always room for improvement, and the team will continue to work on their weaknesses, such as consistency at the plate and filling the void left by their injured teammate.
In conclusion, the Edgewood High School softball team is gearing up for an exciting and competitive season. With a mix of experienced and talented players, as well as promising new additions, the team has the potential to achieve its goal of competing for conference and sectional championships. With a strong emphasis on team chemistry, hard work, and pushing themselves to their full potential, there is no doubt that this team will give it their all on the field and make their school proud.
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