As the new season approaches, all eyes are on the Louisa County High School softball team. After another successful season last year, the team has high hopes for the upcoming season. We spoke with Coach Susan Sharpe about the team's top returning players, new additions, team chemistry, and more to get a preview of what's to come this year.
Coach Sharpe believes that the key to success is having a strong team dynamic and a belief in each other. She emphasizes the importance of everyone buying into the plan and trusting the process. With this mindset, the team has been able to achieve great success in the past and looks to continue that trend this season.
When asked about the top returning players from last season, Coach Sharpe immediately highlighted Alyssa Hopkins, Kourtney Kidd, Laci Garrett, and Lily Ruckle. Hopkins, a senior and the team's catcher has a high softball IQ and does an excellent job commanding the field. Kidd, also a senior, plays first base and has a knack for cleaning up errant throws. Garrett, a senior outfielder, brings a great sense of humor and speed to the team. Ruckle, a sophomore pitcher, is a workhorse and led the team to the state tournament last season. Coach Sharpe believes that these players' experience and skills will have a significant impact on the team's success.
In terms of new players, Coach Sharpe is excited about the immediate impact she believes they will have on the team. She specifically mentioned Reagan McCavanagh, a sophomore pitcher who will be able to support Ruckle and help take some of the load off of her. With her skills and potential, McCavanagh is expected to make a significant contribution to the team's success this season.
When it comes to selecting team captains, Coach Sharpe looks for players who demonstrate qualities such as leadership, responsibility, and dedication. She mentioned that Kidd was one of the captains last season and expects her to continue in that role. However, she also believes in giving the team a say in who they want to follow and looks forward to seeing the players decide who will be the captains this year.
Team chemistry and camaraderie are vital elements for a successful team. Coach Sharpe understands this, and she has planned activities for the team to bond outside of softball. These activities range from self-defense classes to art sessions, and this year, they will be having a DIY Hat Bar. These activities help the team stay relaxed and focused, creating a positive team environment.
One of the biggest challenges in preparing for this season has been the weather. With the ground already saturated and more snowstorms expected, the team has been limited to practicing in the gym. However, Coach Sharpe believes that this will affect all teams in the area, and they will make the most out of the situation.
When it comes to coaching style, Coach Sharpe mentioned that she has relaxed a lot over the years. She has done extensive research and understands that what worked for her as a player may not work for her players. She now focuses on building a mutual respect and understanding with her players, and she believes that this has been beneficial for the team's performance.
The mental aspect of the game is crucial for Coach Sharpe and her team. She believes that staying loose and not focusing too much on the opponent has been key to the team's success in big games. Before games, the team plays silly games off to the side, which helps them stay within themselves and play their best.
The team's strengths include their belief and trust in each other and their commitment to improve. Coach Sharpe mentioned that the team has been dedicated to morning weight training, and the results have been evident on the field. With more players showing up for training, the team has gotten stronger and faster, which has translated to success on the field. As for weaknesses, Coach Sharpe believes that the team is still working on improving their finer details, but she is confident that with hard work and dedication, they will continue to improve.
Coach Sharpe's coaching philosophy revolves around building a strong team dynamic and helping players reach their full potential. She believes that the team's success is a result of players buying into the team's goals and trusting each other. She also focuses on helping players improve their skills and reach their personal best, which ultimately contributes to the team's success.
With a dedicated and talented group of players, a strong team dynamic, and a committed coach, the Louisa County High School softball team is looking forward to another successful season. Their goal remains the same as every year – to win another state championship. With their hard work, determination, and belief in each other, this team is sure to make their mark in the upcoming season.
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