As the spring season approaches, all eyes are on the Ocosta Junior/Senior High School softball team. After an impressive season last year, the team is gearing up for another successful year under the guidance of head coach Makenzie Sylvester. With a mix of experienced returning players and talented new additions, the team is poised to make a strong run this season.
One of the key factors for the team's success will be their top returning players from last season. Coach Sylvester shared that their overall goals for this season are to play as a team where everyone has a role and knows how to execute it no matter where they are playing or batting in the lineup. This team mentality will be crucial in their success on the field.
Leading the pack of returning players is their powerhouse pitcher, Jessie Gilbert. As a senior, Gilbert will be competing in her final season and is expected to make a significant impact on the team's success. Alongside Gilbert, Noelle Cudzey, Jolissa Schlegel, Sophie Olive, and Gabby Ness are also returning players who will contribute to the team's success.
But the team's success is not only dependent on their returning players. Coach Sylvester also shared that they have some new players who will make an immediate impact on the team. Jessie Gilbert and Gabby Ness will be competing in their senior seasons, while Noelle Cudzey, Jolissa Schlegel, and Sophie Olive are all expected to make significant contributions as well.
When it comes to team captains, Coach Sylvester looks for players who lead by example and understand that the team's success is dependent on everyone's contributions. This season, Jessie Gilbert has been chosen as the team captain and has already shown her ability to lead by taking direct action to help her teammates succeed. However, Coach Sylvester also believes that sophomore Elly Mirante will have a great season and may also be a potential captain in the future.
Team chemistry and camaraderie are crucial elements of any successful team. To foster this, the Ocosta softball team will have team bonding dinners, small competitions during practices, and a team atmosphere where everyone is heard and supported. These activities will not only bring the team closer together but also create a positive and mentally tough team.
As with any sport, motivation is key to pushing players to their full potential. Coach Sylvester shared that team chemistry is a huge part of this, so they will work on building strong relationships among the players. Additionally, the coach will also use various techniques such as applying pressure, being stern, constant encouragement, positive reinforcement, and even punishments for errors to motivate each player to reach their full potential.
Preparing for a new season always comes with its challenges, and the Ocosta softball team is no exception. For Coach Sylvester, the biggest challenge has been getting to know the players and coaching staff who have been a part of the program for a long time. However, with time and effort, the coach is confident in building strong relationships with everyone involved in the team.
The team's schedule for this season is packed, with many non-league games scheduled to prepare the team for tougher opponents later in the season. Coach Sylvester shared that they are excited to see the team compete as a unit and play their part in every game. With a small league, it is essential to have a well-rounded schedule to ensure the team is adequately prepared for the challenges ahead.
As a new head coach for the Ocosta softball team, Coach Sylvester's coaching style may differ from previous seasons. However, the coach believes that her fresh perspective, being from a different area and having no personal ties to anyone, may bring a positive change to the team. Along with her coaching staff, Coach Sylvester is determined to lead the team to success this season.
While physical training and conditioning are crucial for any athlete, the mental aspect of the game is equally important. Coach Sylvester believes that the mental game is a significant factor in softball and is determined to create a positive and mentally tough team. With a goal to encourage players to have a "goldfish memory" and learn from their mistakes, the coach is determined to help the team overcome any challenges that come their way.
In terms of changes or improvements to the team's training and conditioning program, Coach Sylvester shared that they are focusing on building a strong mental game. By working on failing often and learning from it, the team is determined to become mentally tough and ready for any challenges that come their way.
In conclusion, the Ocosta Junior/Senior High School softball team is ready to take on the season with determination, teamwork, and a strong focus on the mental aspect of the game. With a mix of experienced and new players, under the guidance of Coach Sylvester, this team is expected to make a strong run this season. Fans and supporters of the Ocosta softball team can look forward to an exciting and successful season ahead.
Share With