Despite the softball season starting out rough because they are a young team, the Lady Bears are currently 3-0 in district. According to head coach Dena Adkins, the girls are starting to find their way and work well with each other.

Adkins said the team’s goals are the same every year; first to win district, make it to playoffs, win in the playoffs, and then make it to Austin to the State tournament.

“Also, I want the girls to have fun while playing and make great memories,” Adkins said. “However, winning always makes the best memories.”

According to Adkins, one of the Lady Bear’s best strengths this year is their pitching depth. They have five pitchers on varsity that can start the relieve, and if one gets hurt then they have four other ones ready to pitch.

“Most teams cannot say that or do not have that luxury,” Adkins said.

One of Adkins’ favorite memories were the road trips because she really got to know the team. Another great memory of hers and senior Kayla Manuel’s was when they played “Catch Phrase” as a team at the hotel after games played in a tournament.

“I’m very sad that this is my last year of playing as a Lady Bear, but it’s going to be a good season to end on,” Manuel said.

This year Manuel is the only senior on the team and she said her goals for this season are to place first in district, make it to playoffs, all while having fun as a team.

“Our best quality as a team is the way we communicate with each other on and off the field,” Manuel said. “We are all strong leaders; there isn’t one individual that carries this team. We work as a team and win as one.”

Every year in the off season, the girls prepare for district play by getting into shape, whereas during the season they are more about fundamentals and practice.

According to Adkins, there are several different leaders on the team and all for various reasons. Some of the players Adkins pointed out as strong leaders are: junior Jenna James, senior Kayla Manuel, and freshman Madison Murdock. Adkins has also been impressed with two other freshmen on the team – Renna Toomey and Brianna Frenzel.

“Toomey can play anywhere – even pitcher and can hit and run,” Adkins said. “She also knows the game very well. (Frenzel) has really stepped up as a freshman and has done a great job pitching and hitting for the team. We are a well-rounded team and each player brings great things to the team.”