The Kodiak girls load the bases during their first game at home against the Brewster Bears. The team didn’t come out with a win; however, they showed toughness and continued to play hard no matter what the outcome was. This year the softball team has new coaching, new players and new positions, but these girls already work together and look like a family out on the field.
“I think the game went well. I am very proud of the team for continuing to play hard every single inning. We have improved so much from day 1 and it was awesome seeing that on the field,” said coach Lauren Hecker.
For a couple of players this was their first-ever high school softball game. “The softball game was a disappointing loss, but I know we got better from it, and we tried our best,” said Eveyln Sohn (9).
With the Kodiaks up to bat Kat Kocher (10) steps to the plate, gets her stance ready and makes it to first base. With a Kocher on the bases, the girls in the dugout were cheering her name. Kocher made it all the way to third base with her other teammates batting. Kodiaks were down but their energy was up.
Another player who shined during this game was Adi Castaneda (10); this was her first time playing in a high school softball game, but she showed that she knew what she was doing. Castenda was aggressive during base running; she took the opportunity to attack bases even if meant getting a little dirty.
Not only was their offense energetic, but so was their defense. With senior Natalie Sanchez (12) pitching for the first time she adjusted well to the different batters and found the perfect spot to throw the ball.
Catching for Sanchez was Karlyn Kocher (12). Kocher proved that she knew what she was doing by keeping the ball in front of her and throwing it to where it needed to be. “I think everybody did well playing their positions,” stated Kocher. The softball coach, Lauren Hecker, was very proud of how Sanchez improved her pitching throughout the game and how Kocher adapted to the ball.
Despite the many changes this season, the girls are learning to adapt well and play with their heart as a family and not just teammates. “I think the game went well. I am very proud of the team for continuing to play hard every single inning. We have improved so much from day 1 and it was awesome seeing that on the field,” said coach Lauren Hecker. This was just the first game and there are many more to come.
Even though the team didn’t win, they showed everyone watching that they have grit and passion for the game and the team. Coaches and managers can’t wait to see their improvement in the next games to come. “I think our first game left a lot of room for improvement and I hope we can improve as a team and individually to have a better season,” stated softball captain Natalie Sanchez. The team itself has high hopes for improvement and wins for upcoming games. Fans can support these lady Kodiaks at their next home game on April 20th at noon.