Photo by Daemyn Broxterman
Hastings softball has a deep roster this season, creating competition for playing time while giving players opportunities to contribute in different roles.
With several talented players on the team, the Tigers are working to build chemistry, adjust to different lineups and help each other succeed.
“Most teams automatically split into underclassmen and upperclassmen, but everyone on our team can be a leader,” Junior pitcher Ella Tinsman said. “Everyone on the team has a role, and this year everyone has accepted that role very well.”
Tinsman said those roles range from starting games to playing unfamiliar positions or providing energy from the dugout.
Sophomore Gianna Ostrander said the team’s success depends on players supporting each other, regardless of their individual responsibilities.
“Every person brings something different to the team, and that’s what makes us stronger,” Ostrander said.
Coach Blake Marquardt said the depth of the roster has created healthy competition during practices as players work to earn opportunities.
“It pushes each athlete to improve because they know teammates are ready for opportunities as well,” Marquardt said.
The coaching staff also says practices are the most important this season, working through problems and adding in new elements to grow their game. Some practices focus on mechanics and fundamentals, while others challenge players to respond to mistakes and difficult situations.
“The goal of those tougher practices is to make practice harder than the game so that when game day arrives, our players can compete with confidence, stay relaxed, and trust their preparation,” Marquardt said.
For Ella Tinsman, trust is especially important when she is pitching. She said knowing her defense will respond after a mistake allows her to continue competing. When she is not pitching, she tries to provide the same support to her teammates. Tinsman is a division one offered pitcher, with strong hitting abilities as well, but she says it is her team that gets her through games.
“I think it is really important to trust my teammates behind me, and to just know that if I do make a mistake, my defense has my back and can pick me up,” Tinsman said.
The players have also spent time together outside of games and practices. Ostrander said team dinners and the team’s first overnight tournament helped strengthen relationships among teammates.
“We had such a good time together off the field, but then we also came out and played amazing,” Ostrander said.
Marquardt said the team’s work began during the offseason, when participation was among the strongest he has seen. Players held one another accountable in the weight room and during softball activities, he said.
That work has contributed to growth among younger players. Marquardt said Sophomore Brianna Woodworth has shown significant improvement on the infield, while Freshman Lucy Cervany has contributed at second base, shortstop and center field.
Senior Gracie Craig has also taken on a leadership role, encouraging teammates to participate in summer opportunities and helping keep the team connected and focused, Marquardt said.
As the season continues, Hastings will rely on its depth while players adjust to different lineups and roles preparing for state softball, on October 19th.
“Most importantly, we play for each other with a common goal in mind — October 19th,” Marquardt said.
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