DGS softball’s pre-season training is out of the park

The+two+best+people+to+dive+into+the+sports+world+

Madeline O'Neil

The two best people to dive into the sports world

The varsity softball team has been preparing for the season they have ahead of them. Each individual has been working vigorously to improve the 2020 season long before their season begins. Junior Sara Scolan has been playing on her club team in her off-time and describes how she has prepared for the up-coming school season.

“I have been working super hard with my travel team to fine tune everything. I have been working out to get stronger for this highschool season,” Scolan said.

The girls have trained three times a week in the DGS weight room since Nov. In addition to weight training, the softball team has also had a few open gyms. The girls have trained with their travel teams as well.

The girls have been training with coach Jim Cushing, who has been coaching for 28 years. The team will face challenges with a new set of players, however.

“Every year is a new challenge. We will be inexperienced in a few key positions but it just means that there are greater opportunities for other people to step up,” Cushing said.

Senior Heather Lea has been playing at the varsity level for all four years of high school. While they had a successful season last year, she is motivated to do even better in the 2020 season.

“I want to win the sectional final. We made it to the [sectional] game last year and lost in extra innings 2-1. It was an intense and great game, but of course, it didn’t end how we wanted. This year, we are all eager to get back to that spot and win that game,” Lea said.

The new season allows for a new chance to improve their record. However, for junior Jordyn Spencer, it’s not all about winning, but rather bonding with her team.

“I am always a little nervous at the start of a new season, but I am also excited to make new memories and gain new experiences with new teammates and coaches,” Spencer said.

Coach Cushing also shares his thoughts on how he hopes his team will stay successful both on and off the field.

“My number one goal is to help make every player the best they can be by the time they graduate. I also want them to enjoy their experience and have fun,” Cushing said.

The team is motivated to do well in the upcoming spring season. Lea also speaks on what she hopes the girls focus on in their training and future games.

“I think that we want to take care of the little things. By making sure we do everything that we can control, I think it’ll lead to more success in the season. We want to put in a lot of hard work and learning at the beginning of the season and then learn from each game. I think that in order to be successful, we need to learn from everything we do,” Lea said.