With a 4-2 win against Plainfield North last night, the softball team has stepped up to the plate again this season, as they were the IHSA State champs last year with a 4-1 win against Barrington High School.
“This season I am most excited to be playing with all of my friends and to hopefully keep the winning state record,” said OH senior left-fielder Bri Perry.
In contrast to the strong finish last summer, this season started with a loss against Ottawa on Mar. 19 and three others against Benet Academy (2-8), Lemont (1-6), and Naperville Central (5-6).
The team recovered with wins against West Aurora (6-1) and Columbia (3-0) by the end of March and since have turned the season around for a current 18-12 record so far.
OH senior first base team member Betsy Jack said, “I try to stay motivated during tough games or practices by just remembering that it will only make me and my team better for future games.”
With a focus on strengthening their offense and defense, the Panthers are determined to showcase their talent and teamwork for the remainder of this season.
“My biggest goal for myself this season is to just have fun and to play my game,” Jack said.
Each player comes with their own unique strengths and weaknesses, so prioritizing their own performance, setting goals, and being in the moment is most important.
“I stay motivated by making sure I get out of my head, take deep breaths, and make sure to get mental rest,” Perry said.
In any sport it’s easy for players to get caught up in their minds and to overthink. The key to a successful game is for a player to focus solely on their own performance while working alongside their teammates.
Current seniors Brynn Broughton, Lana Manikowski, Betsy Jack, Ahlivia East, Kennedy Gengler, Amylah Thomas, Julia Blomstrand, Brianna Perry, Jaelynn Anthony, and Maya Zamora will be in their last high school season, which they celebrated Thurs., April 30, at senior night during a game against Joliet Central. The team won this game with an impressive 20-5 score at home.
“My biggest advice that I would give to younger players who are just starting off softball would be to really enjoy the time you have because the time goes by so fast, and to play your heart out,” Perry said.
These seniors are all committed to a variety of college teams, from Division I to Division III universities to play throughout their college years, as they continue their student-athlete careers.
These athletes will play their last home game on Fri. May 22 against Minooka High School in field four, before hoping to continue their journey to Sectionals and IHSA State in June.
Hi! My name is Leah Fetro. I am a senior here at OH and it is my first year as a journalist with 42Fifty. I am excited to see what this year holds! You can contact me by emailing 42fifty@sd308.org and putting my name in the subject line. We welcome comments on our articles and feedback on our publication!
