“We return several players in key positions this year, but still have some holes to fill,” reported Coach Sieling.  “It will be interesting to see how our pitching staff develops and adapts to the pace of our season this year.  We have a lot of girls who have the potential to make a big impact on this team, so it will be interesting to see how they all come together and how the pieces of the puzzle come together.  If these girls are able to continue to work hard and learn from their experiences last year, I think we can be competitive in our conference and section this year.”

Returning starters include seniors Sydney Schaefer (OF), Sophie Koep (IF), Taylin Kramer (P/SS) and Kendra Klimek (OF), junior Kylee Dingwall (SS/P), sophomores Hallie Richter (OF), Claire Boesl (P/IF), Haddy Baune (P/IF) and Tahira Schaffran (IF), and freshman Maddy Stich (C).  Senior Kayla Bitzan-Anderson (IF), junior Jenna Sturges (IF) and sophomore Ava Santjer (IF) will also be in the mix for varsity playing time.

“(Assistant) Coach (Erika) Traphagen continues to do an excellent job of developing our pitching staff, which will be critical in a season like we are looking to have with a lot of games in a short amount of time,” stated Coach Sieling.  “I think this group is going to work hard to make things happen and they are all willing to step in wherever they can to help the team compete.  These girls are continuing to learn the game and always looking for ways to improve their softball IQ.”

Pam Schjei and Mikki Pikkaraine will round out the coaching staff.  Sieling thinks New York Mills, Browerville and Clinton-Graceville-Beardsley are the top teams in Section 6A, while CGB, Wheaton/Herman-Norcross and Hancock are the teams to beat in the Little Eight Conference.

“We are going to have to learn how to be aggressive and make things happen in the batter’s box this season,” concluded Coach Sieling.  “Also, we are going to have to be able to play clean defense consistently throughout the season.”