Women’s softball has no time to practice outside before Arizona trip
By Courtnie Martin, Sports Reporter
With the women’s softball team nearing their season opener, the squad can’t be too happy with the dearth of outside practicing opportunities afforded by the recent weather. Forced to seek an alternative, it was imperative the Royals did as much indoor practicing as possible before their yearly trip to Arizona.
The young team is filled with massive talent, and with nine freshman and only four sophomores on the roster, their talent, rather than their experience, is what they’ll have to rely on.
“Chemistry absolutely helps with the team dynamics and bonding as we head into the season,” said head coach Michelle Peters. Peters described her defensive team as strong and accompanied by a fast outfield, which should allow Douglas to be very competitive this year.
By relying on a smaller roster, every athlete is expected to majorly contribute. Two such athletes are freshman Tori Belton and sophomore Hillary Strelau. Belton, who played minor ball as well as Team BC alongside Strelau, will lead the way on the mound. Strelau is the team’s ball-park hitter and on “D,” the middle of the infield/outfield.
Peters commented on her coaching expectations: “Two years is a very short time to have these athletes, and it is my goal that these girls will move on with more knowledge of the game, understanding of what they are capable of, and confidence with their abilities. My hope is for these ladies to continue on with softball for as long as they can and to pass along their experience and knowledge and one day give back to the sport they love while inspiring others.”
Arizona was a solid showing for the team. The trip included three practices, and six games in which they went 5-1. They were successful hitting the ball and the pitchers came to play, and on the defensive end, the Royals looked to be pretty consistent and were confident with their game.
“I am very happy with how the girls played, winning most games by a stretch of runs and keeping the pressure on each inning, along with great pitching and team defence to keep the teams at bay made me excited for the upcoming season,” Peters finished.
