With a record of [0-1-1] in scrimmages and [0-1] in games, the softball team enters the season with its goal of making district. Scrimmages help the captain and coach know what the players need to focus on during practice and how they can fix mistakes. While in practice, the players show their talents by tackling defense, hitting, fielding, pitching and base running. As the team’s first game ended in a tie, the players plan to improve and give their best work on the field.

“Tournaments give us a lot of games to show us what we need to work on and give players playing time,” head softball coach Lori Alexander said. “We have really been focusing a lot on live ball game situations this year.”

As the players focus on positivity and giving their all, they believe they have a chance at becoming district champions. Even though each teammate has distinct attributes as a player, it is important for the coach and captain to know what position each player plays and can contribute to the team.

“I want [the team] to display positive attitudes, good vibes and for them to just believe in everybody else,” senior softball captain Allie Barentine said. “I like to know what everyone is capable of so I know who I can count on in what situation.”

This year, the team’s main priority has been to spend time as a family and encourage each other to obtain the best work from each player. With the help of the team on managing where everyone’s skills are, it gives the players extra time to focus on techniques during practice while still having fun and giving it all on game day.

“I feel like [this season] we bonded closer as a team than last year,” junior Emilee Till said. “[When the team isn’t at their best], I [motivate them by] hyping them up and telling them they’re doing good.”

As the team improves despite last years’ struggle of stability, the players’ main concern is to win district and beat their biggest rivals, Marcus and Flower Mound. Though the team has some time before playoffs and state, they hope to have fun and enjoy every game together.

“We struggled with consistency last year but Friday’s game against Allen really showed we are working on it much better,” Barentine said. “We want to win district this year; we want to get first.”