With a current record of 5-1, Wakefield’s varsity softball team’s season is beginning the season with lots of anticipation and excitement. Although it’s early in the season, it’s easy to predict that this season will be one to remember, with many upperclassmen becoming leaders and lowerclassmen getting the chance to showcase their talent.

Senior Noa Grunow has played softball since seventh grade and has been dedicated to the sport as a second baseman. Grunow not only showcases her talent but makes sure to maintain a positive attitude on and off the field. 

“I try to be a source of encouragement for the team,” Grunow said. “Our team is continuously working hard on and off the field to become better each and every day.”

Sophomore Holly Work is another experienced athlete who has played softball since she was 8-years-old. As an outfielder, she might be the farthest from the batter, but she makes sure to maintain motivation and cohesion during the game. 

“I plan to focus on being a team player and grow within my skills,” Work said.

Along with their individual roles, the softball team shares a mindset for success. Hard work and perseverance will not only push them further in the season but motivate them towards victory. 

Senior Ariah Davis has an experienced eye for the game and plans to lock down on defense this year to get the team to conference and states.

“I am most excited about the camaraderie we have, which we’ve been building for the past four years,” Davis said. “I have a good time hanging out with my team; they’re a great group of girls.”

Coach Danny Inscoe, with 19 years of coaching experience, has an undeniable passion for the game and is dedicated to guiding his players to success. 

“I just try my best to allow everybody to fill a position on the team, whether it be a starter or a sub or pinch runner or pinch hitter, and honestly try to step back and see who fits where best for the team,” Inscoe said. “It’s going to change throughout the season because of injuries and people getting in slumps, but I just try to let everybody contribute the best that they can.”

Inscoe remains focused on his goal to value every individual player and use their strengths to better improve the team as a whole. As the season progresses, he draws on lessons learned from past years, and uses that to his advantage. Especially with many seniors leaving, the “softball family” has to grow and reform together. 

“I am going to miss the family aspect of softball,” Grunow said. “All of us are a team and we encourage one another.”

Unity is crucial to a successful team and bringing up one another will not only lead to a great season but a newfound family. Seniors will step off of the field better than when they first stepped on, leaving a mark on Wakefield’s softball team forever. 

“We plan on being successful by trusting the process and just slowly growing into the season by working hard together,” Davis said.