This season the softball team has been working to build relationships while developing their skill. With the addition of a new assistant coach, McKenna Joern, and the implementing of old habits, the girls have created a safe space for all athletes on the team. 

“We have really good teamwork and everyone gets along really well… we have a new assistant coach and shes really brought us together,” said sophomore Laurali Thomas.

Many girls on the team acknowledge the routine team bonding they do as the reason they’re so close.

“We went for ice cream the other day and it was delicious,” said senior Daecia Lane.

Lane, a transfer last school year, has said that this team functions much better than the one at her old school.

“There’s more bonding, people are more together in a team… I’ve made new friends, a lot of new friends,” said Lane.

The girls create an open environment by being approachable for all the teammates. With the implementation of their Unity Council inspired by the Mizzou softball team, each grade level elects a council member and the council tries to create the best environment for the team. 

“Each grade level picks the person who they think would be the best leader, has the most character, [and] the one who they can go to if they need help with something or there’s a concern,” Head Coach Dave Jones said. 

This year the council is freshman Makenna Radtke, sophomore Laurali Thomas, junior Lamia Linson, and senior Meghan Aceves.

“It’s benefited our team and kind of understands what the girls want, and Jones does listen to us a lot…” said Thomas.

The implementation of Unity Council isn’t the only returning thing; the girls have kicked up speed in training.

“We’re working at a higher pace and faster rate, so it’s a little bit more straining … of course but the hard work is paying off and we’re seeing better results than last year,” said Thomas.