Even with barely enough players to field a softball team this year, Coach Claire Daniels is optimistic about the upcoming season. After taking the Wiscasset High School girls’ varsity softball team to its first playoff game in years, Daniels returns for her second year as coach to pick up where the Wolverines left off last season.

“My philosophy is building confidence in the athletes by giving them the fundamentals to play,” Daniels said.  This year she said she plans to start explaining and teaching the meaning of the short game.

“For sure the numbers hurt us. We had two other players, but they fell through. But the girls are dedicated to be at every game and practice. They are willing to put aside other sports and driver's education during the season so the team can have its numbers to play,” Daniels said.

Daniels said that she sees strong pitching and hitting so far and is excited about the growth of her players over last year.

Seniors Megan Corson and Heidi Pinkham and junior Abby Dunn will be leading the team in pitching. “Each pitcher has learned and mastered different pitches,” Daniels said.

Corson also plays second base; Dunn can play second base and left field; and Pinkham will also play center field.  

“Briana Goud (junior) brings her awesome glove and arm as a catcher and her batting is on point this year. Tylan Onorato (sophomore) came out of the blue this year. From last year to this year she has come miles and has earned the spot as starting shortstop,” Daniels said.

Also returning to the squad this years are Hannah Campbell, a junior who is currently working through an injury and is hopeful to play third base. Sophomore Kayla Gordon will play first base; Charlene Reed can play left field, third base or second base; and Katie-Lynn Mills will see action in right field.

Only one freshman, Colleen Hendricks, joins the team this year. “She is showing huge potential for being a great first basemen and a strong hitter,” Daniels said.

The girls have a few scrimmages scheduled before opening their regular season at home with Lisbon on April 19 at 4:30 p.m. Click here for the full season game schedule.