Last season, the Kimball Cubs softball team ended a 23-3 season by falling just short of a section crown. The Cubs lost to St. Cloud Cathedral, 3-2, in the section championship game, unable to force that second championship game. The Cubs lost four seniors from that Section 6AA runner-up team, but return three seniors to this year’s group, one working under the motto of “Clear eyes, full hearts, can’t lose.”
“I feel it fits exactly what I am most looking forward to this year. I want to see this team and program truly compete with their hearts,” Cubs head coach Emily Greniger said via email. “Not because they want awards, accolades, recognition, or to live up to the expectations of others, but because they have a passion for the game, and want the opportunity to make the next play.”
The team lost center fielder Allie Leither, first baseman Brooke Stelten, right fielder Natalie Loehrer, and outfielder Paige Merten to graduation last year, but return three seniors including catcher Samantha Winter, second baseman Elaina Fink, and left fielder Zoe Stuve. Coach Greniger looks for this year’s seniors and experienced underclassmen to lead.
“I see our seniors leading with empathy and wisdom. Their love of the game is evident at each practice this season,” coach Greniger said via email. “Many of our underclassmen have a year or more of experience playing at the varsity level, and I am eager to see this play to their advantage leading those who will fill the spots of seniors last year. “
From seventh to twelfth grade, the program has 42 student -athletes participating this spring. It’s a group that returns much experience. This experience at key positions is something coach Greniger views as a strength for her group heading into the 2025 season.
“We have depth in pitching,” Coach Greniger said via email, “and many players who are dedicated to the sport year-round.”
She has seen positive signs from her group so far in practice.
“Our group has been motivated and trying to squeeze every last bit out of each practice time we have,” Coach Greniger said via email. “Many of them have put in lots of time in the offseason to get better and it is showing. I am excited for the potential of this group!”
The team opens its spring season at Foley on Friday, April 4.