Eighth grade softball ends solid season

Joe StangleThe eighth-grade softball team finished the season last Thursday at Howard Lake with an overall record at 4-4. Throughout this season, the Lady Cubs continually improved on their efforts against each team we faced. The girls were coachable, focused, and willingly developed skill in all aspects of softball.

Quality innings were pitched by Jami Weigelt, Amanda Schiefelbein, Whitney Gettler and Kim Capes. Kari Mackereth, Vanessa Gillman, Emily Linn and Rayell Berscheid played well defensively at first base. Kayla Hinkemeyer and Emily Linn split solid time at second base, with Katie Krantz, Nicole Konz and Amanda Schiefelbein holding down the shortstop position. At third base, Jenny Brutger, Kim Capes and Jami Weigelt played sharp. Mandy Libbesmeier did the majority of the catching this season, showing leadership and skill at a tough position. Toward the end of the season, Katie Krantz got behind the plate when Kim was pitching. Almost everyone took a shot at the outfield positions, Whitney Gettler, Vanessa Gillman, Jenny Brutger, Nicole Konz, Amanda Schiefelbein, Rayell Berscheid, Kayla Hinkemeyer, Jami Weigelt, Katie Krantz, Kari Mackereth, Emily Linn and Kim Capes all did a fine job.

We struggled in our first game of the season at Maple Lake, losing 16-13, but were able to return the favor later in the season to the Irish at Kimball, winning 12-11 in the bottom of the fifth inning. Against EV-W, we got our first sweep and handed Big Lake a loss. Rockford gave us some trouble and we just weren’t able to solve the pitching performance both times we faced HL-W-W.

I personally want to thank seventh grade coach Barry Strand and these girls for the autographed softball, effort and work ethic they brought to practice and games. It was enjoyable to watch them learn and get better as the season progressed. Great job, Lady Cubs!

2002 eighth Grade Softball Team overall record 4-4.