Fresh faces, big goals: the new era of CMHS softball

By Bryce Milburn 

Sports Editor 

The Crete-Monee softball team's season just started. With numerous players, new coaches, and a brand-new turf field, the Warriors are in for an entirely new season. 

Photo by Emily Gerth.

The players discussed their feelings before the season. The Warriors are looking to build off their 12-15 record from last season. They are off to a 1-1 record so far.

"I'm very excited and very nervous,” senior outfielder Carli Sawallisch said.

Senior outfielder and Jackson College commit Raechel Lindsay added to that with, "I'm ready to play on the new field, and I'm really excited, and hope to get some wins on the new field.” 

More than 30 girls tried out for the girls' softball squad this year. The team chemistry is hard when someone has to connect with 30 players. 

Senior infielder and Governor State University commit Taleeana Ramirez, who has played softball all four years, said the team chemistry hasn't been that good.

"As of right now, it is okay. I see some people as off-putting because we don't know each other. In order to win, we need better team chemistry. In the past, we haven't worked well together. I feel like it would benefit us overall if we had good chemistry,” Ramirez said.

The team will face new challenges as the season progresses.

“I definitely think it's motivation for some people, and I think it's mental blocks. And I think that's the hardest part with that. And learn how to deal with failure,“ Sawallisch said.

Crete-Monees' fields are located just outside the highschool and are ready to be used, providing a convenient space and easily accessible space for athletes and the team.

"I like the new turf field. It eliminates a lot of the manual labor (like raking) and gives the girls a chance to adjust their game. The facilities are beautiful, and you can really feel the pride in representing CMHS on that field,“ Assistant Coach Perez said

As stated by Freshman Nadia Love, the team has good leaders. With Carli and Talee helping teach the younger players, keeping them motivated and making them want to play better. 

“Yes, there are a few seniors who have really stepped up into a leadership role on the team. They guide newer players, help facilitate practices, and uphold the high expectations of the program,” Perez said.