Taking a swing at year two!

   While there is a new coach for the softball team, there is also a lot of familiarity, as only three players left the team after the 2024 season (two to graduation)—and that familiarity looks to serve the team right for this coming season. 

 “It was definitely a learning curve, a developmental year,” says sophomore Ava Hlavacek about last year, who is returning after being one of the 18 first year players last year. “Yes, it was about growing as a player, but also growing with my teammates,” she adds. “I love them so much. It was the bond between us that brought me back for year two.” 

   Hlavacek goes on to consider their strengths and opportunities for the team. “We were a strong defensive team last year,” she explains. “It was the offense that needed more attention.” 

   The softball team will kick off their home opener this Sunday, March 2 at 2 pm against Lewis and Clark. Following that, March 8 and 9 will see an entire weekend of games in Forest Grove against the University of Puget Sound. 

This story was originally published in the Pacific Index, Pacific University's student newspaper. Used with permission.