49th article at the Independent

SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW: Marshall softball

CHRIS DRUMMOND

cdrummond@marshallindependent.com

MARSHALL — After recording only four wins a couple of seasons ago, the Marshall Tigers softball team improved on that mark in 2021, earning double-digits wins (11) on its way to an 11-11 record. With 10 players returning from last year, Marshall will look to keep increasing that win total under coach John Houseman, who is entering his 24th year at the helm.

Leading the way for Marshall will be the team’s four seniors in catcher Leah Schafer, second baseman Ashleigh Steinbach and outfielders Brenna Springborg and Taylor Arisola. Junior third baseman Lexie Bednarek, shortstop Randi Wendorff, outfielders Lauren Wherry and Regan Loft and pitchers Olivia Houseman and sophomore pitcher Morgan Bjella will also look to make an impact.

Houseman talked about their strengths and areas of improvement for this upcoming season.

“Hitting is a strength for us,” Houseman said. “We need to improve in pitching out of situations and playing better defense.”

Coach Houseman also elaborated on what he is looking forward to the most this upcoming season.

“Competing in all games and sections,” Houseman said. “Specifically, competing for a conference championship in the third or fourth rounds of our section.”

Marshall’s first two games of the season were postponed, but will open the season on Thursday at Morris Area at 5 p.m.