The girls of the Jonathan Alder softball team have been preparing all year round for their upcoming season. However, their first official practice began on February 22. Head coach Dave McGrew talked about how the girls have been working in the off season, “The Plain City indoor league helped because we faced really good pitchers for ten weeks.” The Pioneers have high expectations from their coaches. McGrew tells his goals for this season saying, “Naturally my goal for this team is a state title but I would say our true goal is to focus on getting better daily and preparing for our next opponent.”  This year, the Pioneers will return eight starters and three additional letter winners. They will have eight seniors on the team as well.  

     The schedule for the Pioneers is nowhere near easy. Senior Mady Watson expressed her feelings about who the team’s biggest competition will be, “To be honest I think our biggest competition will be ourselves. Our team is scrappy, hardworking and never gives up.” Watson’s team goal for this season is also to win a state title. The Pioneers will truly have to give it their all this season to meet everyone’s expectations and go out with a bang.

     The Pioneers season opener is on March 26 at Pastime Park. The game will take place under the lights at 8 pm against West Jefferson High School.