Coaches- John Larson (21st head, 22nd overall), Ron Wilson (vars. ass’t., 11th), Tracy Bartz (JV, 6th), Meghan Barker (fosh, 10th).
Last season’s accomplishments- 8-4 GNC, 3rd, 12-12 overall, lost to Mosinee in regional final.
Major losses- C Kendall Nelson (4-time 1st GNC, POY in 2012), OF Kasey Iwen (2x 1st Team GNC, POY RU in 2011), 3B Kelsey Paramore (1st & 2nd GNC), OF Saydee Juedes (HM GNC), OF Cassie Silvernale.
Key returnees- srs. IF Stephanie Welke (2nd GNC, .459 BA, .545 OBP, .486 slug, 29 R, 9 SB), IF Stephanie Schoone ( ), IF Ashley Berg (Most Impr.), P Sydney Myre (Most Impr.); jr. P Alex Duplayee (HM GNC,11-5, 2.75 ERA, 89 K in 102 I, .429 BA, .487 OBP, .486 slug).
Promising newcomers- sr. Tricia Kubitscheck, jr. Maggid Gudinas.
“Larson quotable- “The Lady Hatchet softball program looks to be competitive each day in practice and in games. If we can improve every time we step out on to the field we will be where we need to be at tournament time. Like any team we will need to stay healthy and have our young, inexperienced players grow up fast. The Hatchets have a good nucleus of veteran players returning who will provide a tremendous amount of leadership during the season.
“The absolute minimum we expect from everyone is being at the required practices, CHAMPIONS GIVE MORE!
“Tomahawk goals for 2013 are: to play as a TEAM; to give 100% each day at practice; to improve each day you step out on to the field, in practice and on game day; to represent our family, community, and school to the best of our abilities; to win conference, regional, sectional and state titles.
“This year’s team has will have a little of everything. It will consist of some experienced veterans who will provide a vast amount of varsity experience and great leadership. It has a group of role players from last year’s team that will step up and contribute on an every game basis. Last, there are the few that will be varsity newcomers and will need to grow up fast to play a big role in the season.
“All members of the team are very coachable and have enthusiasm for the game. The Hatchets work very hard and put “TEAM” needs above all else. They are fundamentally sound and have fun playing softball.
“There are several players vying for roster positions. Several roster decisions have not been made at this time.
“The 2013 Lady Hatchets’ attitude is outstanding, especially considering the weather and the amount of time we will have to be inside!
“Our strengths are a solid senior class, attitude, leadership, pitching, hitting, solid defense, coachable players and enthusiasm.
“The Great Northern Conference will be as competitive as ever in 2013. Mosinee is the early season favorite. They return most of their pitching, they have great team speed and are very well coached. The remaining contingent of the GNC will be as balanced as it has ever been. If you don’t come ready to play each game you will get beat. It will be another exciting year in the GNC.
“Our numbers are outstanding. We are able to support three teams.”