With nearly all of last year’s roster, Kankakee Valley’s softball head coach Eric Maple looks forward to a good year.
The team is also eager to play this season, coming from a 14-12 campaign. Maple described the girls’ offseason as productive, with players excited to translate their work into success on the field. The team’s sophomore class and returning players at major positions bring more experience, which should help reduce early-season mistakes.
“We put a lot of work into the offseason. We have a very consistent group this year,” he said. “We return everybody but one, so we’re going to be young again as we were last year, going into it, knowing that we’re going to make some young mistakes, but move through it. So we’re really excited to get going.”
Practices and tryouts have emphasized cohesion, leadership, and preparing the young squad for the challenges of a competitive conference.
“We’re going to have some fun this year. We got a pretty wild bunch when things get chaotic, I think that’s when we’re going to thrive,” Maple added, praising the team’s chemistry and energy.
Looking ahead, the Lady Kougars are motivated, competitive, and ready to test themselves against the toughest opponents.
“Talented group of girls…pretty hard-nosed kids,” Maple commented.
