After graduating seven seniors last year, the varsity softball team enters the new season with only two
returning players. As the season begins, much of the roster is stepping into varsity positions for the first
time, shifting the team’s focus toward building chemistry and adjusting to new responsibilities on the
field.

Head coach Taylor Schwall, in her third year coaching and second year as head coach, said the graduation
of last year’s senior class significantly reshaped the team.

“We graduated seven seniors last year. This year, we only have two that are eligible to play, so two seniors
that are returning from that team,” Schwall said.

Because so many athletes are new to varsity, Schwall said practices have focused on building relationships
and developing a strong team culture.

“Now it is really focusing on team bonding. Focusing on personalities clashing together, [and] realizing we
are all a part of the same program,” Schwall said.

Senior Gracie Medin Semega, a catcher for the team and one of the returning varsity players, said the
team has mixed athletes into different groups during drills to learn each other’s playing styles.

“Getting ready for the season with many new players has included implementing a lot of group work when
we are doing hitting or fielding drills […] so everyone has a chance to work with different people,” Medin
Semega said.

She explained that this approach helps teammates understand how each player approaches
the game before taking the field together.
Medin Semega said she has also stepped into a leadership role, guiding underclassmen and helping
maintain team routines.

“I demonstrate drills when needed, and I am typically first in line for those drills. I started a group chat
with players only so we can all communicate with each other easier, [and] I also made a playlist for
practice and game days,” Medin Semega said.

Freshman Jacqueline “Jackie” Gracanin, who plays shortstop and catcher, said stepping into varsity has
been both exciting and nerve-racking. She added that the returning players have helped her adjust by
welcoming her and guiding her through team routines.

“The returning players are doing a good job by making me feel welcomed, teaching me the ways, and
making sure I know what I’m doing, and staying on track,” Gracanin said.

Schwall said the team has already begun building a supportive environment, with players encouraging one
another and keeping practices positive and energetic.
The team will take the field for their first game away against Coal City on March 17.