Lady Mules return to softball action

For the first time in three years, the Wahkiakum High School has a softball team. The Lady Mules also have a new coach, Stephanie Green. Of the 13 girls who turned out this season, only four have played the sport before. The team played their first three games this week and lost them all, but according to Coach Green, the athletes have shown a lot of growth.

Last Wednesday on the road, the Lady Mules lost 15-0 to Pe Ell/Willapa Valley.

"Defensively we didn't do too badly," Coach Stephanie Green said, "The girls had first game jitters, but we took some great steps forward. It was a great experience for them to play the team that placed second in state last year. They were exposed to stealing and other situations and have a lot of growing to do but each day they continue to impress me with the strides they are taking and with their effort."

On Friday, the Lady Mules hosted Morton/White Pass and lost 21-4.

"The score does not depict the defensive and offensive growth of this team," Coach Green said. "Their determination and effort for such a young and eager group is admirable. I'm proud of the steps forward that they are taking."

"Individually, the girls are improving skill wise," she continued. "From taking pitches, to fielding and knowing what to do with the ball when they get it, to how to play different aspects and situations of the game. Team wise, they are working hard at hitting the cutoff and relaying, communicating to get the next out, and learning when not to throw the ball and when to make the play."

On Tuesday, the Lady Mules traveled to Napavine and lost 17-0.

"The girls got some heat tonight from the pitcher, but didn't back down," Coach Green said. "Our batting is coming along. Shantelle Shervey has been able to get a bat on the ball almost every time she has been up to bat. The games are so different from the pitching machine and what the girls are eyeing from the opponents. Defensively, girls are starting to learn more and to see other options of where to make plays. Cecilia Williams is improving every day and making good stops and plays at first while Rebekah Neves and MJ Neves are really playing up the middle, making great stops and decisions. The outfield is learning to turn and run after balls that are hit over their head and hit the cutoff. All small but forward steps."

The team travels to Ilwaco today (Thursday) and will face Onalaska at home on Friday.