Spring sports are just around the corner and that includes girls softball. Softball is one of the many spring sports offered at West and there are many new and returning athletes who are looking to build off of last season. 

Last season the team finished with a 10-17 record and ended third in the conference. Head coach Kelly Kleppin is looking to continue growing and having an improved record from last year. 

“I feel that the previous season was a growing season for us. We didn’t have many seniors and most of our players were underclassmen,” Kleppin said. “We developed good camaraderie and team chemistry. Although our record didn’t reflect a lot of wins, we played competitive teams and stayed close with them.” 

The new season brings new and existing faces. Kleppin is excited to have much of the team returning and to see how the players work together. 

“I am looking forward to building even more and competing at a higher level. After only losing two seniors, we will have most of the team back, so I am predicting that we will be even stronger and hopefully have a lot more wins,” Kleppin said. 

Senior and first baseman Ava Hester feels the same way and has been on the softball team since freshman year. Hester has loved every part of being on the team and is looking forward to her last season. 

“My favorite part about being on the softball team is that it truly feels like a family,” Hester said. “I’ve been playing softball with most of these girls since I was little, and the new girls I’ve met through Niles West softball have added even more to the team. All the chemistry we’ve made on the field really makes playing the game even more enjoyable.”

Hester wants to make the most of this season and has set goals she hopes to reach with the team while also having fun. 

“My goals for the team this season are to win conference and regionals, take accountability and always put in our best effort whether that’s at practice or in a game,” Hester said. “I also want us to have fun with it because even though it’s not everyone’s last season, it is for a lot of us.”

Senior pitcher and outfielder Penelope Hutchison has also played West softball since her freshman year. She has goals for herself and the team and is ready for the upcoming season. 

“I want to work on my pitching this season and just enjoy my last year with all of the girls on the team and have fun,” Hutchison said. 

The team has their first home game March 18 against Evanston Township High School.