Without predicting exactly how far her team will go this season, softball Head Coach Ari Bulthuis is feeling good about her squad's talent and how they will perform.
With only four returning sophomores, the Cyclones gained a slew of freshmen, many of whom are utility players or can offer versatility in a variety of positions.
"We have a lot of versatility and a lot of options. We're ready to play, and I have a good feeling we'll go a long way this season," Bulthuis said, entering her fifth season leading the program.
The returners include utility/infielder Brialynn Mica (Plainfield Central), utility/outfielder Emma Hansen (Andrew), utility player Stephanie Lohman (Lincoln-Way East) and catcher/infielder Marissa Walsh (Oak Forest). Mica has a strong arm and is a talented all-around athlete. Hansen had a strong offensive season last year, averaging .373 at the plate, and will play tight defense in the outfield. Walsh is a leader who helps bring everything together, especially as a catcher, acting as a "hype woman" for her teammates. Lohman is taking on more leadership and has worked in the offseason to improve her production at the plate.
Among the newcomers, Brooklynn Sedlak (Shepard) is a talented all-around player who should make an impact as infielder, pitcher – with good speed on her pitches – and at the plate. At catcher and third base, Estelle Loth (Sandburg) has a lot of power she brings with her bat. Annabelle Rush (Oak Forest) has solid speed for the outfield and a good swing. Outfielder Madelynn Larmon (Oak Forest) also has been working hard at her batting, which should be a threat in the team's arsenal.
Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference games are always important, but the region ones matter more, Bulthuis said. The team is ready for any matchup, and the coaches are ready to see how the team can improve even more throughout the season.
"I'm excited to see all the work from the winter pay off this season. This is a good group of players," she said.
Bulthuis will be joined in the dugout by returning assistant Sam Owens and a new face, Alix Mendoza.
The Cyclones' home opener is March 27, 3 p.m., against Oakton College.