The Northwestern softball team has begun its 2014 season strong and is looking to improve on the progress made last season. The team is returning 11 players, including five seniors, and has high expectations for this year.
Seniors Alex Price, Keely Bracelin and Lindsey Remien are this year’s captains, and along with seniors Katie VandeVoort and Jordan Biehle, they have taken the job of leading the newcomers and underclassmen.
“I am really proud of our seniors,” said head coach Chris Nachtigall, now in his third year at NW. “They do an excellent job of leading by example, displaying consistent intensity and holding the team to a higher standard.”
The Raider women have set many goals for their team this year, but the players said their biggest goal is to glorify God in everything that they do. Coach Nachtigall said he believes that through their continued progress over the course of the season and through the way they represent themselves they can glorify God.
“Our motto this year is one for all, all for one,” Biehle said. “We want to play for each girl next to us, and in the long run, we want to play for God.”
Nachtigall focuses on more than just winning, although he admits it is a goal.
“Winning is the ultimate goal every year, and getting to the national tournament would be a big step for us,” Nachtigall said. “The biggest areas for our improvement lie in gaining consistency, intensity and focus. Those things are probably the keys for us as we move forward.”
The Raiders were picked fourth in the preseason GPAC poll. They are currently 7-7 after their spring break trip to Tuscon, Ariz.
Juniors Jill Kleinhesselink and Kara Nonnemacher and sophomores Clare Ipema and Laura Hurley will contribute as returners to the squad.
The Raiders will travel to Missouri this weekend for a tournament.