Wittenberg-Birnamwood softball preview

Team: Wittenberg-Birnamwood

Conference: Central Wisconsin Conference-East Division

2022 overall results: 5-14 overall

2022 tournament results: Defeated Menominee Indian before falling to Oconto

Returning starters/varsity players (positions): Seniors: Jami Wendler (pitcher), Kiara Deruchowski (outfield, pitcher), Halle Beversdorf (outfield), Gwen Groshek (outfield), Lauren Bessette (infield), Madisyn Sippl (infield). Juniors: Camryn Miller (infield). Sophomores: Evelyn Fletcher (catcher), Sophia Lemieux (infield), Kylee Beversdorf (catcher, outfield).

New players who could make impact this season (positions): Juniors: Lillian Lemieux (infield, outfield). Sophomores: Ella Eichman (pitcher, infield), Olivia Bessette (catcher, infield). Freshmen: Rory Salvesen (infield), Brieleigh Ladika (infield, pitcher).

Returning all-conference players: Second team: Jami Wendler.

Coach’s comment on upcoming season: “I am looking forward to having a fun and exciting season,” said first-year head coach Joe Ladika. “We have a lot of returning players who saw significant playing time last year, along with some talented freshmen. We have good numbers out this season and the competition in practice is going to make us better as the season moves on.

“There is a lot of talent on this team and if they can gel together, understand their roles, and have a team first attitude, we should be a much improved team. I have been extremely pleased with the first couple days of practice, especially the way the girls have worked together, encouraged each other, and have had a positive attitude.”