Last year, the BSM varsity softball team took a hard hit when they found out their entire season was canceled because of the COVID-19 pandemic. This year, they have continued to work against the ongoing unusual conditions to have a successful season and make it back to the state tournament, and maybe even win it.

For the past 13 months, whether individually or collectively, the softball team has been training in preparation to get back on the field after almost two years without having the chance to play together. Last year’s lack of a season disappointed them for many reasons, but also motivated them in new ways. “I was sad because we wouldn’t get to play, and I knew we could’ve gone to state, but I was even more sad for the seniors because they wouldn’t get a last year. Our team is playing for them this season,” senior captain Carly Greene said.

The team is projected to be very strong this season, as the roster is almost completely made up of varsity returners. However, their biggest asset has to be the accomplished captain group they possess. Consisting of seniors Carly Greene and Michelle Doering, and juniors Sophie Melsness, Tibby Stewart, and Nicole Doering, these leaders see the team’s potential and aim to lead them to their ultimate goal: winning the elusive state tournament. “I am extremely confident in our abilities as a whole… We have a wonderful group of underclassmen, an experienced group of upperclassmen, and a great coaching staff to help guide us to success. We will have a very successful season; I am excited to see all we accomplish,” junior captain Sophie Melsness said.

However, the season is not without its challenges. Like all other high school sports being played this year, softball has had to adapt their habits to fit into the MSHSL COVID-19 guidelines. While some modifications, like the elimination of the traditional post-game handshake, aren’t as impactful, others are going to take more getting used to. “We sadly have to wear masks which is hard when it gets hot. We also can’t do team bonding or ride the bus together. That is tough because those are the best memories I have with softball,” Melsness said.

Despite these changes, the team has yet to lose their drive, as each day continues to bring hard-working practices and an enthusiastic attitude among the players. There is no sense of despair or anxiety when it comes to the limited season, but rather quite the opposite. “We have turned it up even more knowing that tomorrow isn’t promised. We are taking extra precautions to keep each other safe and healthy so we can continue to play,” Melsness said.