The 2009 softball season has been an exciting one for the Griffins, and especially for junior Maggie Jones.
“Coming off a very rough season last year, I was just hoping for our team to come out and improve from the previous season,” said Jones.
By Megan Seigh
Staff Writer
The 2009 softball season has been an exciting one for the Griffins, and especially for junior Maggie Jones.
“Coming off a very rough season last year, I was just hoping for our team to come out and improve from the previous season,” said Jones.
Last season was tough for the team to get through, but they saw the light at the end and hoped for better luck in the new season.
“We have definitely superseded any expectations I had by coming out and not only improving from last year, but also by really making a name for our school in the West Virginia Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WVIAC). It is a great feeling to see where the softball program was last year and where the softball program is this year and how far we have come,” Jones said.
Jones had a rewarding season of playing softball.
“Overall, I think I have improved from my previous seasons. This year I worked hard to improve my batting and I think it shows, but I know I need to keep working at it to become a consistently good hitter.”
It takes a lot of work to prepare for any sport so the off-season is the time athletes take to develop their skills.
“Defensively, I worked and conditioned my body in the off-season to improve certain agilities and side-to-side quickness which I think has made me a better fielder this year as well.”
What will the future of the team be? Jones expects only great things in the coming season.
Jones said, “We have a very young team; in fact, I will be the only senior next year. I look forward to leading our team and if everyone is able to put the time and commitment into the team like we did this year, I expect nothing less than a WVIAC conference championship.”
The future of the softball program looks very promising. Even after Jones graduates, the program should continue to improve and dominate in the WVIAC. Jones is a vital member of the team but praises her teammate’s equal efforts.
“It is rewarding to know that those who commit will succeed, which has been the case for not only myself but also for all of my teammates this season. Each individual has made a positive contribution to our team’s success this season,” said Jones.
Griffins softball is heading towards a competitive, but exhilarating season next year. Jones takes a look back at the role models that helped her get to where she is today.
Jones said, “I attribute all of my personal success thus far in my athletic career to my parents who truly have shown me the rewards of hard work, to my coach for never settling for less than my best, and to my teammates for always pushing me and believing in me.”