Lady Crusaders show strength despite going through change
Posted by The Skyliner on April 14th, 2010Billy Cannada
Staff Writer
Having played under three different coaches during their four years at North Greenville, the seven senior members of the softball team have undoubtedly experienced some dramatic changes.
The senior Lady Crusaders Hope Brewer, Krysta Laird, Tia LaFreniere, Jessica Turner, Kasey Templeton, Shealy Broome and Allison Bailey have had the task of adapting to an ever-changing softball program as a team and as individuals.
“It’s been hard for the seniors,” LaFreniere said of the coaching changes. “We have had to come back each year and re-earn our spot, but I think it keeps us in good competition.”
For these players, the roller coaster ride began on February 28, 2008 with the tragic passing of former head coach Buster Sturkie. Sturkie, who was only 59, died suddenly after a yearlong battle with cancer but coached the North Greenville softball team for each of its first nine games in the 2008 season.
“When Coach B passed it really brought us [the seniors] together,” said Brewer “We really meshed and we are so much closer because of our memory of him.”
After the passing of Sturkie, Athletic Director Jan McDonald accepted the interim head coaching position, where she remained for the 2008-2009 season and led the team to an even 18-18 record. Knowing the position was temporary, McDonald hired current head coach Sarah Hall to lead the Crusaders in 2010. Hall has coached her team to a 20-15-2 record and she believes the seniors have played a big role in her success this season.
“The seniors have been really patient with me and very respectful,” said Hall. “I know it’s a hard transition and I am a very different coach. They have really rolled with the punches and tried to do things the way I want them done.”
Although the seniors have had to adjust to three different coaching styles, they believe they have become better players because of it.
“All of the coaches have been different and have brought different things to the program” said team captain Bailey. “We have just been able to take certain aspects from each coach and build on it.”
Brewer believes that even though her career at North Greenville has not gone as expected, it has been successful. Brewer also said that the team is setting some high goals for the end of this season.
“In the past years we have gone to the regional tournament and gotten really close to winning it,” said Brewer. “We want to win Regionals this season and have a chance to compete in Nationals.”
Tags: Spring 2010, Vol. 110 - Issue 11