By Victoria Mezera
Softball is a form of modified baseball that came into existence in the late 19th century, derived from an indoor version of baseball. At Apopka High School, we have both a varsity and a junior varsity team, both of which have done very well in the past: going to state finals, regional championships, regional finals, district championships, and metro conference championships. We sat down with Mr. Macwithey, who coaches the teams here at AHS, and player Ashleigh Malone to find out what’s in store for the team this season.
Mr. Macwithey says he has “VERY high hopes for this season,” because last year they made it all the way to regional semifinals. They eventually lost to West Orange, who would later go on to win the state championship by a score of five to three. Ashleigh also has high hopes, and believes will be “able to make it to states if we work hard enough.” She also says that the coaches are very dedicate, and know how to push the teams to do their very best. This is easily believable, seeing as how the teams have done very well in the past. They’ve been to state finals twice, sixteen district championships, and two regional championships, along with six regional finals, and twenty metro conference championships. With these feats already under their belts, it’s no wonder they’re hopeful for the season ahead. Especially considering the fact that they have many returning players from last year’s team. They also are returning the starters from last year who finished ranking in the top ten in the state.
Overall, the team gets along well, with Mr. Macwithey saying, “Very well. They have played together for quite a long time and seem to be committed to our motto of ‘One Team, One Goal.’” And Ashleigh agrees with that sentiment and said that they get along well most of the time. With only about thirteen to fifteen girls, it’s easy to believe that over time they just grow to get along.
Needless to say, the spring season for softball at Apopka High School is looking pretty positive, and it hasn’t even begun. They have great returning players, a good history, and a great coach who believes in them, along with an encouraging team motto to cheer them on all throughout their season. If you have an interest in joining the team, tryouts begin on January 22nd, and will be held at the softball complex here on campus. If you are looking forward to seeing the team in action, their first regular game is on February twelfth against Edgewater High school.