Wrens compete in varsity softball for the first time in a decade

It has been 10 years since the Wrenshall Wrens fielded a high school softball team. A year ago the Wrens played a junior varsity schedule to help dip their toes in the water. This year they made the transition into a full-time varsity schedule.

"My expectations this season were that the girls have a fun first season as a varsity squad," said Wrens coach Anna George. "I try to put a big focus on mindset, which they giggle at sometimes but truly it makes a huge difference. My other goal is to always have them improving on something as individuals each game, and improve on something as a team each game."

It has been a whirlwind year for George, who not only has a softball team to worry about, but she also had a baby April 25. She has relied heavily on assistant coach John Peterson while she is out on maternity leave.

"This year has been a bit crazy," explained George. "John has really picked up the reins and done a great job for us."

The seed to start a softball program was planted three years ago when George was an assistant coach for volleyball and some of her players found out she had a passion for softball.

According to George, player Brooke Kent - who had a love of the game herself - asked if she could get enough kids to play on a team, would George think of coaching?

"I said yes, of course,"George said. "From there Brooke took the issue to the school board with a list of signatures from girls interested and said she had lined up a coach. They approved and things were a go!"

Once the school board made the decision to allow a team, George kicked things into high gear as they sorted through equipment and figured what things would be needed to put the Wrens back on the field for the first time in a decade. Another issue was the continual effort of making sure they would have enough players when the season began.

"Brooke and Lexy Perry both have a love for the sport and have been a constant in pushing other girls to come out and play and I can always count on those two," George said. "Those two were voted our team captains and rightfully so."

Not only have both Kent and Perry led off the field, they also have led on the field.

The Wrens have already notched a couple of wins this season.

George explained that Kent, a sophomore, is the Wrens pitcher - and an

asset for years to come in the batter's box as well - while Perry plays shortstop and is "a natural fielding through the ball" and making quick plays.

"[Lexy] has a beautiful swing as well," the coach said. "Plus there are some rookies that I hope stick around because they have some great potential and I expect that Jane Sjodin will be someone who will improve because she has an amazing work ethic."

With the kind of passion and drive shown by both the coaches and the players, fans of the Wrens can expect this group to continue to improve and show they have the potential to become a contender in small school softball.