Fall-Ball Coming to an End for 'Berg Softball

For the women's softball team at Heidelberg College, fall-ball has been a tradition since the 1980's. It is a time when the team has a chance to come together an practice before the true season begins. Also, it is a great way to introduce freshman to what the program is all about.

Head coach Wendy Rochon and assistant coach Jenny Carroll have been working the team hard for the last couple of weeks through a progressively structured program focused on conditioning and fundamentals.

"We have quite a young team this year," commented Rochon, "There is definitely room for growth and development."

Carroll, recently added to the coaching staff has also helped contribute to the team dynamic this fall. "She has great insight to the OAC and the competition involved and knows what we need to be getting done in order to contend," Rochon stated.

The fall-ball season has culminated for the last five years with the annual Alumni Softball Game, in which alumni from as far back as the 1980's have comeback to challenge the new team.

"With the alumni game, the best of the best return and even though they may have gotten a bit rusty, they still can put up a fight," remarked Rochon, "Two years ago they even took us to 14 innings."

Rochon believes the game is not only about keeping alumni involved in the program, but about giving the current team a chance to challenge more than themselves. With a small roster this year, scrimmaging in practice requires players to change positions regularly. By playing against a fully-stocked alumni team, the team has the opportunity to play a full seven innings in their proper place on the field.

This year, the game will be played on Saturday, Oct. 13 at Mayer Field. The first pitch will be thrown at 1 p.m.