The Ashland softball team had a tough 3-19 season, but Coach Michelle VanHorn said that the young team started to find its groove as the season came to a close, giving them glimpse at a potential future turnaround.
“Going into tournament time I felt like we were at the family I knew we could be,” VanHorn said. “We looked good.”
What could have been better was the two hour drive we took to get Whitmer, VanHorn noted, saying that it was hard to get into game mode and resulted in the season ending shutout loss. VanHorn said the team faced a lot of different challenges on and off the field, and seeing them grow and become a feeling has been fun to watch.
“We might be young but I can definitely see a bright future for the Ashland Arrows,” she said.
This year’s team had three selections for All-OCC. Isla McFrederick was second team, with the sophomore leading the Arrows in batting average at .404 and always coming away with timely hits. She also stepped up by moving from outfield to catcher.
“She’s a powerful lefty that lead her team on and off the field,” VanHorn said. “Always having a smile on her face and played all out. Started as our Left fielder but when we asked if she could catch, she didn't hesitate. This is the player every coach prays for.”
Miley Baker was honorable mention for All-OCC, and was a rock at shortstop this year. She was a master of getting on base and brought a focus to the game. Her leadership was beyond her years as a sophomore, VanHorn said. Josie Van Tilburg was another honorable mention for All-OCC.
VanHorn also commended Gracie Ellis, who played top tier outfield tracking down fly balls. She had an outstanding junior year and VanHorn is excited to see how she plays in her final season as an Arrow.
Keegan Slater is a player who worked through injury while putting in quality innings in the pitching circle. She also played exceptional third base, and was a consistent force at the plate.
Maddie Hoffman tore her UCL in her elbow the second day of practice, but VanHorn said she led by example and shoed up every single day after.
“Cheering on her teammates, helping any way possible and staying late to put in extra time to gain strength for herself and the team next year,” VanHorn said. “We ended up calling her Coach Hoffman because of how amazing she was. Excited to see how we comes out of this next year even stronger.”
