by K. Elser
A high school program (9 – 12) is allowed by the state to have ten total days of hitting skill development from January 1 until the first day of practice (May 1). Head coach, Keith Swenson, and assistant coach, Jada Marco, run the practice every Saturday morning. Practices are in 1 – hour intervals. A session is offered from 8-9, 9-10, and 10-11, depending on which session you signed up for prior.
There are many different drills that the team goes through. One of the drills includes using weighted bats. The team uses small weighted bats and big weighted bats. The small ones are used for single-arm drills, and the big ones are used for full swings. Another drill that the team does is the “Happy Gilmore”. The batter stands around 3 feet away from the tee and crosses their feet until their feet are planted, then you swing away.
As the season slowly approaches, the Sibley – Ocheyedan Softball Team is coming back from a 15-10 record. The team has many players returning after only losing four seniors. The Generals are preparing for another great season.