After Coach April Schermann went undefeated in conference play during her 21st season last year, the Normal West Softball team looks to start strong in 2025.
Coach Schermann wants balance for her team, whether that be with team chemistry, individual player improvement, or growing as a person, outside of athletics.
One thing to know about the 2025 team is that there are many players who are eager to step up and play a huge role.
“While we graduated many seniors, our new players are eager to step up and make an impact. We have a strong work ethic, a willingness to learn, and a group that is hungry to prove itself.
Our pitching staff will be a key strength, and our team speed will allow us to be aggressive on the bases,” Schermann stated.
Schermann has an especially special place in her heart for Senior, Olivia Kobel, as she has been on the varsity squad for three years now.
Kobel is the sole returning senior starter, and Schermann is asking her to step up as a leader.
Kobel notes that this is a very emotional season for her.
“Every day this season feels more significant because I know it’s my last chance to compete at this level with this group of teammates. I also feel a bigger sense of responsibility- not just to perform well but to be a leader and a role model for the younger players,” Kobel expressed.
And ask Kobel noted, there are quite a few younger players to be that role model for.
“With a large group of new players stepping into key roles, one of our biggest challenges will be gaining experience and building chemistry on the field,” Schermann added.
The Wildcats have a longstanding tradition of success on the field, but the program, under the leadership of Schermann, is also known for many off-the-field activities to build team chemistry.
“Celebrating small successes along the way, maintaining a competitive practice environment, and emphasizing the importance of team chemistry all help keep the energy high. We also remind them to enjoy the process and play for each other,” Schermann stated of her process of keeping her team in lockstep.
In addition to teaching the newcomers how to play as a team, Schermann and Kobel also know that there will be some growing pains as players get used to a faster pace.
“Adjusting to the speed and intensity of varsity competition takes time, so our focus will be on developing confidence and consistency early in the season.
We’ll also be facing strong competition, so staying mentally tough, learning from mistakes, and continuing to grow as a team will be crucial to our success,” Schermann noted.
When asked who the team circled on the calendar is for the season, Schermann hesitated to name a team, noting that all games are important in the end.
“I won’t name any names because we don’t focus on the other team. We focus on ourselves and the ball. Whoever we play is just a faceless opponent,” Schermann said.
Kobel, on the other hand, has a familiar foe in mind when she thinks about who she’s looking forward to playing this year.
“I’m most excited to play Normal Community, it’s always a fun and very competitive game. Hopefully we’ll beat them the 8th year in a row this year!” Kobel added.
As the official start to the season quickly approaches, Kobel and crew are finding their way as a team. And for Kobel, a routine is key.
“I have a lot of routines and superstitions when it comes to softball game days! One that has been consistent for years is only wearing my left batting glove and putting it on before taking anything else out of my bag,” Kobel laughed.
Aside from her very-specific pregame ritual, Kobel hopes that she will be remembered as someone more than just great at softball.
“I want to be remembered as someone who gave 100% every day and lifted the people around me–not just for my performance on the field, but for being a supportive teammate and leader who helped make the program stronger,” Kobel noted.
In the end, Kobel will continue to lead by example and advises her young teammates to enjoy the ride.
“Enjoy every moment because it goes by way too fast. Work hard, stay coachable, and never take a single game, practice, or opportunity for granted. And play with a lot of confidence and have fun,” Kobel expressed.
The Wildcat’s first game is on Mar 17 at 4:30 pm at Bloomington Central Catholic. Go support this team as they are eager to win!
