The Western Washington University softball team is a force to be reckoned with in the NCAA Division II. With a rich history of success and a strong team dynamic, the Vikings are always a contender in the Great Northwest Athletic Conference (GNAC). As we head into the new season, let's take a closer look at the team's strengths, weaknesses, and what we can expect from them.
Team Overview
The Western Washington University softball team is led by Head Coach Amy Suiter, who has been at the helm since 2005. Suiter has built a program that is known for its toughness, discipline, and teamwork. The Vikings have consistently been one of the top teams in the GNAC, with multiple conference championships and NCAA tournament appearances.
Returning Players
The Vikings return several key players from last year's team, including junior pitcher Emily Benson, who was named the GNAC Pitcher of the Year in 2022. Benson had a stellar season, going 20-6 with a 2.14 ERA and 143 strikeouts. She will be joined in the circle by senior pitcher Shearyna Labasan, who had a 15-5 record with a 2.63 ERA.
In the infield, the Vikings return junior shortstop Emily Boissoneault, who hit.337 with 10 home runs and 35 RBIs. Junior first baseman Anna Kasner also returns, after hitting.316 with 7 home runs and 30 RBIs.
Outfield
The Vikings outfield will be led by senior center fielder Makinlee Sellevold, who hit.322 with 5 home runs and 20 RBIs. Sellevold is a three-time all-conference selection and is known for her speed and defensive skills.
Newcomers
The Vikings have added several talented newcomers to their roster, including freshman pitcher Ashley Runge. Runge was a standout player at Snohomish High School, where she led her team to a state championship in 2022.
In the infield, the Vikings have added freshman second baseman Katelyn Olson, who was a three-time all-league selection at Cedarcrest High School.
Catching
The Vikings have also added freshman catcher Jaylee Peterson, who was a two-time all-league selection at Marysville-Pilchuck High School. Peterson is known for her strong defensive skills and her ability to handle the pitching staff.
Schedule
The Vikings open their season on February 3rd against Concordia University in Irvine, California. They will play a total of 10 non-conference games before starting GNAC play on February 17th against Simon Fraser University.
The Vikings will play a total of 40 regular-season games, including 20 GNAC games. They will also participate in the GNAC Tournament on May 5-6 in Billings, Montana.
Championship Expectations
The Vikings are expected to contend for the GNAC championship and make a deep run in the NCAA tournament. With a strong returning core and talented newcomers, the Vikings have the potential to make a championship run.
Final Thoughts
The Western Washington University softball team is poised to have another successful season. With a strong returning core and talented newcomers, the Vikings have the potential to make a deep run in the NCAA tournament. Led by Head Coach Amy Suiter, the Vikings will be a force to be reckoned with in the GNAC.
We invite you to follow the Vikings throughout the season and cheer them on as they strive for another championship.
Who is the head coach of the Western Washington University softball team?
+The head coach of the Western Washington University softball team is Amy Suiter.
What conference does the Western Washington University softball team play in?
+The Western Washington University softball team plays in the Great Northwest Athletic Conference (GNAC).
What is the Western Washington University softball team's home stadium?
+The Western Washington University softball team's home stadium is the Viking Field.