GlenOak’s softball team has been hitting the fields to create a new name for themselves in the Federal League.

After gaining an entirely new coaching staff before the 2022 season, the team has been picking up the pace and recreating the atmosphere of the team. 

​​The head coach of the program Lauren Bausch has been working for the past two seasons to create a family environment by teaching the girls about the culture of mudita.

“I introduced the concept of mudita, which stresses the importance of working for the overall good of the program and celebrating the success of other members of the team as a whole, rather than focusing on one’s own accomplishments,” Bausch said.

In the 2023 season, there are three seniors leading the team through all of the ups and downs. Paige Lucas has been a member of the team for all four years and has watched the team’s culture change.

“Everyone is working harder and it is more of a team than ever,” Lucas said. “Working towards a common goal and working to get better everyday.”

Another senior on the team Jena Wagner has spent the season improving her skills on the field. The best moment of the season for Wagner was when she hit a grand slam against Cuyahoga Falls.

Not only has Wagner been working hard on the field, she has also made an impact on the underclassmen.

“When I was partnered with Jena during lifting, she would always motivate me to work hard and keep me going,” freshman Lalia Cindric said.

The lifting season is a critical time for the team because it creates bonds between the upcoming freshman and the previous members of the team.

“Jena is always positive towards me when I am up to bat and she is on deck, she gives me a boost of confidence,”sophomore Gianna Papaleo said.

Another senior is the starting varsity catcher Lillie Cindic has also helped lead the team throughout the year. Lillie has worked hard behind the plate protecting home from advancing runners. 

Lillie has helped the girls start playing more as a team. She has watched the team grow and be able to take on more challenges pulling out with wins. 

“I think we learned not to be okay with a loss but instead use it as motivation to win and prove ourselves the next game,” Lillie said.

The team has made great progress over the season. From hitting grand slams to lifting each other up, the softball team has hopes to take the Federal League in the coming years.