The West softball team has had their challenges this year, but said they are optimistic about the rest of the season. The team, consisting of primarily upperclassman, is full of depth and potential, according to head coach Dana Braznell. Senior Claire Johnson has been batting .326, she has 15 hits, eleven RBIs (runs batted in) and one home run.

“As a catcher, Claire controls the game,” Braznell said. “One thing I’ve noticed this season is she will always get down and block. She never gets mentally defeated by the game.”

Teammates said they have noticed Johnson taking a leadership role as a senior, and being a key part of the team.

“She’s a good role model for all of us, not just the underclassmen,” junior Emilee Mosso said. “She motivates us all to perform well. She’s helped us hold ourselves accountable.”

Johnson worked during the offseason to build her strength, and said that was one thing that she would recommend to anyone looking to better their game.

“Doing the workouts before the season started and hitting throughout the year has helped,” Johnson said. “We always work hard at practice; we always motivate each other.”

The Lady Falcons are 6-13 (4-9), and their next game is Friday, April 26, against Tuscola.

By: Wyatt Hughes, Sports Editor