The softball season has come to a close, and the girls have much to be proud of. In the past few weeks they have overcome unfavorable climate, poor attendance and tough opponents.

In addition to the win, one of the most memorable nights of the season happened just days beforehand. This was the softball team’s senior night.

Senior Night took place on Tuesday, April 28. The team’s four seniors, Jessica Palak, Kristy Sturgess, Carly Schroeder and Alexis Shingleton were all honored on this night. The team faced Olsh on this night, and, after a long fight, ended up with a loss. Since it was Senior Night, that was the last home game played by the girls. However, an unprecedented event happened for the softball team’s season that night: one of the seniors, Alexis Shingleton, hit a home run.

“It was really exciting to think once I hit the ball, that it could possibly be my first home run ever. As I rounded first, almost to second, I watched the ball hit the ground on the other side of the fence. It was comforting to know that I reached my season goal and that I succeeded in doing so on my senior night,” Shingleton said.

Not only was this Alexis’ very first home run, but it was also the softball team’s first (and only) home run of the season. Looking back, the girls had an enjoyable season filled with memories. For the seniors on the team, they utilize the skills and comradeship that they gained from the sport for the rest of their lives.

“Softball taught me to have mental toughness and to move on from my mistakes. Although softball was not particularly my favorite sport, I truly enjoyed every second on the field with my team,” Jessica Palak stated.

The seniors have faith that the future of the team is in good hands with future players and Coach Bill Boggs.

“For the future [of the FHS softball team], I have high hopes that the girls will continue to improve and eventually get to win the section and go onto WPIAL playoffs. I believe that Bill Boggs is a good coach that knows what he is doing. I know he will continue to work hard to turn the program around for the upcoming freshman and hopefully continue to coach for many seasons to come,” Palak said.

The softball team has high hopes for the next season and the future of the FHS softball team in general. With conditioning in the winter to working with the middle school team, they plan on getting even more wins during their next season.