The Oswego State softball team has finsihed its 2021 seaon and reflect on a hard-fought restricted schedule..
The Lakers currently stand at 8-14 overall and 5-11 in conference play, as they face SUNY Cortland and SUNY Fredonia Tuesday and Wednesday. Head coach Gabrielle Rivers knows what it will take to end a season off strongly and has been paying close attention to the qualities of her personnel on this Oswego State team. Several of her key players have shown out for the Lakers this season.
“Zoe Mennig and Madison Hoeflich have definitely stood out so far, our whole pitching staff as well.” Rivers said.
Along with Rivers the SUNYAC Softball Pitcher of the Week in April, Hoeflich, and the clean up hitter in the lineup, Mennig, have been key to the team on and off the field. Rivers also attributed her whole team’s growth throughout the season.
“It has been tough from not having a season to having a restricted season,” Rivers said. “mentally they have come together in the last few games.”
Keeping team chemistry consistent is a large focal point on what it takes to finish the season strong on the diamond. Sophomore pitcher Hoeflich has been one of those players keeping Oswego State close in its battles this season. Hoeflich in 62 innings pitched has notched 32 strikeouts, allowed 41 runs and has only let up two homeruns on the season. For Hoeflich it is all about strategy.
“Throwing strikes is the biggest thing,” Hoeflich said. “I take consideration of where the hitter is standing in the box so if they do swing, it will be somewhere in the field.”
Keeping Oswego State in contention throughout this season has been a big responsibility on the mound. Hoeflich, who has been integrated into the starting lineup for some games, keeps opposing batters guessing, as it is one of her better strengths as a player.
“It is all about hitting spots, I like to keep the batters guessing,” Hoeflich said. “All of us have a unique style of hitting, it is great to mix it up.”
Hitting is just as important as pitching as the innings change, one of Oswego State softball’s best hitters knows what it takes to consistently get runners on base. Mennig has a .423 batting average, 30 hits and 15 RBIs to show thus far for her outstanding junior campaign. As a contributor and leader for this team, Mennig holds herself to a high standard to execute at a high level.
“I try to keep myself calm,” Mennig said. “I put a lot of pressure on myself and when I do, I do not perform too well, but I just got to get the job done and do what my team needs me to do.’’
Mennig has done just that thus far and helps her team out as a catcher and a strong hitter on the team. One of her key points to closing the season off strong is to help runners move around the bases.
“Honestly just keep aiming for singles,” Mennig said. “I just aim to try to get on base and move runners as much as I can.”
Mennig’s development as a player has been truly remarkable as she and her team enter the offseason. She has seen her role increase more and more as the team grows.
“Past years I was not such a power hitter before, and I did not put too much pressure on myself,” Mennig said. “There was not much expected of me, but now I believe I can keep doing that.”
Players such as Hoeflich and Mennig are vital pieces of the team’s success going forward. Taking advantage of their newfound momentum will be crucial for their morale and confidence.
It has been a season of obstacle, growth and perseverance for this Oswego State team. Looking back on such a historic season, given what is going on in the world, it is important to look back on some of the best moments for the team. Rivers saw several moments that captivated this team’s energy and story.
“Our sweep at Buffalo State was one of the top ones,” Rivers said. “And coming back and taking game two against New Paltz was another.”
Will Rogers | The Oswegonian
