Softball coach Lamont Hammonds and senior second baseman Olivia Mutis believe the team provides a positive and friendly environment.
Hammonds believes the relationship between the team is a crucial part of succeeding in the sport, and players agree.
“I really like hanging out with the people on the softball team, because otherwise I wouldn’t really see them or talk to them. So it’s nice to get different perspectives of the school,” Mutis said.
Hammonds believes the maturity of the players is the most significant growth he has seen in the team. He appreciates watching older teammates push the younger teammates.
“When I started out here, I was very shy and scared. I had some friends on the team who were the leaders to me,” Mutis said, “Whenever I would need help grasping a concept in softball I would ask them, which was really nice. One of the seniors during my sophomore year gave me her mask to play in the infield, and I still have that; it’s still the mask that I use. Now, I pass on the knowledge to the younger players.”
Beyond the wins and losses, the team spirit shines through in moments like their annual senior night.
“One of the things that makes me proud is watching how the girls make baskets and balloons and just show their love for their fellow players. On the field is just watching them play, watching them going out and hustling and trying to do their best,” Hammonds said.
“They’re going to make mistakes, that’s part of the game, but they keep trying. And for a coach, that’s the biggest thing. If you’re trying, we’re happy,” Hammonds said.
Mutis shared that being on the team is time-consuming, hands-on, and integral to her life. However, she likes the competitive nature of the sport and enjoys the opportunity for exercise it provides. Coach Hammonds has a specific way of ensuring the team is eager to play.
“For me, the first thing is learning how every player is different, so you can’t coach everybody the same. I have to learn and watch what motivates a player, what makes a player want to play harder,” Hammonds said.
Hammonds believes that accountability, hustle, and ensuring every teammate wants to be a ball player are the most significant factors in keeping a well-rounded team.
“You watch, you coach, you see if they want to be coachable. You see if they’re just there because their friends are there. So it’s little things you watch for on our team. Most of the girls are great, and they want to be there,” Hammonds shared.
Mutis agrees that putting in effort is vital to the team’s success.
“Hard work pays off. You can’t just go out on the field and expect to be great just because you want to be great; you have to work for it,” Mutis said.
