In high school sports, unexpected challenges can test the strength and resilience of a team. This season, the Millard South softball team faced such a test when one of their pitchers, Morgan Timmins, suffered an injury this summer. Despite the setback, the team had shown incredible spirit and resilience this season, fighting for every win and giving it their all. “Some years teams have to deal with more adversity than others, and I think if anyone really looked back at all the things that mounted up as adversity for us, one could find a ton of success,” Coach Steve Kerkman said. “I’m really proud of that.“
This season has been particularly tough for the team, as they have encountered numerous adversities. The injuries among pitchers have forced coaches and players to rethink and adjust their strategies.
“During the first weekend for example, either due to season-ending injuries or illness, we were down SIX pitchers across our three teams, As a team and a program, you really don’t have a choice other than to put your best foot forward,” Kerkman said.
Morgan Timmins has been on the varsity softball team since her freshman year, helping and guiding the team to wins since. But during one of her basketball games in late July, she fully tore her ACL and partially tore her MCL and meniscus. Having a big surgery to help heal her ACL, forced her to sit out the whole season this year.
“It’s hard to not play and to not be able to help your teammate out,” Timmins said.
Timmins’ injury affected the team and the other pitchers in the Patriot softball program. The players and coaches had to adjust quickly to these changes. Many players had to step up and take responsibility, more than they would have had to if she hadn’t been injured. One of these players included Makenzi McCoy. She as well as Timmins has been on varsity since her freshman year. As the season progressed, the pressure on her teammates, especially on players like Makenzi McCoy, became evident. The team had to navigate these new dynamics and adjust to the increased demands placed on them.
“It’s hard for Kenzi to pitch the majority of the games, and it’s hard watching the team struggle,” Timmins said.
Throughout the season, Makenzi stepped up and showed up for the team and the games she pitched in. With Morgan sidelined by an injury, Kenzi was placed in the demanding role of taking on the bulk of the pitching duties for the high school team. Initially, she embraced the challenge, eager to prove her skills and dedication. However, as the season progressed, the physical toll began to mount. Causing Kenzi too, to get injured from the constant pitching.
“Being the main pitcher is hard, I’m currently injured in 3 different spots: my elbow, hip, and toe,” McCoy said.
Despite these challenges, McCoy continued to pitch until the end of their season. Her experience highlighted the importance of teamwork and the need for balance in sports. These challenges made the team closer, by having to work together and support each other more than ever.
“Even though I’m hurt I have to push through it and be there for my team. The team always has my back and supports me,” McCoy said.
As the school year began, the senior athletes looked forward to their final season. For the seniors; Emorie Swanson, Bailey Owen, Teagan Noelle, Claire Braun, Rylee James, Marley Balkovec, and Bianca Calabretto, their final year was a rollercoaster of emotions. They have spent countless hours practicing, playing games, and building strong bonds with their teammates.
“I’m sad about this being my final year because I’ve made lots of friendships and it’s been my life for the last four years” said by senior catcher Teagan Noelle
On Oct. 10 the Patriots went into their final game in districts with a loss. Despite the loss, the game held special significance for the senior players. It was their last opportunity to wear the Patriots’ jersey and to play on the field with their friends one last time. They cherished every moment, from the pre-game rituals to stepping on the field as a patriot for the final time. For the seniors this season was about more than just winning—it was about leaving a legacy and celebrating the bonds formed with teammates. As they walked off the field one last time, the seniors left with memories that would last a lifetime and lessons that would shape their futures.
“It didn’t end the way we all wished it would but I feel good walking away from all the memories and accomplishments throughout the years and all the girls that made the seasons the best times,” senior Emorie Swanson said.
These seniors have been through many ups and downs together, but they will leave a lasting impact on the patriot softball program.
“Every year is different and special and each senior class creates a legacy that leads a lasting imprint on the program and on the school,” Coach Kerkman said.
As the season comes to a close, the Millard South softball team ends with a record of 10-23. In the face of adversity, the Millard South softball team exemplified resilience and unity. Despite injuries to key players like Morgan Timmins and the challenges Makenzi McCoy and the other pitchers faced, the team stood strong, supporting one another through a tough season.
Their journey highlighted the importance of teamwork and determination, leaving a lasting legacy on the program. As the seniors move on, they carry forward the lessons of perseverance and the bonds that made their high school experience unforgettable.
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