News Summary

As the Durango High School softball team gears up for the 2024 season, they aim to improve upon last year’s disappointing record of 4-17. With new talent and returning players, Coach Sarah Clair is focused on enhancing both defensive and offensive skills. The upcoming season includes a mix of home and away games, and the team is determined to reclaim their position in the league, setting their sights on the playoffs. The excitement builds as they prepare for their first doubleheader against Basalt.

Durango High School Softball Team Gears Up for Exciting 2024 Season

In the picturesque city of Durango, anticipation is brewing for the upcoming softball season as the high school team looks to turn things around after a challenging 2023 campaign. Despite finishing last season with a disappointing 4-17 overall record, the Demons are setting their sights high this year with a goal to reach the playoffs and reclaim their position in the league.

Last Season’s Bumps and Bruises

Last season was a tough ride for the Durango Demons, who faced their fair share of struggles on the field, especially towards the end, losing eight out of their last ten games. The team is determined to flip the script this year, embarking on a journey that aims for improvement both in record and spirit. Coach Sarah Clair, now in her third year, is committed to enhancing the program’s performance and fostering a competitive environment.

New Faces and Familiar Talents

As the Demons prepare to kick off their season, they have held tryouts, and the turnout was impressive. A whopping 13 freshmen came out, marking the largest gathering in Coach Clair’s tenure. With enthusiasm running high, the team is set to field both a varsity and junior varsity squad this year, offering more opportunities for young talent to shine.

While the team lost crucial players to graduation, including the second-best hitter and third-best hitter from last season, there are bright spots on the horizon. Key returning players like sophomore pitcher Abigail Gordon and senior pitcher Jenna Glueck are looking to leverage their experience. Gordon, who played an important role last year, is showing marked improvement in both strength and confidence, while Glueck’s solid performance in games makes her a valuable asset to the team.

Strengthening the Defense

One of the primary focuses this season will be to enhance the defensive play that has been a challenge in recent years. The Demons had a tough time stopping the runs, allowing at least 11 runs in ten of their games last season, which often contributed to their losses. Coach Clair has emphasized the importance of refining defensive skills, implementing infield drills, and improving catch rates in the outfield. The team is eager to see how the new starters will adapt to their roles in key positions.

A Bright Spot in Hitting

Despite the setbacks in defense, last season’s hitting was a commendable aspect, and the Demons hope to build on that success. The arrival of new talent combined with the return of powerful hitters like junior Avery Clair, who led the team in batting average and RBIs last season, instills optimism. Avery is also keen on enhancing her defensive techniques, showcasing a commitment to her all-around game.

The Schedule Ahead

The season kicks off with a doubleheader against Basalt in Grand Junction this Saturday. Excitingly, out of their next 12 games, a majority will be home games, providing the team with a familiar environment to gain momentum. As they head towards the end of the season, the Demons will face a challenging stretch, playing eight out of their last ten games on the road.

League Outlook

As they step into the new season, the Demons are ready to face formidable opponents like Fruita Monument and Grand Junction Central, who are likely to compete for the top spots in the 5A/4A Southwestern League. With hopes to contend against Palisade and Montrose, Coach Clair remains cautiously optimistic. The team has diligently discussed their goal of achieving a winning record, and the energy generated during practice suggests they are ready to rise to the challenge.

In Conclusion

Overall, the Durango High School softball team is ready to write a new chapter in their story. The combination of enthusiastic newcomers, committed returning players, and a focused coaching staff is setting the stage for an unforgettable season. With every swing of the bat and every catch made, these young athletes are determined to show Durango what they’re made of.

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