The West Fork softball team last week saw a dream realized with its first ever appearance in the Class 2A state softball tournament in Fort Dodge. The Warhawks fell to eventual state champion Van Meter in the quarterfinals and Lisbon in consolation.
West Fork’s trip to state was the first since the Sheffield-Chapin Spartans went to state in 1987 and the Meservey-Thornton Lancers reached the event in 1986.
Junior pitcher Libby Trewin says the team united together behind the seniors in their run to state and after gaining experience the trek to return begins.
“I think it just showed how much we grew as a team, making it to the state tournament and making history this year,” says Trewin. “I want to thank them so much, truly they’ve paved the way. They’ve been here since eighth grade, and they really just showed if you stick to it, anything can happen. We never imagined that their senior year would end at the state tournament. It really sets us up for next year, thinking, this was our year to experience it, and next year, let’s do it even better.”
Freshman first baseman Brooke Rother says she is thankful for her teammates and fans’ support throughout the year.
“I have such a good team that is right behind me, always supporting me and always keeping me positive,” says Rother. “It works both ways, offense and defense it’s all about confidence and what you can show. I’m really thankful for everyone that came out and supported us all the time. On the losses and on the wins, they’re always there and cheering. I hope to keep seeing them every other year.”
Retiring 32 year Assistant Coach Mary Schulz says she is going to miss coaching and the Warhawks next season will have solid pieces returning and a young group ready to contribute.
“I’m just really proud to be part of this West Fork community and the SCMT community that I started with,” says Schulz. “I coached with some great people. I’m going to miss it, but I’m not too far away, so I know I’ll stick around. Sadie and Coach Jess, do a super job, they have great rapport with the girls and I know they’ll take this team far. We’ve got Libby still in the circle next year and some good strong fielders. We have a few spots to fill with our seniors that are leaving. It’s going to be tough, but we’ve got some nice young girls. Our JV girls only lost one game all year. We have some young girls coming up that I think will contribute next year.”
West Fork ended a memorable year at 19-9 overall.
