By Sean Markland 

The Bellbrook softball team has been showing improvement over its non-league games as their season moves forward. After a tough start against some top teams in the Southwestern Buckeye League, the players have started to find their rhythm beating Waynesville 10-0 and West Carrollton 16-5.

One of the most noticeable aspects of this team is how quickly they are gaining experience. Most of the softball Eagles are underclassmen who have already stepped into important roles.

Sophomore Abigail Hebrank, who only played seven games with a recent injury, leads the SWBL with a 1.54 ERA, while sophomore Riley Burke and freshmen Tori Markland and Lauren Nicholson are all batting over .300.

“Our team is very young, and I can’t wait to grow with our group because in a couple years our team will be a top team in the area,” Markland said.

While the results have been mixed at times, the team has shown flashes of strong potential, including wins in close games against Valley View and Brookville who are tough opponents. Last season, the program finished with a 14-9 record, showing the foundation is there.

Offensively, the Lady Eagles are still developing consistency, but more players are beginning to contribute at the plate. Senior Mackenzie Walts, who is committed to Defiance College, leads the team in RBI and hits.