New Ulm Eagles softball has been pushing themselves to the next level to prepare for a season to remember. They are currently undefeated at 7-0, beating their rival Mankato East 4-3 the first time they played them this season. New Ulm has had intense practices to prepare them for whatever the section tournament holds.

From the start of the season, the Eagles said they wanted to be challenged. “We talked about how we wanted to be pushed like we never have before because we want to make it to the state tournament and prove everyone wrong,” center fielder Maddie Backer said.

The Eagles have had long and challenging practices to get them to reach their goals. “We are all very dedicated and push each other because we know what everyone’s capable of,” said Ramsey Hopp, pitcher. Many girls on the team will stay after practice to take extra reps. Many girls go to the cages to hit and then come to practice so they feel good when they leave practice that day.

Although the Eagles have drawn much attention to themselves this season with their record and how they play, it doesn’t phase them. “Even though we’re doing good, we don’t like to look at the records because we know we can do more,” said Berkley Wilfahrt, third basemen. The Eagles have recognized their accomplishments and how well their season is going but are fishing for more. Ramsey Hopp talked about how practices were intense since the first day of training because they wanted it that way. “The team is so close and connected already, and everyone gets along; it’s a connection you can’t break,” said Addi Hauge.

The Eagles start their practices with coach Kristi asking, “What do you want to work on today?” Almost every time they say infield outfield. The Eagles want to be spotless and ready for any ball hit to them. In every practice, someone learns something new, and it’s always a learning opportunity. Although the Eagles have been doing fine with hitting, if they suddenly fall into a slump, they have much they can take out of their back pockets. The Eagles know how to bunt, steal, fake, slap, and all of the above, and are ready for anything. They have a swift team and tend to steal on many teams. “We have been doing a lot of conditioning, and it can be tiring, but we all push each other to keep going,” said Backer.

The Eagles are doing great this season so far, but they still have a lot of season to go. Pop out to the games and show the softball team some support!