After a challenging 2024 season, the Dawson-Boyd Blackjacks softball team is turning the page with a clear focus on the future. With a core of young players now seasoned by experience, the team is building towards a more competitive 2026 campaign.

Head coach Nick Gruwell, entering his second year at the helm, is optimistic. Last season's 1-16 record, including a 1-12 mark in the tough Camden Conference, was a learning experience for a roster heavy on youth. "This season is going to go better than last year," Gruwell stated. "We'll be pretty competitive."

The foundation for that optimism lies in player development and returning talent. While the team graduated a key leader in All-Camden selection Natyah Ritter, the majority of the starting lineup is back. The pitching staff, a focal point for growth, returns juniors Shay Bothun and Kadyn Perkins, who gained invaluable innings last spring. "They've put in time," Gruwell noted of his hurlers.

Experience now blends with promising youth across the diamond. Senior catcher Macy Moen provides stability behind the plate. A large junior class, including infielders Rylin Viessman and Alivia Estling, alongside first baseman Lauren Lee, is expected to take a step forward. Sophomore Katelyn Gruwell returns to anchor third base.

Perhaps most exciting for the long-term outlook is the emergence of young talent like eighth-grader Ragan Viessman, whom Coach Gruwell highlighted as the team's "up-and-coming catcher." This blend of seasoned juniors and promising underclassmen signals a program building sustainably. With assistant coach Alisha Schindler alongside him, Gruwell is guiding a group ready to translate last year's hard lessons into this season's progress.