Pioneer head softball coach David Riesen said his ladies were coming off a banner year and looking to continue that trend for the 2021-22 season. 

“We were 30-10 last year and lost in the regional tournament,” Riesen said. “We are returning six starters, including the best battery I have had in 23 years in Katelyn Trumbley in the circle and Morgan Meyers behind the plate.” 

All of the talent in the world won’t help if it isn’t honed, and Riesen said that’s exactly what they’re doing at Pioneer; with some strategic planning to make sure things don’t get too hot. 

“We have had some outstanding early morning practices so far, which allows us to beat the heat,” he said. “We will get eight scrimmages in before our first game on August 9. Those scrimmages are allowing us to figure out what our best lineup will be.” 

Riesen said in his 23-year stint at Pioneer, he has seen the game of softball go through some pretty big changes, particularly from an offensive standpoint. 

“The game has become a lot more offensive since I started,” he said. “I think there are a few reasons for that. One is moving the rubber back to 43 feet, and another is I believe girls are getting better coaching on hitting at a younger age than they did in the past.” 

When it comes to any snags that might have held them up last year —covid related or otherwise— Riesen said his ladies were looking forward to the success of the new season. 

“For the most part we had little problems with covid,” he said. “We took our precautions and were pretty fortunate. I am hoping this season is similar for us. The experience factor is a big thing. We have four seniors now who have started since they were freshmen. We’re looking to have a strong season.”