As usual, the Westside girls softball team is gearing up for another great season.

As the season starts, students are gained and last year’s graduating seniors (Brittney Loney and Lauren Sandoval) have been lost. These two key players graduated but the team has faith in their remaining members as well as those new to the team.

Preparing for the season has been an important part of the softball program. The team has been working to stay in shape during the off-season. Some girls took part in the UNO team camp, or participated in the summer program at the high school.

“The junior class is numbers wise, our largest class on the team,” head varsity softball coach Kevin Dunn said. “Most of them are at a varsity level for their third year now. I expect our junior class to be our main state group.”

The players and coach are expecting the biggest difference over the season to be the maturity level.

“They’re maturing as a team and I’m excited to see this as the season progresses,” Dunn said.

Once again, returning players will be a vital part of the team, especially to get where they want to be in the end.

“I’m excited to be a part of the team and bond with all of the girls,” junior Camille Jacob said. “As well as working hard to win this season.”

As far as progressing within tournaments, the team’s main goal is very attainable: qualify for the state tournament.

“Try to get better each and every day, that’s always our main goal,” Dunn said.

The team will begin their road to their goals as they take on Marian Aug. 20 at Hillside field.