As the Westside Softball teams season just started and the loss of their 2024 Seniors, many girls have had to become leaders for the team. Junior catcher Hadley Hansen has been one of those girls to become a role model. She is a crucial part of the team as she dominates at the plate and behind it.
Hansen has had a huge impact on the Softball team since her freshman year. Coach Mike Leapley explains what Hansen brings to the team now that she is an upperclassman, and how she is a leader for younger girls on the team.
“To be a starting catcher, you have to lead. Behind the plate, you see the field. She always talks about where the play is or where the next play is going to be,” Leapley said. “What stands out to me is that she knows our pitchers down so well. She knows when to call timeout and settle them down or we got this.”
Softball makes up a huge part of Hansen’s life, including friendships and life lessons. Her coaches and teammates believe she contributes immensely. Hansen has also considered her role on the team.
“I believe that I lead best by example. Coming in and playing as a freshman gave me a unique perspective that allows me to help lead this team. My goal is to be the teammate people can look to in the big moments,” Hansen said.
After trailing by five runs during the Papillion La-Vista game, Hansen led the team with a three run homerun to get the team going. She currently leads the team with 8 hits and is a crucial part of the hitting lineup. Leapley explains how important her bat is in the lineup.
“Hadley in the lineup is huge, her presence alone is something. When she walks up to the plate, she looks over at me, and you can see her face like “Watch this,” Leapley said. “ I moved her from fourth hole to second spot in the lineup, and when pitchers see her, I’m sure they are intimated.”
Hitting is a huge part of softball and it takes determination to do what Hansen does to contribute for the team. Being prepared mentally and physically is a huge part of her approach and her mindset when she is up to bat.
“If I know I need to make an adjustment I’ll usually come up with a phrase or a one word que to focus. Something like “right side”, or “stay back.” Hansen said. “Usually when I am feeling my best I’ll sing a song in my head to stay relaxed.”
Hansen not only contributes to the team with her hitting but also her catching. She is the starting catcher for the team, which is also a significant part of the game. Sophomore pitcher Kalista Rich talks about how comfortable and confident she is when Hansen is behind the plate catching for her.
“When Hadley is behind the plate I am the most comfortable because I know that I can trust her. I know that If I end up throwing a wild pitch she will somehow still catch the ball,” Rich said. “I know that she will always do things with the intent of a good outcome, like pitch calling.”
Hansen has goals for the team itself but also goals for herself. She carries the team but also has to work for herself to support the team.
“Some of my personal goals involve keeping consistency with my hitting and to limit extra bases for other teams by being the best I can be on defense.” Hansen said.
Coach Leapley explains his goals for Hansen for this season. But he also sees a bright future for her.
“I think the season will go super for Hadley, she puts in so much work and it’s incredible to see.” Leapley said. “I know she is brilliant on the field and off. I see her going to an ivy league school, playing softball, and being a doctor or something like that. I do know that we both dream for her to play for the Iowa Hawkeyes, and I know that is possible.”
Hansen also plans to play in college and she has goals for softball, but also academically. She explains what she wants to do in her future for both.
“After high school I plan on playing softball in college as well as studying medicine. As passionate as I am about softball, I value academics more.” Hansen said “Softball provides a sanction for me to challenge myself while also taking a break from the real world a couple hours a day.”
As a leader on the team there are team goals that she wants the team to reach for. Hansen explains her team expectations that are set for the season.
“Obviously, I am hoping for the best. We have started the season with two unfortunate losses but I am hopeful that things will turn around and I am seeing more and more progress everyday at practice.” Hansen said. “Our big team goal is to once again get to state again this year, and find ourselves on top.”
Support from coaches builds their team up and is a special part of westside softball. Hansen has specific things that make the team a great place to be.
“My favorite aspect of Westside softball is the sense of community. I have forged lifelong friendships with my teammates and consider them family. These girls lift you up on your bad days and keep you going on your good days.” Hansen said.
Catch Hansen and the team were in action at the Gretna Invite on Friday Aug.30 and Saturday Sept.1.
