Expectations are high for the Atlantic Trojan softball team as they are gearing up for what they believe will be another year in which they can make a deep run. The Trojans have been no strangers to success. Over the past five seasons Atlantic has appeared in three regional championships and a state semi-final. Head Coach Terry Hinzmann said despite it not always being about how far they go, they are always looking for results.

The winning culture stretches from top to bottom as Atlantic has been working hard over the spring. As senior McKenna Sonntag echoes what the Trojans eye year in and year out.

Although Atlantic did lose some key players to graduation, the Trojans will have a lot of continuity and opportunities for continued growth, especially on defense.

Part of that continuity is junior Zoey Kirchhoff. In addition to being a big part of the offense, she is also a part of the Trojans rotation on the mound. In addition to using her enjoyment of pitching to her benefit, it has also paid dividends in other parts of her game.

Another key player for the Trojans will be junior Lila Wiederstein. Along with Kirchhoff, Wiederstein led the Trojans at the plate last year. A season ago she finished with a remarkable .556 average, a 1.377 OPS and drove in 48 runs. Despite all her success her approach at the plate will remain simple.

It is well known in sports that some of the best teams are also the closest and as Kirchhoff states it is a value that plays a big part in this Trojan team.

Another sentiment echoed amongst the team is the excitement for the season. Sophomore Payton McLaren adds that even the smallest things have the team looking forward for what is to come.

Last year was the only season in the past five years that the Trojans have not made it to at least the regional championship. However, that is serving as nothing but motivation for this Atlantic group as they feel primed to make another deep run.