News Summary

As Concord High School anticipates the 2025 softball season, the team faces significant changes due to the graduation of key players. With a remarkable past season and a promising roster, Coach Duke Sawyer aims to build a cohesive unit filled with talent and determination. Despite the challenges, the enthusiasm around the team is palpable as they strive for success in the upcoming season and work on improving their offensive consistency.

Concord Softball Team Faces Transition After Key Graduates

In beautiful Concord, the high school softball team is undergoing a significant transformation as they prepare for the 2025 season. The team had a fantastic regular season in 2024, finishing with an impressive record of 15-3. However, their journey came to an abrupt halt in the preliminary round of the Division I playoffs when they were bested by No. 14 Portsmouth, despite being ranked No. 3 heading into the postseason.

The departure of key player Maddy Wachter, the Division I Pitcher of the Year, has created a gap in the lineup that the team is actively working to fill. With several top-performing athletes graduating, 2025 presents a new landscape for head coach Duke Sawyer, who is stepping into his 25th year with the program. It’s an exciting time for Sawyer as he navigates the challenges of adapting to a fresh lineup with many open positions.

Young Talent Stepping Up

Last season’s team saw the departure of five starters, including two Gatorade Players of the Year and three First Team All-State players. Despite these losses, the current squad is brimming with promise and energy. The blend of new and returning players aims to create a cohesive unit that can soar to new heights. Senior Tess Bolduc is stepping in to lead the infield and is already carving out her path to collegiate athletics by signing with the University of New England.

Not far behind her, senior Andie Moreira is set to head up the outfield, with plans to continue her softball journey at Roger Williams University. The pitching rotation is quite diverse, featuring seasoned senior Avery MacDonald alongside capable sophomores Natalee Rowell and Maggie Taylor. Freshmen Bailey Cassin and Ella Chrabolowski also add new energy to the mound, creating a mix of experience and youthful ingenuity.

Aiming for Offensive Consistency

The overarching goal for the early part of the season is improving offensive consistency and enhancing the team’s on-base percentage. This area will be crucial given the squad’s recent playoff disappointment. The players are not only motivated by the love of the game but also by the prospect of making a meaningful impression in a new season.

The team is fostering a competitive atmosphere as they strive for a top-eight finish, which is vital for securing a coveted home playoff game in the first round. It’s a fresh start for Concord softball, and the feeling of optimism is palpable among players and fans alike. Coach Sawyer has highlighted the importance of scoring runs and emphasized the integration of “small ball” strategies to enhance their chances of success this season.

While the road ahead may be challenging, the Concord softball team is embracing the transition with gusto. There’s a sense of determination and resolve to improve after last season’s sudden exit from the playoffs. With a wealth of budding talent ready to step onto the field, there is no shortage of excitement as the team gears up for what promises to be a thrilling 2025 season.

Conclusion

In Concord, the spirit of the game is alive and thriving, and the community is rallying around its team as they embark on a journey filled with hope, challenges, and the opportunity for redemption. With their eyes set on improvement, the Concord High School softball team is ready to take on whatever comes their way, aiming for nothing short of success in the upcoming season.

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