WATERTOWN, Wis. -- The 2024 Maranatha Softball Season had its fair share of peaks and valleys, as the team battled through a winless season to show signs of improvement. It was the final season for Coach Rob Thompson, who announced earlier this year that the 2024 would be his final season as head coach.

Newcomer Grace Strauch was a standout in her first season, as she led the team with a .226 batting average and a .396 slugging percentage. The freshman held down the shortstop position for most of the season and led the team in slugging (.396), recorded five doubles and two triples on the season. Ashley Nerat finished her third and final season, leading the squad with a .917 fielding percentage, primarily from first base.

SOUND BITE
"Our season is not anywhere near a failure [when] we continue to do the right things for the right reasons," Coach T said last week. "Our focus and primary purpose each day has always been to honor the Lord whether on the field or off the field, in how we act, react, and treat teammates, coaches, officials, and opponents with respect.

"In the realm of athletics, every year and every team we set out with different goals - some as individuals and some as a team - but always these three major things [are the focus]: to be competitive in games; to grow in our relationships with the Lord and with team members; and to honor Christ in how we play. And that's why, at the end of every practice and every game, we remember that it's not about any of us...it's all about Christ.

"God uniquely put this team together. It's been interesting to see how a group of young women could be an example of God's handiwork. I consider it a real privilege to coach these women in this, my final season. And what a fantastic way to finish my coaching career."

SCHEDULE | ROSTER | STATS 

AWARDS

Most Valuable Teammate: Kaili Swaffer, Bethany Searle
Most Improved Teammate: Brooke Sharpe, Dani Gaul
Defensive MVP: Ashley Nerat
Coach's Award: Bethany Searle

NCCAA Scholar-Athlete Awards: TBA

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