As winter sports seasons come to a close, the world of athletics keeps going. Spring sports have begun their seasons and have high hopes for what is to come.
Baseball
Baseball tryouts occurred on March 2-3 after school. There have been changes to the coaching staff this year for the varsity baseball team. In years past, the team was coached by P.E. teachers TJ Nall and Vincent Walker. At the end of last season, Nall announced that he was stepping away from the coaching position to spend more time with his family and coach his own kids’ sports teams. After that, Walker followed. This year, the team is led by math teacher James Karas with two assistants.
This year, the varsity team consists of 18 players, including three underclassmen, which has been uncommon for WEGO baseball in years past. According to Karas, the team is looking forward to playing some of the strongest teams in the conference while focusing on mental toughness and resilience.
“We plan to be very aggressive offensively this season and plan to put a lot of pressure on other teams,” Karas said.
Softball
This year, IHSA moved up the start of the softball season. According to some players, the reason was a double-booking of the fields where the state championship is typically played. To avoid adding another week of games for the girls, IHSA began tryouts for softball on Feb. 23. With 12 players on the roster this year, the team is looking to foster teamwork and sportsmanship while aiming for a winning record. This season, the team is focused on developing team cohesion.
“[We want to focus on] playing for each other, and for the love of the game. Not for the record or the clout,” Dieter said.
According to Dieter, the team is looking forward to its home game against Wheaton North on March 30. Last season, the Wildcats lost to the Falcons 10-0.
Soccer
The varsity girls’ soccer team is a mix of veteran and young players this season. Five freshmen have been brought up to the varsity level, along with two other new players on the roster this year.
“This year, we have 7 new players, who we are working to adapt to our style of play. The decision-making, ability to be daring, push forward, and play total futbol,” Corrasco said.
The team is looking to build mental toughness, tactical understanding, and overall conditioning throughout the season. According to Corrasco, the team is also looking forward to playing in the conference tournament, with an opening game at home against Glenbard South. Last season, the Wildcats lost 2-0 to Glenbard South, but with that game under their belt, they know what they need to accomplish when playing them again this year.
Tennis
There are players from all grade levels who make up the tennis team this season. The boys are looking to improve fundamental skills and develop individual player talent. With tennis being a more individual-based sport, according to coach Tyler Hueber, the team is focusing on the mental side of the game, balancing aggressive play with consistency.
The boys’ opening match occurred on March 24 against Wheaton Academy. According to Hueber, every match this season excites him, but the one that stands out the most is against Glenbard South at home on April 23.
“It’s always a competitive, high-energy match and a great test for our guys,” Hueber said.
Badminton
With a 12-girl team this year, the girls’ varsity badminton team is focusing on developing individual player talent. This team consists of only juniors and seniors.
The team is also focusing on developing mental toughness and resilience.
“This year we are focusing on improving mental performance, so we are tough physically and mentally through all game play,” Brown said.
As always, the Wildcats are ready to give their all to represent the school and the community. With the beginning of the spring season, each team hopes to build on its strengths and compete at a high level throughout the year.
