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Health & Fitness

Hard-working 'Clones ready for softball action

The 2013 Cyclones softball team has hammered out workouts since fall to prepare for the spring season; and they're ready to roll.

It’s been a long winter for the Cyclones, one where the softball team pounded out workouts and indoor practices to prepare the 2013 squad for game time.

After a 20-win season in 2012, the Cyclones lost All-Region player Theresa Urchell (Evergreen Park) and big hitter Stephanie Ruvalcaba (Argo), both sophomores, but are happy with the return of All-NJCAA Region IV and All-Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference player, Samantha Staisiunas (Andrew), as well as All-Conference players Emily Kurek (Mount Assisi) and Danielle Stark (Stagg). Kristin Renken (Richards) and Courtney Wheaton (Illiana Christian) also return to the Cyclones, hoping to set the team on a successful course this year. “I’m happy with the returning players and expect good things from them. They worked hard last year, and I’m proud of them,” said head coach Mike Veen, in his third season at the helm. 

In the offseason Veen picked up some solid recruits to join the five veterans, including first basewoman Arianna “Ari” Bulthius (Mother McAuley), with her power at the plate; catcher and outfielder Melanie Gerhardt (Bremen), who played Cyclone volleyball in the fall; catcher/third basewoman Janay McGovern (Argo), a hard worker on the field; Amie Raynor (Sandburg), a versatile player who has travel softball experience; outfielder Jessica Rivera (Sandburg); and shortstop Jenny Vanek (Mother McAuley).

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With such a small roster, the Cyclones have to stay healthy and many have to play multiple positions, not unlike what they did last season. “Injuries have hurt us in the past, so strength training should help negate that. We can’t afford injuries this season,” Veen said. “A lot of teams have players who play one position. My team can play multiple. It’s a good thing to have. Amie [Raynor] can play anywhere on the field. Sam [Staisiunas] was thrown into pitching last season, and she’ll be much improved this year, but Emily [Kurek] will be our main pitcher.”

The Cyclones have a sound roster and are ready and anxious to start the season.

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“This team worked hard over the winter despite our small numbers, and we’ve improved since the fall. They want to win,” Veen said. “Teamwork is going to play a major part in the success of our season. We have a roster full of talented women, and if they can come together and play as one, there's nothing that can stop them."

Joining Veen again in the dugout is assistant coach and former Cyclone Natalie Wigginton.

The Cyclones open their season at home March 21 at 3 p.m. against the Aurora University JV squad.

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