For many fans softball doesn’t start until spring, but for the players it is a whole different story. Off season training may begin as soon as the high school season is over, which is usually in June, according to IHSA.

This training is done in order to prepare for the next season, and includes a wide range of exercises.

“In the off season we do strength, conditioning, speed, agility, hitting, pitching, and basic practice with the whole team. Conditioning includes squats, push-ups, running, lunges, resistance bands, weights, crunches, and ab workouts. We have these things five to seven days a week,” sophomore Madison Baker said.

Training is also done to improve on skills specific to a position, according to freshman Elizabeth Graszer.

“I play second base and right field. For second base, I practice by getting a lot of grounders thrown to me. I also have someone hit the ball to the outfield so I can cover base. When I am in right field, I will practice pop ups. I also practice on getting lined up with my cut off,” said Graszer.

In addition to the intense practice schedule, players, like sophomore Samantha Albright, must also stay in shape by keeping a well balanced diet.

“All year round I don’t eat fast food, mainly McDonald’s. That food won’t benefit me at all when the season comes. I try to drink a lot of water and eat plenty of fruits and vegetables as well as all the other nutrients you need,” Albright said.

However, this can be tough so, many players like Baker only stick to the strict dietary guidelines on game day.

“I generally don’t change my diet because let’s be honest, I love food too much, but on game days I try to eat healthy food that will give me energy and not weigh me down. I drink smoothies, Gatorade/ energy drinks and sports drinks, eat salads, pasta, basic snacks and granola/ protein bars,” Baker said.

By practicing during the off season it trains the players to be prepared for the up and coming season.

“Practicing and training during the off season keeps you at the pace you were during the season. It keeps you mentally and physically trained for the season. It gives you a chance to get better and work on things you struggled with during the season,” Baker said.

Sophomore Cammi Krause also agrees with Baker about practicing off season.

“It keeps you in shape and it keeps you ready to play because you are not going to be as good if you fall out of practice,” Krause said.