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Humboldt area softball players recently showcased their skills at the Western Canadian Championships in Abbotsford, British Columbia, with impressive performances and valuable experiences both on and off the field.
Ava Poggemiller, 13, who serves as captain of her team, shared her excitement about the tournament.
“We had a really fun time. The first night our team had a practice, which definitely brought the nerves down. We were very excited to play at such a high level and get to compete with such good teams,” she said. Reflecting on her leadership role, Ava added, “Being captain of my team was a great honor and responsibility because I tried to lead by example and bring everyone up when they’re down.”
This was Ava’s first year playing on her U13 team, but she has been involved in softball since age four.
“I love meeting new people and the joy that it brings me playing, especially when I make big accomplishments. I hit my first over-the-fence home run this season, actually, I got two,” she said. Ava emphasized the social benefits of the sport for peers: “Sports are a great way to meet new people… Even when we got down in games, we did a good job of staying up and cheering each other on. It’s really motivating.”
The team had an outstanding season, finishing with 41 wins and four losses, winning their first four tournaments, and capturing provincials.
“At the start of the year, we wrote down our goals and most of us had said going to Westerns and winning provincials, and it was a great experience to accomplish that,” Ava said. Looking ahead, she plans to continue playing winter ball and join the Wolverines next summer.
Tori Pudrycki, also 13, played primarily shortstop and occasionally pitched.
Tori described her love for the sport, saying, “I just love it. Meeting new people and making new friendships is my favorite thing about playing.” She played seven games in Abbotsford, noting, “It’s really nice to play in a new place than usual,” and recalled exchanging pins with other teams as a fun tradition.
Tori credited her coaches, saying, “Thank you Kevin for coaching me and Ben.”
Jocelyn Nordick, 12, who plays second base, pitcher, and outfield, also competed at the Westerns with the Melfort Spirit.
Jocelyn highlighted the teamwork involved in her positions and how covering for a stolen base works: “Well, you can see when they lead off and then I cover the bag and shortstop goes to get the throw,” she explained.
Jocelyn’s first year with this team involved a busy schedule, playing seven games over four days in hot and sometimes humid conditions.
She encouraged other young athletes to get involved: “It’s a really fun sport, and you get to meet lots of new people and friends.”
All three players emphasized the importance of teamwork, friendship, and the joy of competing at high levels, with experiences they hope to carry into future seasons.