Cobras rewarded for strong offensive season

The Triton softball team had a solid season in 2016 as they were able to put up plenty of runs and earn the first playoff victory for the team since the 2010 season. As one would imagine, there were several players that helped the Cobras succeed this spring and they were honored this week at the team’s banquet.

“I really enjoyed coaching the girls this season,” Triton softball coach Laura Strandell said of her team. “I feel honored to be able to have worked with such a great group of young women.”

Outfielder Ella Blaisdell lead the way for the Cobras as she took home plenty of hardware for her performance. The senior earned All-HVL, All-Section and an honorable mention for the All-State team with a .524 average, 28 runs scored and 22 stolen bases. She also set a school record by recording 43 hits on the season.

 As she graduates, Triton will not only have to find a way to replace her production, but her leadership off the field.

“Ella was a great leader this year and had quality at-bats,” Strandell stated. “I think having quality at-bats, being mentally prepared for games and putting in 100 percent effort helped her be successful. She also has natural athleticism and knows her strengths.”

The Cobras had a second representative on the All-Conference team as catcher Allissa Hallaway was able to find her way onto the roster. The sophomore hit .348 with 18 RBI in 2016 and has plenty of room to improve as she assumes a leadership role next spring.

Along with Blaisdell and Hallaway’s honors, senior outfielder Kayla Dostal and senior third baseman Candi Utech were named All-HVL honorable mention on a team that had the benefit of a deep lineup. 

“The whole team contributed to our success this year in hitting,” Strandell explained. “The girls worked hard in practice this spring to improve their swings and have quality at-bats. Our