Athleticism likely to overcome inexperience

With last season being wiped out due to coronavirus restrictions set by the governor, the Vikings only return two players with varsity experience from the 2019 season, senior catcher Abby Hennen and second baseman Audra Buysse.
"We had a great group of seniors last year that didn't get to step on the field," said coach Heidi Boerboom. "But we have athletic girls who can play many positions this year. We will be trying different things until we find the best fit."
Canby/Minneota's softball team got off to a late start due to the girls basketball team winning the Class A state championship. The Vikings have 18 girls out for softball in grades 9-12 and 23 out in seventh and eighth grade.
"I am so happy to see so many girls out," Boerboom noted.
The Vikings have seven players who have seen some time on the varsity, but only Hennen and Buysse saw significant playing time in 2019.
"This year's team is comprised of so many new players from two years ago, so I just want to see improvement from one game to the next in all aspects of the game," Boerboom said.
Hennen, one of the area's best catchers, is also to expected to see some time playing at shortstop. Buysse will again play second base.
Expected to see some time in the pitching circle this season are juniors Ava Larson and McKenzie Tolk, and freshman Faith Myhre.
"I expect great things from this group," Boerboom remarked. "Some of our team will be coming off a state championship in basketball. I hope to keep that energy and enthusiasm alive in our sport, too."