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<DOCID>Laker_Softball.doc.txt</DOCID>
<AUTHOR>Erika Dykstra</AUTHOR>
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In 1974 Lake State Softball was the first program of any college and high school in the Upper Peninsula.  A closely knit team of sixteen women, three of which are seniors, represent the blue and gold.  Graduating this year is Captain Erin Retherford, pitcher Lisa Dahm, and catcher Ashley Yarrington.  I had the opportunity to talk to head softball coach, Don Myers, about the team and what is planned for the upcoming season.

The Location of Lake State is one of the greatest disadvantages the softball team has; the nearest school is about 250 miles away.  Despite the long drive in a 25 passenger van, the team has been able to take this time and develop a strong team bond as well as use the time to study.  With an average 3.0 gpa, the team takes their academics very seriously.  Lake State is the only college in which students are allowed to compete in intercollegiate athletics and major in nursing.  Lake State Softball has graduated nursing majors who are not only great ball players, but have graduated at the top of their class.  Lake State Softball also has forensic chemistry, business, education and athletic training students to name a few represented on the team.

The weather in the Sault is not always cooperative with the softball teams needs.  Because of the long and harsh winters, practices cannot be held outdoors. Instead they are held on the rubberized floor of the SAC.  Lake State actually has one of the better indoor practice sites, especially when there are three feet of snow outside and its 70 degrees inside. Since winter seems to last forever in the Sault, the first home game will not be until April 14.  This year womens softball will have a total of 12 home games (6 double headers).

The Laker Softball team has a saying of BFT, many wonder just exactly what that means.  It explains what Laker Softball is, One Belief, One Focus, One Team.  Another thing that is truly original to the team is their lunch box.  A simple, black lunch box with their names is carried to every game filled with gum and candy.  After the game is complete the lunch box is packed up, refilled, and waiting for the next game.  The lunch box was described as who they are, they bring it to work, they do what they have to do, then pack it up and bring it home.

If youre wondering how you can help support the womens softball team, they sell raffle tickets at home hockey games for a golf cart every year.  Tickets are $5 each or 3 for $10.  Also, on the 24th of February they will host the annual Take Me out to the Ball Game where hot dogs, chips and much more will be cooked and served by the softball team for no charge, though donations are accepted.

All students are encouraged to attend and give the softball team their home-field advantage.



 



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