Crawfordsville softball is entering a new era. With that, CHS turns to first-year coach Mackenzi Landrum to lead the program. The biggest thing according to Landrum is first establishing a culture with the Athenians.
“Our biggest focus is culture. We are focusing on establishing a positive, hard working environment within the program,” Landrum said. “We want the girls to trust and rely on one another all while making each other better and building off of one another’s successes.”
Crawfordsville graduated two of their top three hitters last season in Laine Schlicher who hit .413 a season ago and Olivia Reed who batted .304. Bailey Crane returns for her senior season she batted .313 a year ago for CHS. Fellow senior Brooklyln Mills joins Crane as another top returner. Mills hit three home-runs a last year and drove in a team-high 14 RBI’s. Halle Elliott will be another senior and will be relied on for her defense in center field.
What has stood out in the first few weeks of practice and as the season gets underway for Landrum has been her team’s ability to stay together and all be focused on the goals that they’re trying to achieve.
“Our girls are very connected to one another. They are very close knit and aren’t afraid to push each other and hold their teammates accountable. This group is eager to learn. They are always asking questions and looking for ways to improve.”
All coaches have different ways of measuring success. For Landrum what goes into a successful season goes beyond what happens on the diamond.
“In my opinion, seeing growth would be considered a successful season. Growth being seen in all areas; personal growth, athletic growth, program growth and growth of culture. These young ladies are more than just softball players and if we can help them become the best version of themselves during and outside of softball, I would call that being successful.”
The Athenians open up the season on Thursday at home against Riverton Parke with weather permitting.
