A storied history of champions, All Americans and conference titles, a veteran and well respected coach and a consistent spot on top the Iowa Intercollegiate Athletic Conference year after year; time to continue tradition as Simpson softball begins their journey this week in Michigan.

Head coach Henry Christowski and his team of talented and determined assistant coaches look to continue their yearly success within the IIAC. After finishing last year 29 15 and 10 6 in the IIAC, the Storm will look to keep building on success and will turn to a seasoned group of seniors for leadership and guidance.

Placing third was a great accomplishment, but the team feels as if they can improve and take home the conference title this season. “I really believe this team has the ability to make it to nationals this year,” senior Leslie Downing said.“First things first though, we have to do well in conference and regional play, so we can’t overlook succeeding in those areas.”

Injuries hindered the team early in the season and throughout the entire year. It forced younger and less experienced players to step up and contribute immensely to the team’s progress.

“We have a lot of talented players who can play different roles for the team,” Downing said.

The ladies will be tested early as the head to Marquette, Michigan tomorrow for the Finlandia Dome Tournament. Winning this tournament, or even doing well, will earn the team substantial regional points for post season play. The ladies will be competing against six other teams, all looking for post season points and early season momentum. The Storm will be heading to Kissimmee, Florida over spring break, where they will get a chance to showcase their talents against the ranks of Division I and II schools.With seasoned vets like senior ace Kacee Arey leading the charge, the ladies are hoping to jump out to fast start and keep their foot on the pedal.

“Last year I would say we didn’t go as far as we had hoped,” Arey said. “We definitely have some unfinished business to take care of this season.”

Anything less than a conference title would be a disappointing year, according to the players, who see no reason to settle for anything less.

“There is always that pressure of performing your best at every practice, and every game,” junior Hillary Harmon said.

Simpson will hit the field against archrival Central on Wed., April 3 to begin conference play.

“I think our team has a lot of flexibility and quality ball players all around,” Arey said. “I see our team doing great things here in the near future.”