(McKeesport, PA)
2022 Softball Season Preview
The Penn State Greater Allegheny Women's Softball team looks to build off a bounce-back 2021 campaign as the 2022 season approaches.
Following a 2020 season that was cancelled due to COVID-19, the PSUGA looked to rebuild and start fresh in a 2021 season filled with new faces, ever-changing pandemic guidelines, and many other challenges. Overcoming those obstacles, that team finished with a 9-15 record, two games out of making it to the playoffs.
Head Coach Danielle Kochka looks to continue growing the program and its success in the 2022 campaign: "We had a strong comeback year last year, and with the group of girls we have this season, I think we are well on our way to getting this team back to the PSUAC playoffs."
After graduating six seniors in 2021, the GA softball team looks to newcomers and freshmen to fill some vital spots in the lineup. Sophomore transfer Natalie Heltebran looks to be the new anchor in the outfield, bringing an experienced center fielder to the team. Freshman Sydney Creary and Sophomore Kennedy Pikula are also among the newcomers to watch, bringing power to the plate and consistency to the infield.
Paired with returning players like sophomore pitcher Maura Ryan and junior infielder Brianna O'Malley, Coach Kochka is confident that this GA softball team has what it takes to make a splash in the conference.
"Working with this team has been truly fun to watch. The new girls have brought a dynamic that has meshed well with the returners, and I think we have a special group for this season. Everyone is excited to show this conference what we can do," she said.
"On the outside, having a small team and losing around half of last year's players might look like this team won't accomplish much, but we embrace that underdog status. As coaches, we tell our players that we are small, but mighty. That mentality paired with our role as the underdog in the conference makes us dangerous, and I can't wait to see what this team can do on the field this season."
GA Softball is set to kick off their 2022 season on Saturday March 5th at St. Vincent College at 2pm and 4pm.
