Warm weather.
Yeah, I figured that would get your attention. Spring sports are almost here.
The sun comes out, everyone gets a tan, and baseballs, lacrosse balls, tennis balls, golf balls and softballs will be spraying the blue sky. It's the most wonderful time of the year.
As a member of the baseball team for my final year, there are plenty of things I am going to miss.
The smell of freshly-cut grass is still one of my favorite smells in the world.
Taking batting practice outside after being stuck in the Clements Center for weeks is a luxury. The same can be said by the softball and tennis teams.
As the spring season approaches, every spring athlete has unique and special things we all look forward to. Especially for the seniors.
If you haven't been to a spring sports game here at Otterbein, I encourage you to go. This is the first year Otterbein has a lacrosse team, whose first game is scheduled for March 6.
Mike Spatafore, a sophomore defenseman from New Jersey, said, "I'm looking forward to the first game, the smell of the field and the sounds of the game I've had to wait an entire year to play. I just missed the game."
The women's tennis team, which had a successful season last year going 7-2 in the OAC, hold high expectations for themselves this season.
As an experienced team loaded with five seniors, anything other than first place would be considered a disappointment.
"I'm excited for working toward our goal of being OAC champs," said junior public relations major Kylie Hammons.
The team is already off to a hot start, dominating Wooster in their first match. They have a home match Feb. 27 against Ashland at 11 a.m.
The women's golf team is also looking to build off of last season's success. They made it to the national championship and expect to do the same this year, led by seniors Kelly Butler and Elizabeth DeRoy.
"I'm looking forward to my senior year and another national championship appearance. We lost two good players, but I think we still have a good chance to do well," said Butler.
The team will travel to Georgia to compete in the Jekyll Island Invitational, starting March 19.
Another team looking to earn respect is the softball team. Under second-year coach Christine Steines, the team looks to put together a winning season with a very young but hard-working squad.
The lone senior on the team, public relations major Brooke Stull, wants to add to the four wins she earned on the mound last season.
"First, I'm excited to see how much all of our hard work in the offseason will pay off. Second, we're young and athletic, and I expect us to succeed this season. I'm really excited."
The baseball team looks to put together their eighth winning season in nine seasons. With a large mix of experienced seniors coupled with some young talent, the sky is the limit as to how far we can make it.
With nearly 50 men on the roster, anyone is capable of stepping in and delivering a winning effort.
The first game is scheduled for March 6 against Calvin, who will make the trek from Michigan.
Expectations are as high as ever here at Otterbein for this spring. There will be opportunities to show your support, whether it be for a men's or women's team. So soak up the sun and cheer. t&c;
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