Farwell softball team putting in the work

By BEN MURPHY

Cleaver Sports Writer

Some hard work usually leads to good things on the softball field. At least, that’s the plan for Farwell, as they get their 2026 softball season underway.

“This is team that works so well together,” first year head coach Emily Lauer said. “If they can keep the same momentum going through the season, we should have some pretty great games to watch.”

Lauer is in her first season as varsity head coach, but she is already identifying what her team needs to do in order to have a successful year.

“Trust, communication and confidence,” she said. “The girls need to trust each other, communicate well and have confidence in their abilities. Our heavy hitters will need to step up when we need some runs. Thank goodness we have a few heavy hitters.”

Returning to the team will be seniors Karleigh Ames (centerfield, shortstop), Allena Wunderlich (shortstop, utility), Anna Vanbuskirk (pitcher, third base, first base), Evie Bell (second base, pitcher), Chloe Miller (catcher, outfield) and Jacey Stover (catcher, outfield).

New to the team will be senior Ella Norbury (first base) sophomores Alaina Slocum (pitcher, third base), Emma Barnett (utility) and Mya Yarhouse (catcher, outfield).

 “I’d like all of my seniors to be leaders when their time comes,” Lauer said. “With this many seniors they should know how to lead each other. We’ve got Karleigh Ames playing centerfield and she’s my main voice in the outfield. My catcher Chloe Miller, who calls an excellent game for our pitchers and has always been the voice of reason. Allena Wunderlich, our shortstop, who is also a strong voice on the team. Overall, we have a team full of leaders right now and I’ll just need them to trust each other and have each other’s back like they have their whole lives.”

The coach added that she is being helped by her son Truett Lauer, and he has a great impact on the program as well.

“The support and time Truett puts in with me is special,” Lauer said. “He’s been right here with me at every practice and every game. The success and well-being of the girls are just as important to him. It’s like he’s got big sisters every year. He helps with practice, warm up’s and we talk strategy as well. No way I could’ve done all of this without his love and support. Thank you, son.”

Farwell swept Merrill before spring break and they’ll return to action on Friday at Breckenridge, they head to Bullock Creek on Tuesday, and they will host St. Louis on Thursday, April 16.

“I think we have a pretty good chance in our conference this year,” Lauer said. “If our girls play at the top of their game I think we have a good chance at a great season. (We want to) work out some kinks, gain confidence in their abilities and just learn from mistakes but don’t be afraid to make them.”