Bellingham High’s Softball Program in Revival Mode

By KEN HAMWEY, 

Bulletin Sports Writer

When an athletic department decides to revive a team it discontinued for a season, it’s risky business. At Bellingham High, the varsity softball team, dormant for a year, came out of hibernation in the spring and had moderate success.

The girls finished 5-15, had a power ranking of 31 in Division 4 and qualified for the playoffs where they split a pair of games. Dissolving the varsity program for a year now seems like it was worth the risk. 

“It was necessary,’’ said Courtney Parker, who coached the jayvee team to a 10-6 record last year and now is at the varsity helm. “If we went forward with a team last year, there would have been only four varsity players — one senior and three sophomores. Any other players would have had no varsity experience. Because there was so much inexperience, a year off helped to sustain interest in the program, and it gave us time to gain maturity and improve the skill level.’’

Tourney play showed maturity and an elevated skill level. The girls rolled to a 13-1 victory over Upper Cape, then lost to second-seeded Tyngsboro, 14-1.

“We were focused against Upper Cape and played like a family,’’ Parker said. “It was a great team effort, one through nine. Jacobi Houston pitched a one-hitter and the girls played like they’ve got a good future. Tyngsboro had a stacked lineup, they hit for power and Kiley Hogan had great command of her pitches. Their players all compete in leagues and club softball.’’

The 33-year-old Parker was a star pitcher for the Blackhawks, a captain and a Tri Valley League all-star who receiveda partial scholarship to play from Merrimack College. Three shoulder surgeries, however, ended her collegiate career after her freshman season.

A native of Bellingham, Parker set common sense goals for her initial season. “We wanted our players to focus on being good teammates and to build team chemistry,’’ she said. “We also wanted the girls to improve their mechanics and skills so they could be competitive against the formidable teams on our schedule.’’

The revived edition of the Blackhawks strived to fulfill those goals.

“We had some strengths that enabled us to win games,’’ Parker noted. “Our defense was strong and will continue to improve. A solid defense helps players become students of the game. Our softball IQs were good, but still must get higher. We were athletic, and our pitching became more consistent and dependable as the season moved along. We’ll continue to keep working on team chemistry.’’

Parker’s squad, although still very young, displayed lots of grit. “A relentless work ethic was a major plus for us,’’ she emphasized.

Three sophomores and three freshmen formed the nucleus. The sophs — Hayley Higgins (centerfielder), Jacobi Houston (pitcher) and Ashley Kamin (infielder/catcher) — became the captains and displayed effective leadership traits.

“They led by example and by being communicative,’’ Parker said. “They helped the younger players, were supportive and led at their positions.’’

Each captain had at least one positive statistic. Higgins had an on-base percentage of .298 and had 17 hits; Houston had an earned-run average of 3.43 and 72 strikeouts in 71 innings; and Kamin had a fielding percentage of .872.

“Hayley is fast, covers lots of ground and is quick,’’ Parker said. “A quality fielder, she can hit for power. Jacobi gets speed on her fastball, has an effective change-up, and her location is fine. A dynamic competitor, she has good command of her pitches and she’s still improving. Ashley is versatile, has good range and a strong arm. She hits for power is aggressive on the bases and has excellent instincts.’’

Three freshmen — Lilly Proler (catcher), Megan Skarin (left field) and Trista Corshia (pitcher, third base) — have the potential to be cornerstones of the team.

“Lilly is a leader on the field,’’ Parker noted. “She’s got a great work ethic, hits for power and is capable blocking the plate. Possessing a strong arm, she’s learning how to be a quarterback on the field. Megan is very fast and covers lots of ground. Always giving an all-out effort, she’s becoming a great competitor. Her hitting is improving (13 hits). Trista has a strong glove at third base and is a pitcher who throws hard.  She’s got good command of her fastball and also had 10 RBIs.’’

Parker has high praise for her assistant coaches — Devin Woodman and George Saliba. “Devin works with the outfielders and George deals with the infielders,’’ Parker said. “They’ve both been keys in what success we had. Devin connects with the players and pays close attention to details. George has lots of softball knowledge and his willingness to help is a plus.’’

On her philosophy, Parker said, “If the players strive to improve, reach their potential and enjoy their athletic journey, then willing will occur.” She hopes her players recognize their value, adding, “Overcoming adversity and being resilient are important lessons. Being good teammates and being accountable and responsible are also key lessons.’’

Despite having only 10 varsity players, Parker was pleased with the season.

“Early on I felt we had players with talent,’’ she offered. “The five regular season wins were huge, and the tourney experience was a plus. We can build on that. Our players have the potential for lots of success. 

“The future for the program will be bright and exciting,’’ she said, “but there’s plenty of work ahead that will require commitment and dedication.’’