By Ryan Deal ’16

Another year, another dominant season for the softball squad, as they have conquered all of their opponents in their path, surging to a 16-0 regular season record. On the back of stellar pitching from junior Jamie Schmier and a superb offense led by senior Nicole Stockinger, the team has managed to keep its Maryland-state record seventy-eight game winning streak alive throughout the season.

Along the way, the team has recorded some rather absurd victories including a 22-0 victory over Wootton, an 18-0 win over Einstein and a 20-0 win over Springbrook. Collectively, Sherwood has outscored their opponents 231-10 this season. It is victories such as these that illustrate why Sherwood was ranked by The Washington Post to be the top overall team in the state and by Xcellent 25 as the thirteenth-best team in the country.

On the field, the team has received a boost from their new starting pitcher, Jamie Schmier. Schmier, who replaced All-Met Maggie Dejter this season, has proven to be an ace on the diamond, hurling multiple shutouts. Her pitching will be needed for the postseason, as well. To best replicate her regular season success in the postseason, Schmier said that she just needs to, “stay focused, not freak out and throw my game.”

Offensively, the team will need production from all throughout the lineup. Towson commit Nicole Stockinger has been a major contributor this season, breaking the Maryland state record for home runs in a career with thirty-eight. Additional contributors will be junior first baseman Kelly Bouma, who has solidified the position, and infielder Julie Swarr, who is batting north of .500 this season.

Despite Sherwood’s relatively easy march through their regular season schedule, scoring wins in the postseason will provide a larger challenge for the three-time defending Maryland 4A State champions. For Coach Ashley Barber-Strunk, the best way for her team to remain focused through the postseason is to stay calm and play smart. “On any given day, anyone can beat anyone. We take one game at a time, and always play to the best of our ability,” said Barber-Strunk.

Among the strongest opponents Sherwood may face in the postseason, Severna Park may prove to be the toughest. Severna Park is currently ranked ninth in the state and is buoyed with an explosive offense. Eleanor Roosevelt, who has emerged undefeated through their first twelve games, could pose a significant threat as well. Other programs, such as C.H. Flowers and Clarksburg, have also made noise this season. Despite the presence of these worthy opponents however, there is no denying that when Barber-Strunk’s team plays to the best of their ability, there is virtually no stopping them.