by Molly Schecter ‘27

Last year, the girls’ varsity softball team clinched the 3A Maryland State championship with a thrilling 6-5 victory over Linganore. The game extended into extra innings, after junior pitcher Reagan Corb sealed the win by hitting a walk-off with two runners on base. Amazingly, Sherwood softball has won a total of eight state championships, including a recent 4A championship in 2022.

The team is dedicated this year to be their best and defend their state championship title. They got started pre-season by conducting team workouts prior to tryouts. The team worked hard in the weight room and outdoors to improve fitness and also welcome players for the season. “Like last year we’re striving to win states, and I think if we work hard enough it’s a fully achievable goal,” said Corb.
The Warriors have an abundance of talent, and their lineup remains similar to last year’s as they only lost one senior to graduation. They have also added freshman left-handed hitter Gabby Anderson, providing even more depth to the already strong lineup. The Warriors are currently 7-0 after beating Poolesville last Friday 10-0, and they have decimated the opposition, outscoring the other teams by a combined 89-7.

Coach Ashley Barber emphasizes that the team’s biggest strengths come through their team chemistry: knowing that they have each other’s backs no matter who or how they play. Furthermore, additional strength comes from players knowing their role on the team and striving to be the best in that role to help the team improve individually and together. Barber said a focus for the season is to improve incrementally.

Although a strong team, players recognize there are areas for improvement. Corb noted that while their defense is solid, there is still room for refinement. “As a team we need to work on being consistent at the plate and in the field so we can go into playoffs confidently.” Senior Shortstop Keira Schlutz added.
Despite the softball program’s legacy of success, the home field has more or less been just that: an unkept field in the far back of Sherwood’s grounds. Around the time of tryouts, the girls completed the annual set-up, including putting the fence up around the outfield. To maintain the field throughout the season, the girls rake daily, sweep the dugouts, and redraw foul lines.

All is finally changing as long-awaited construction of a softball field and facilities is nearing completion. The new facility will include bleachers for fans, a scoreboard, an irrigation system in the outfield, a permanent fence, and dugouts. The new field should be ready by the end of April, according to Barber. If that schedule holds up, the seniors on the team should get a chance to play two regular season home games, plus early-round playoff games, at the brand new facility.

“Hopefully it will be ready by senior night, and we look forward to getting to play on a more professional field,” commented senior outfielder Avery Anderson.

During the start to the season, Sherwood already has taken some revenge for losses last season. Damascus has been a rivalry and one of the team’s toughest regular-season competitors. Last year, Sherwood only lost two games, both times falling to Damascus, who had a star pitcher that has since graduated. This season, the Warriors beat the Hornets by a score of 11-1. Clarksburg poses a new threat this season with a strong sophomore pitcher, who likely will be on the mound when the Warriors face the Coyotes on April 28.

For a team used to competing for state championships each year, it would seem a challenge to not look ahead to the playoffs. However, the players seem to thrive on the buildup leading to a deep playoff run and possibly a title. “Everyone is used to playing under pressure and that is for sure going to help us when it comes to playoffs and some of our tougher games in the regular season,” said Schlutz.