Second year head varsity softball coach Ryan King goes above and beyond for his players.
First baseman Katie Kass (10) feels King has helped her become more confident as a player and more comfortable with softball.
“He always says ‘you got that’ on defense,” Kass said. “It doesn’t matter how hard it is or how challenging, he always wants us to make the play.”
Last year after an Alburnett tournament, the players sat on buckets and gathered around the back of the van to eat pizza that King bought them.
“It was good for our team bonding because we spent time together off the field,” Kass said. “We laughed the whole time.”
One of King’s greatest accomplishments last year was winning the first round playoff game.
“I was excited,” King said. “It was a close game, and we played well.”
King isn’t busy just during practice and games. He also puts in time behind the scenes.
“I make sure rosters are put together and check bus times for upcoming games,” King said. “I usually stop by the weight room and make sure girls are in there.”
Before and after every softball practice, King drags the field.
“It probably takes around ten minutes before and after every practice,” King said.
He also spends around 20 minutes working on a practice schedule. “Then, after a practice, I’ll meet with coaches to discuss practice and any changes we need to make,” King said.
King enjoys encouraging his players. “I like helping people achieve goals they want to achieve,” King said.
