AUDIO: Manawa Softball Preview Spotlight

The Manawa High School Softball Spotlight is sponsored by Lorge Plumbing.

Click below to hear the Preview.

After finishing just a game behind conference champion Iola last season, the Manawa Wolves softball team returns in 2025 with high hopes and an experienced core ready to compete.

Head Coach Bob Pethke is optimistic about the group he has this year, noting that nearly the entire roster is back, with the only major losses being the two corner outfielders.

“We’ve got almost everybody back,” Pethke said. “We’ve got some sophomores stepping in to fill those outfield spots, and once we can get outside and practice more consistently, I think we’ll see improvement there. But otherwise, the infield’s intact.”

At the heart of that returning group is pitcher Olivia Zielke, who will once again take the mound as the team’s ace. Senior Kelsey Behnke is also ready to step in as a solid No. 2 option when needed, giving the Wolves stability in the circle.

With a strong returning cast and the memory of last season’s close finish fueling them, expectations are naturally high in Manawa. Still, Coach Pethke is keeping the team focused on what lies directly ahead.

“We’re just working one game at a time,” he said. “The conference is tough from top to bottom—nothing is ever given to you. You’ve got to go out and earn it.”

More than talent, though, Pethke is excited about the team chemistry and the positive atmosphere his players have created.

“It’s a great bunch of kids,” he said. “They’re really buying into the team effort, supporting each other, and working together. That’s what we need to be successful.”

With strong leadership, a returning core, and a team-first mentality, Manawa looks poised to once again challenge for the top spot in the conference—and maybe even finish what they started last season.