AUDIO: Shawano Softball Preview Spotlight

The Shawano High School Baseball Spotlight

A new era is underway for Shawano softball, and first-year head coach Nate Boucher is already seeing signs of something special.

“They’ve got a lot of drive,” Boucher said of his squad. “They show up and work hard at every practice. They’re always picking each other up and just keep working — that’s all you can ask for as a coach.”

Boucher, stepping into the role with fresh eyes, said his main focus has been laying the foundation for the program — and he’s been impressed with how quickly his players have bought in.

“So far, they’ve been adapting very well to what we’re trying to build,” he said.

As with any softball team, pitching will be a key to success, and Shawano has some reliable arms leading the way. Cadence Meyers has logged the bulk of the innings early in the season, with Lily coming in strong behind her.

“I just keep telling them — hit your spots, and if they hit it, your defense is going to back you up,” Boucher said. “And they have.”

The Hawks have already gotten some outdoor games in, including a recent matchup at Xavier that marked their first time on dirt this spring.

“It felt good. The girls were feeling great out there,” Boucher said. “They’ve been hitting the ball really well — we’ve had a couple of indoor home runs already, and we’re putting runs on the board.”

He credits that offensive success to adjustments made in the offseason — changes that came directly from conversations with his players.

“They asked if we could tweak a few things in practice, and we did. What we adjusted, they’ve really adapted to well,” he said.

Boucher will lean on returning talent like Meyers in the circle, Ella anchoring the middle infield, and Abby Wachtel at first base. That veteran core is being boosted by younger players who are quickly stepping up.

“I’ve got a few sophomores and juniors who haven’t played a lot of varsity before,” Boucher said. “They’re rising to the occasion in a big way.”

With a mix of leadership, work ethic, and emerging talent, Coach Boucher is optimistic about the direction his team is heading.

“It’s been a great start, and we’re just getting going,” he said. “There’s a lot to be excited about with this group.”