The ISU Softball Club exemplifies what tight chemistry within the locker room looks like. A close bond can go a long way in a team’s performance on the field, and it is doing just that for the softball club.

The club ended last fall season with a record of 7-1, and things are only looking up for the team, as it is expected to go undefeated this upcoming spring season.

“We are currently first in our conference, which is a big step for this club” said club President Alex Tinaglia. “We were seen as an underdog a lot of the time, but this season we are big slap in the face to other teams.”

The young team has vastly improved since it began five years ago. It’s the developed closeness among players that has served as the catalyst for the quick change of direction. 

“We have a very close family bond,” said catcher Amy Schaefer. “We do a lot of team bonding, and we are all so weird and just mesh so well.”

The team keeps the bond off of the diamond as well. 

“We are constantly doing things like going to hockey games,” Tinaglia said. “We have a very active group message.”

Despite making it to regionals last season, the club still fell short of its hopes for nationals, something it is focused on remedying through enhanced physical training. 

“One of the things we are implementing right now is a workout regiment to improve,” Tinaglia said. “If each teammate gets stronger and faster it is only going to help us.” 

The softball club is often overlooked due to the fact Iowa State has a school-sanctioned softball team, but the club team is just as competitive on its respective level.

“Sometimes, people think of club ball as related [to] an intramural, and that is definitely not the case. This club is very competitive.” said Tinaglia. “Some girls on the team, including myself, have played on the Iowa State Softball team, so we are all diverse in skill.”