Successful spring break trip ends in 32-hour drive

The CSB softball team is off to a swinging start this season with a record of 9-1.

On the first day of their spring break trip to Florida, the Bennies won both games 2-1, the first against Husson University and later in the day Hiram College. The second day, they split the day with a win against the University of Mount Union (7-3) and a loss to Muskingum University (0-7). After a break in play due to bad weather, the team finished their trip with two wins against University of Massachusetts Dartmouth (3-1) and Alfred University (10-2).

The team experienced some challenges getting home. Their return involved two flight delays and a 32-hour car ride.

“The only option was to drive back,” senior Katie Carlson said.

The team decided to drive home in order to make it back for class on Monday.

“The flight cancellation turned into quite the adventure,” senior Sheridan Glashan said. “It was sad not getting home the simplest way, and we are all thankful for our coaching staff and other personnel that tried their best to get us all on different flights home. But in the end, we decided to drive.”

The team ended up spending two days straight in multiple minivans heading back to Minnesota.

“With a 32-hour trip, it was exhausting, but we all kept our minivans fun—from singing in the car to finding the most comfortable napping position, and even to finding the joy in gas station snacks. We did all get back in time for class Monday morning, but it took hotspots and tutor sessions to make it all happen, which makes me thankful for my team. We were all able to get our things done and help each other through the process,” Glashan said.

This incident is a testament to the team’s ability to work together to solve unforeseen problems, along with their ability to remain positive when things don’t go as planned.

“The overall dynamic of our team this year is different. We all get along so well, and we are all high energy. When it comes down to it, at the end of the day, you’re a team,” Carlson said.

The season has been going well for the CSB softball team, as past players can sense a shift between a COVID-affected season last year and a more normal season this year.

“The current season has been much more enjoyable, with less worries compared to last year’s COVID season,” Glashan said. “We are finally able to do the simple things like standing next to each other and cheering during both practice and games,”

The softball team has high goals in mind for a successful rest of the season.

“Winning the MIAC and the tournament are our big team goals for this year,” Carlson said.

The next CSB softball game is home on March 19 at the CSB softball fields against Bethany Lutheran College.