WOODBURY — New year, new teams for baseball and softball, so captains practices hit the cages. 

The Nonnewaug softball team started in October 2024 doing team workouts. Nonnewaug athletic trainer Sean McGee said it’s beneficial to start training for strength and endurance throughout the offseason.

“They’re working on gaining some strength,” says McGee, “because strength right now in the offseason is very important when it comes to baseball and softball.” 

Having the gym accessible for the players will help players build a base to be stronger for the upcoming season. 

“With the extra practices and the workouts, we’re going to be a lot better this year than we when’re last year,” says sophomore Scarlett Ivey. 

With the workouts, the softball team is going to the Rapids’ facility at The Pin Shop in Watertown. These voluntary sessions include work with pitchers and catchers, hitting, throwing, and fielding.  

Captains Elizabeth Boisits and Jade Rinaldi are running these practices to improve their 2025 softball team. 

“I just like to focus on the little drills,” says Boisits. ”I think that little things make a huge impact, whether it’s everydays or just basic hitting drills.”

Along with softball, baseball is also starting. Baseball is preparing for their upcoming season by having voluntary practices at the Hit Club in Thomaston. 

 “We are doing hitting drills and hitting off the machine. There are a few kids pitching off the mound,” says freshman Owen Hustek. “Some kids are getting fielding work with ground balls.”

 Having these voluntary practices are focusing on the basic fundamentals of baseball.  

Having the time to practice basic hints before the season will give players a better start and give them a chance to practice new things that will better them for games.