Notre Dame Academy’s girls softball team began its season with a trip to Panama City Beach, Florida, the week of March 23. They stayed at the Edgewater Beach Resort in Panama City Beach on Florida’s panhandle. 

The team played three games on consecutive days March 26-28, defeating Destin High School 11-3 on Wednesday March 26.  

The team then played Jay High School on Thursday, where they lost by a score of 8-6. 

Their last game was played at Fort Walton Beach High School on Friday against one of the best teams in the state of Florida. The girls played them in Panama City and lost 16-1.

Numerous fundraisers that the players, coaches and families participated in funded the trip.  

These trips are something the team would like to do annually, but the cost and timing of the start of softball season will probably lead to an every-other-year schedule.

“I found these games through phone calls and contacting the various schools in Florida’s panhandle.  They were very cooperative and more than willing to host us,” explained Head Coach Scott Hermes.

With most Florida teams, including the ones they faced, already being halfway through their seasons and along with a few injured players, the girls did their best for their first games of the season.

Weather permitted the team to do local practices as well as team-bonding activities. 

The 18-hour bus trips also aided team bonding.

“The trip was highly beneficial as the older and younger girls jelled to form bonds that go beyond the game of softball,”said Hermes.

Beyond the coach’s point of view, players also had a good experience during their trip.

“I really enjoyed our trip. I got to connect with my teammates, travel for the sport I love and enjoy some nice weather,” said junior Jaedyn Mueller.