Ashley Pickert, Contributing Writer
This season, the softball team is starting not only with a whole new group of eager freshmen, but also with a new head coach.
In light of the beginning of official practices, Coach Elizabeth Krysiak shares some of her thoughts.
AP: What is your coaching experience?
EK: I coached the Houston Power for five years, and this is my fourth year coaching college-level softball.
AP: What made you decide to take the head coaching job at UD?
EK: I decided to take the head coaching job at UD because the school’s values align with my own. I also wanted to be able to become a part of a program and make a difference. This is a great place to be.
AP: What is your coaching philosophy?
EK: I coach using a lot of positivity. I believe that the game has so many facets to it, but without the original believe-in-yourself attitude it becomes a much more complicated task. I value hard work and good attitudes. I believe, with those things, success will come.
AP: How important is winning for you?
EK: Winning is not as important as doing things the right way. I believe that if you work hard and improve daily, the wins will come.
AP: What are your goals for the season?
EK: My goals for the season are to keep everyone healthy, to work hard every day, to play the game with passion and to improve every day.
AP: How do you feel about the first week of practices?
EK: I think the girls grew a lot through the first week of practice. They are getting to know each other better and beginning to become a team. While there are always improvements to be made, I like the direction we are going.
AP: What makes this year’s softball team special?
EK: This year’s team is special because they have adapted to a new coach quickly, and they are buying into the vision of the program. They believe in the possibilities and are excited to be Crusader softball players.
AP: What would you say to our competition this year?
EK: To the competition, I would say that they should get ready to see a whole new Crusader softball team!
AP: What inspires you?
EK: I am inspired by the young women I coach. They are growing into the people they will be for the rest of their lives, and I am lucky enough to get to play a role in that.
