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As tryouts begin next week here in Ohio, thought I'd post a few reflections on our family's experience. I love H.S. softball. My daughter does as well. She's in a D1 program with a great coach! That being said, you all must realize that as a Freshman player you will not necessarily be welcomed with open arms into the program. Remember that you will be taking someone's perceived spot. A spot of a friend,classmate, teammate. You will have to rely on your coach to help make this transition. It will not be easy on your daughter. I even had a parent tell me that my daughter shouldn't be playing varsity, because her daughter was not allowed to play varsity under a previous coach. This was midway in the season and my daughter was leading the team in RBI's and extra base hits. So be prepared. It will all work out. It won't be without bumps in the road however. Because of this experience my daughter has a different view of Freshman players. She has personally sought out and responded to kids who have sought her out to offer advice and even instruction to help them improve their game. For some it is not an easy transition. For the first time your daughter may be "out there" without a mom or dad as an advocate. Be patient. If your daughter has "the game" to play at the varsity level, a coach worth his or her salt will recognize and find a way. These coaches are under a lot of pressure from all involved and your daughter's skills and abilities may take time to present itself, but it will happen.
Good Luck!
Good Luck!