New softball coaching staff brings positive changes

Marisa Headley

The three amigos, Bob Knudson, Tom Stewart, and Jim Motl, have entered Marian’s softball program as coaches.

The new coaches are very excited to be part of Marian. Head coach Knudson explained that the reception at Marian “made us feel like family.”

Likewise, Marian was happy to receive the coaches. “I really like them a lot because they know what they are doing. They are always positive and never lose faith in us,” said junior Laura Brannen who has played Marian softball for three seasons.

Knudson has been involved with softball for the past 30 years. He has been a player, coach, and umpire, which gives him a well-rounded expertise of the game. Currently, Knudson and his wife own Metro Omaha Softball. He was very excited to coach at Marian and feels the team is “an enjoyable group of young ladies. Their commitment, self-motivation, and love of the game is terrific.”

Assistant coach, Stewart, has played and coached softball and baseball for 25 years. In fact, he still plays in an “over 30” league. Stewart loves the game because “it is ever-changing, from one pitch to the next you always have to be thinking.”

Motl, assistant coach, also played baseball for many years. He is an Omaha native and Mount Michael High School graduate. Motl became involved with softball four years ago when his niece played on an 18 and under select team. He was a hitting coach at the College of Saint Mary and an assistant coach at Marian last year. “I was very excited about getting going this year. We have struggled a little to get going with the new staff, however, I anticipate playing very well we have a lot of talent,” said Motl.

Former coach, Sean Semeler, left Marian this summer to coach at Southwest State in Minnesota. “We all miss him, he was a fun coach to play for,” said senior Cassie Kleinsmith.

Through the adjustment, the players are still having fun. “It has been a lot of fun, but then we have to get a lot done in a little bit of time,” said junior Audrey Johnson.

Many players agree this year is a change. “It’s been a lot different than last year. Some things are easier to deal with and some things are harder,” explained sophomore Sara Loeffelholz.

A new coaching staff is not the only change for softball this year. The Crusader field is getting a makeover. Softball parents recently started a booster club to raise money for the program. Their first priority, new surfacing dirt, has already been put on the infield. The booster club also hopes to earn money for lights and various equipments. Knudson feels there is a lot to be thankful for because the refurbished field will be “the finest softball field in Omaha, no brag, fact.”

Although their season has started off slowly, the improved field and full adjustment to the new staff may bring improvement. Marian has never won a State Softball title, however, one thing is certain for Knudson, “As far as going to State, other teams have to go through us.”