By Jeremy McDonald

jeremymcdonald73@gmail.com

AURORA, Ore.–  It took a year for the North Marion Lady Huskie softball team to get used to the Oregon West Conference after spending some time in the Tri Valley Conference prior to the 2014-2015 re-organization of the 4A level.

That first year, North found themselves 12-14 overall in 7-8 in the Oregon West Conference, just a game behind Cascade for the last play-in spot for a possible berth in the playoffs.

But now, in 2015-2016, the Huskies are a lock for second in the league behind powerhouse Newport after a fast start to not just the league season, but the season all together.

“We had the potential last year but we didn’t have  as much experience or leadership as terms of positives,” started Head Coach Rachel Camp.  “This year, a couple of my seniors have really stepped up, being really positive with their teammates.  Very commutative and really verbal about making sure everybody is on the same page.  So that’s always helpful.”

One of those seniors is Kelsie Henry, who was on last year’s squad, knows the feeling of not just team unity, but knowing now that they’re set for the postseason with hosting a play-in game.

“It’s a good feeling because as of last game (versus Philomath) we were sealed for second,” said Henry.  “So knowing we’re in a play-in game at home, that’s a good feeling.

“We’re pretty much all back expect for one so having a little bit of that unity already built is good to have.”

That confidence has turned into fun said Ally Umbenhower, who was also on that team last year, and knows that they can use that confidence to their advantage as they look to built further against Newport and Cascade to end the regular season.

“It’s a very fun year for everybody, we’re looking good and see have far we’re going to get,” said Umbenhower.  “Our confidence is higher than last year and we’re able to see what we’re capable of so we’re using that to our advantage.”

Wednesday, they have the top seeded Cubs at their place before hosting Cascade for senior night on Friday.

It won’t be until Thursday, May 19, before the North Marion Lady Huskies will host their play-in game.

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PHOTO GALLERY (PICTURES FROM MONDAY’S GAME VERSUS STAYTON.  PICTURES BY JEREMY MCDONALD)