At the start of the season, the atmosphere surrounding VTSU Castleton’s softball program was shaky. A new head coach, unfamiliar systems, and early losses caused the team to have a slow start. New head coach Eric Kraut understood the transition would be a process, but he said he welcomed it.  

“A typical dynamic for a new coach with a new team is understanding the communication styles of each player in order to help them reach their goals for the season,” Kraut said. “And that also in turn helps create a more cohesive team and build trust between me and them as well as between the players.” 

When Kraut took the reins in the offseason, he brought new energy and a vision for the team. Known for his offensive-minded way of coaching, Kraut has also brought an attitude of positivity and belief.  

Junior Samera Rideout has recognized Kraut’s energy and believes it’s been a boost for the team. 

“Initially it took time for us to get used to him, but then we all realized Kraut had a different coaching style compared to what we’ve had before,” Rideout said. “He’s a very positive coach who thinks outside the box, giving us the ability to play more fearlessly without the thought of making mistakes and helping us focus on winning as a team rather than individually.” 

But the change wasn’t easy, and the Spartans did start the season 3-5 with two opening clunkers against Middlebury College where they managed to be held scoreless in both games.  

Miscommunication, errors, and inconsistent play plagued the team through the first few weeks. But despite the setbacks, Kraut remained focused on the process. 

“This team is adaptable and has worked hard through all the changes they’ve had with a new coaching staff. They play big when they are winning and when they are behind, creating a strong mental game which is a key to success,” Kraut said. “The team has all committed to the same goals for the season, which has helped us work together and buy into the values that will get us where we want to be,” Kraut added.   

A turning point came during a road trip in early April where the Spartans traveled to battle Umass Dartmouth. The Spartans won a tight game 2-1 in the first matchup but showed grit in the second when they pulled out a victory in extra innings to seal the win and the sweep.  

Rideout spoke about how this matchup further solidified the team’s trajectory.  

“When we swept Umass Dartmouth, it was encouraging because they were ranked higher than us going into that game,” Rideout said. “We pulled through the first game and came back in the second game. It showed our grit and how much we believe in ourselves. We learned we can compete with the top teams in the conference after that game when we believe in each other and trust the process.” 

Junior outfielder Jordan Hill has also seen the shift in the atmosphere as the season has progressed. Hill believes Kraut has been the addition the program has needed because he understands the player’s abilities and leans on those abilities.  

“My first two years I was not happy because I felt I wasn’t getting the looks I deserved, but when Kraut came in, he gave me the chance I deserved and I ran with it,” Hill said. “I just believe the new coach believes in our talent and that wasn’t always the case in years past. Kraut believes in everybody and wants us to be the best we can be which allows us to play free.” 

With the second half of the season looming, the Spartans are far from satisfied. This team is eyeing a playoff push as they look to battle for positioning in the conference standings. The schedule won’t be easy, but they’ve already proven they can grow through adversity and come out stronger together.  

“I’m excited to see how we finish the regular season playing the way we’ve been playing, we’re all thrilled to see everybody getting their chance and now the team is closer, allowing us to not dwell on negatives,” Hill said. “This coach has boosted my confidence and the team’s confidence, giving us that spark we needed.” 

Kraut believes the Spartans need to stay grounded in order to build on their momentum as they enter the latter half of their schedule. He said it’s important for them to recognize who they are as a team and not let external factors change who they are.  

From early struggles to a midseason resurgence and a current 15-11 record, the Spartans are flying high and the best may still be ahead.