Informational Meeting - Tuesday, Dec. 15

Nearly 25 girls attended our first informational meeting for the 2010 softball season. Over 30 girls have expressed an interest in playing softball this season.

We have tentatively schedule open gyms every Sunday in January and February from 1:00 - 2:30 in the small gym at U-High. We also hope to schedule one night a week at Sports Enhancement during the month of February.

Good Neighbor Grants

Attention Parents - If you are employed by State Farm and you have not yet committed your $500 Good Neighbor Grant to another worthwhile charitable organization, please consider naming the U-High Softball program as a recipient of at least part of the valuable grant.

We have numerous volunteer options available, starting this fall with equipment inventory and uniform repair. Any money that we raise will go toward the purchase of a new pitching machine. Additionally, we should be in line to apply for matching funds for the Booster Club in order to reach our goal. Any additional money we raise will go toward the purchase of new uniforms for the 2011 season.

Thanks for your consideration in this matter - Coach Sondgeroth

IHSA Changes Pitching Distance for 2010 Season

Please check out articles in the Pantagraph on on the IHSA website (www.ihsa.org) regarding rule changes for the upcoming softball season. Most notable is their decision to move the pitching rubber from 40 ft back to 43 ft. Reasons sited were an increase in offense and safety of pitchers.

Let me know if you have any questions - Coach Sondgeroth

Supersectional Postponed - Party still on

Due to the possibility of poor weather conditions, the IHSA has postponed today's supersectional game until tomorrow at 4:30 pm.

However, we are going forward with the varsity team party as planned. Remember to bring your suit and an appetizer or dessert to share.

Contact Kali if you have questions.

Award Voting

Please send an e-mail to Coach Sondgeroth asap with your votes for the following team awards ...

Best Offensive Player

Best Defensive Player

Most Versatile Player

Most Improved Player

Most Spirited Player

Include suggestions for other awards, if you have any.

Please forward this information on to any varsity player who does not check facebook regularly.

Team Party - Monday, June 8

U High Varsity Softball END OF SEASON Pool Party!!

Monday, June 8: 6:30*- 9:00 pm (*following the Class 3A
Softball super-sectional game we are hosting at ISU)

Wear your swimsuit, bring extra chairs and an appetizer or dessert to share. We’ll pass out awards @ 7:00 and then sit back and enjoy the rest of the night!

The Riddell's are our gracious hosts ...
3316 Peppertree Lane, BL, 661-9816 Home
RSVP to Kali, Softballpanda11@verizon.net

Regional Update - Wednesday, May 27

Due to last night's rainout, our game is now scheduled to start at 6:30 pm. Vans will leave from U-High at 3:30.

Directions to the regional site:
Estimated Time: 46 minutes Estimated Distance: 34.68 miles
Take I-74 west toward Peoria.
Exit I-74 at the Goodfield exit. Turn right (north) onto Rt. 117.
Proceed into Eureka. Turn left (west) onto Rt. 24.
Travel a little over 7 miles. Turn left (south) onto County Rd 3 (Main St / Washington Rd).
Take this road into Washington. Look for signs to Washington Park or Pool.
As you enter town, look for Devonshire. Turn left (west) onto Monroe St.
Quickly look for N Wood St. Turn right onto Lincoln.
The park is located at 815 Lincoln.

Game Update - Wednesday, May 27

We play our first game of the regional on Wednesday, May 27, against Bloomington High School at 4:30 in Washington. Players are dismissed from class at 2:25. The vans will leave from the tennis courts at 2:45.

Any player scheduled to take an exam in their 2:00 class should contact her teachers via e-mail or phone sometime BEFORE Tuesday. If necessary, one of the vans will stay back and leave at 3:00.

Our game will be played at Jan Smith Field @ Lincoln Park located at 815 Lincoln in Washington, IL. I will post better directions on Monday.

Practice Update - Monday, May 25

Varsity (and invited sophomores) will practice from 2:30 - 4:00 at the ISU softball complex. Enter the field through the gates at the NE entrance (between the ISU soccer and baseball fields).

After practice, all players are invited to attend the U-High regional baseball game. Your name will appear on the pass list at the main entrance. In exchange for your admission, you are asked to help track down foul balls during the game.

Practice Update - Friday, May 22

We will go with my initial plan, with one twist.

All juniors and sophomores will practice after school from 3:30 - 4:30 at U-High. We will throw, work on a couple of infield situations, and hit off of the machine. If you have a conflict and can not make this practice, please send me an e-mail asap.

All seniors will come back to school after graduation practice and hit from approximately 11:00 - 11:30.

If we are able to get a solid practice in tomorrow night, then we will not practice on Saturday morning.

Practice Update - Wednesday, May 20

Practice tonight ... Varsity at Champion from 3:30 - 5:00 and JV at Fairview from 3:30 - ???.

Both games vs. Mahomet-Seymour tomorrow night (Thursday) will be played at Champion.

JV Game Update - Saturday, May 16

The entire Maroa-Forsythe JV tournament scheduled for Saturday has been cancelled. Neither the JV team nor the Varsity team will practice on Saturday.

The Varsity game against Prairie Central has been rescheduled for Monday, May 18, at 4:30. The players are dismissed from class at 2:25 pm.

Tuesday's home game against Streator has been designated as Senior Night. Meg Bottorff and Kristi Cook are heading up the planning efforts. Please check with them if you would like to assist in any way.

Game Update - Saturday, May 16

The Varsity double header at Clinton has been CANCELLED so clinton can make up games within their conference. Varsity will not practice.

JV is still scheduled to play in the Maroa-Forsythe JV Tournament. They are scheduled to leave from the U-High tennis courts at 9:30 am. Due to the varsity cancellation, all freshemen and sophomores will now be dressing and playin gin this tournament.

Game/Practice Update - Friday, May 15

Both games scheduled for this afternoon at Prairie Central have been cancelled. The Varsity game ONLY has been rescheduled for Monday, May 18, at 4:30 in Fairbury.

Varsity will practice tonight from 5:00 - 7:00 in the gyms at U-High. JV will practice from 3:00 - 5:00, sharing the gyms with varsity baseball.

Practice Update - Thursday, May 14

No practice tonight! The girls worked hard at practice last night and we have Class Night tonight, so we get the night off.

Tomorrow, Friday May 15, we are scheduled to travel to Prairie Central with both teams. The players are excused from class at 2:25 and the vans will leave from the tennis courts by 2:45. Should we lose another game to rain, we will practice at U-High. The practice schedule has us down from 5:00 - 7:00 again.

Game/Practice Update - Wednesday, May 13

Tonight's games at Pontiac have been cancelled. Both teams will practice from 5:00 - 7:00 at U-High.

JV Tournament Update - Sat, May 16

The schedule for the Maroa-Forsythe JV Tournament has been adjusted as follows:
12:00 Macon-Meridian vs U-High
1:30 U-High vs Mowequa Central A&M
4:30 Maroa-Forsythe vs U-High

- Home team will be determined by a coin flip prior to each game.
- 8-run rule in effect after 4.5 innings
- 75-minute time limit per game
- International tie-breaker in effect
- If running late, only 10 minutes between games
- No full infield practice will be allowed

Practice Update - Tuesday, May 12

Varsity will practice at Champion from 3:20 - 4:45 pm. JV should check with Coach Pessman after school to see where you are going.

Game Update - Monday, May 11

Major correction ... our game tomorrow night is at HOME!!!!! We are scheduled to play at 4:30 at Fairview Park, weather permitting. Varsity players should report to Fairview, dressed and ready to warm up, no later than 3:30. If you can arrive earlier, please do so, as we will have a lot of work to do to get the field ready for the game.

Practice on Tuesday, May 12 - If we go outside, varsity will practice at Champion and the JV will practice at Fairview. If we have to go inside, we are scheduled to go at 5:00.

Tournament Update - Saturday, May 9

All players should bring EVERY uniform that has been issued to them so far this season.

JV Schedule

6:30 - JV van leaves for Rantoul from the tennis courts at U-High - Your parents must e-mail Coach Sondgeroth or Coach Pessman by Friday if they will be driving you directly to Rantoul.

7:30 - All JV players should be at Wabash Park (Field #1) in Rantoul ready to begin warm-ups.

8:30 - JV plays first game vs Eureka on Field #1

If JV wins Game #1, last 2 games will be played at 1:00 and 4:00
If JV loses Game #1, last 2 games will be played at 11:30 and 2:30

Varsity Schedule

7:15 -Varsity Van leaves for Rantoul - All varsity players are strongly encouraged to attend the JV's first game

9:15 - Varsity players should report to the open area north of Field #4 (west field) ready to begin warm-ups

10:30 - Varsity plays semi-final contest vs Pontiac on Field #4

1:30 - Varsity plays final game of the tournament

All varsity players are strongly encouraged to attend the JV's last game

Complicating matters ...
1:00 - 4:00 - Final rehearsal for Tuesday night's Spring/Senior Chorus Concert - any player in chorus should talk to coach Sondgeroth about making arrangements to get back for at least part of this rehearsal

Practice Update - Friday, May 8

Both teams will practice inside today. Everyone should meet in the small gym at 3:15 for further instructions. Varsity will practice until 5:00 and JV will practice until 4:15.

Practice Update - Tuesday, May 5

Happy Cinco de Mayo!

Varsity players should meet in the small gym at 3:15. We will stay at U-High and work on various situations, etc. We will be done by 5:00.

JV will practice at Fariview from 3:30 - 5:30. Chloe, Kali, and Shannon - you will dress with the JV tomorrow night. If you want to go to the end of the JV practice, we can get you a ride down there about 4:30 pm. Just let me know at the start of practice.

Game Updates - Latest Information

Monday's Varsity game vs. Pontiac will be played at Champion #7 beginning at 4:30 pm. The JV will play Pontiac at Champion #6 beginning at 4:30 pm, as well. All players should arrive at the diamond no later than 3:30 pm.

Tuesday's Varsity game at Ridgeview has been cancelled due to Ridgeview's need to make-up a cancelled conference game. We have not been able to locate a replacement team for this game.

On Wednesday, the JV team faces Normal West at 4:30 at Maxwell East. Players should arrive at the diamond no later than 3:30 pm.

On Thursday, the varsity plays in the first round of the Corn Belt Conference Tournament in Rantoul. At this time, we still do not know the starting time or opponent for our game. The winner of tonight's varsity game should end up with the #2 seed.

Game Update - Mon, May 4 and Tues, May 5

Both teams are scheduled to play Pontiac at 4:30 on Monday, May 4 - Varsity at Fairview and JV at Champion #6. If it rains at all between now and Monday afternoon, we will have to move the game to Champion #7. Water was still standing around 2B at Fairview this morning. Monitor this site on Monday for a final decision.

On Tuesday, May 5, the varsity travels to Colfax for a 4:30 game vs. Ridgeview. Varsity players will be dismissed at 2:30 for a 2:50 bus time. The JV game with Central Catholic scheduled for Tuesday night has been cancelled.

Where Do I Go?

Not sure which field we can get onto at this time, so let's meet at U-High and we will adjust from there. I apologize for the confusion.

Practice Update - Saturday, May 2

As promised earlier this week, girls attending prom tomorrow night are excused from Saturday's practice. Please e-mail Coach Sondgeroth asap if you will not be attending practice.

Practice for everyone else (Varsity and JV) will run from 9:00 - 11:00 am. We want to go out, but water is still standing on the field at Fairview and I don't think there is space available at Champion. Please check this site tomorrow morning before heading to practice to find out exactly where we will start practice.

Schedule Update - Friday, May 1

Varsity game is still on as planned. 1st pitch at 4:15 at Maxwell Park. Players should be dressed and at the field by 3:30 pm.

JV players have a busy night - practice at 3:00, watch varsity game, and then out to dinner at Monical's on Main St. Girls should have money with them to help pay for dinner/tip/etc.

Practice scheduled for tomorrow morning from 9:00 - 11:00. Not sure if we will be in or out - check back before you leave in the morning for a location.

Schedule Update - Thursday, April 30

JV game at Rantoul has been cancelled. No make-up date has been scheduled at this time.

JV will meet in the small gym at 3:00 for a team meeting.

Varsity will practice from 6:30 - 8:00 at U-High.

Schedule Update - Tuesday, April 28

Both games for today have been cancelled. The Varsity game will be played tomorrow night (weather permitting) at Champion #7 at 4:30.

Since the JV already has a game scheduled for tomorrow night (4:30 @ C#6 vs Clinton), their game has been rescheduled for Thursday, April 30 at 4:30 AT RANTOUL. JV players will be dismissed at 2:00 and the vans will leave from the parking lot by the tennis courts between 2:15 and 2:30.

Since baseball will not be practicing tonight, we will move our practice up and run a full practice for both squads from 6:00 - 7:30. Players that want extra time in the cage may an additional 30 minutes. Everyone will be out of the gyms no later than 8:00!!!!!

Game Update - Monday, April 27

Tonight's game with El Paso-Gridley has been cancelled. No make-up date has been set. Players may attend an OPTIONAL hitting practice from 3:00 - 4:30 at U-High.

We are trying to add a game on Wednesday, April 29, with Peoria Richwoods. We hope to hear back from them first thing tomorrow morning.

Game Update - Monday, April 27

As of 1:30 pm, our game with El Paso-Gridley is still on for tonight. However, we are moving the game out to Champion #6 in preparation of uncooperative weather later today.

Game time is still 4:30 - players should report to the field no later than 3:30 pm.

I believe the JV team is practicing inside from 3:30 - 5:00 rain or shine. Contact Coach Pessman directly if you have questions.

Schedule Updates

Please make sure you have the following changes added to your schedule/calendar ...

Wed, April 29 - JV Home vs Clinton at C6 at 4:30

Fri, May 1 - Var @ Normal West @ Maxwell at 4:15

Mon, May 4 - Var (FV) and JV (C6) home vs Pontiac at 4:30

Tue, May 5 - JV game with Central Catholic cancelled

Thu, May 7 - We may cancel the JV game at Pontiac and try to move it to Wed, May 13

Sat, May 9 - JV @ Rantoul for Corn Belt Conference JV Tournament - times TBA

Tue, May 12 - JV game with Eureka cancelled

Wed, May 13 - We may cancel the JV game on Thu, May 7, at Pontiac and move it to this date

Sat, May 16 - JV will play in Maroa-Forsythe JV tournament - times TBA

Tue, May 19 - Var (FV) and JV (C6) home vs Streator at 4:30

Wed, May 20 - Var and JV game with Streator cancelled and moved back to Tue, May 19

Game Update - Saturday, April 25

Due to the rain, all of today's games in the Delavan Tournament have been cancelled.

We will not have practice today. Our next game is Monday, April 27, against El Paso - Gridley. We are scheduled to play at Fairview at 4:30.

Don't forget to add the rescheduled varsity games to your schedule - Fri, May 1 vs Normal West @ Maxwell at 4;15 and Mon, May 4 vs Pontiac @ Fairview at 4:30.

Additionally, the game against Streator, originally scheduled for May 20, has been moved to Tuesday, May 19, same time and place - 4:30 @ Fairview.

Schedule Update - Thursday, April 23

Tomorrow night's games in Mahomet begin at 5:00 pm. Girls should be on the bus ready to leave U-High by 3:15. We do not have an official early release due to the later start of the game.

The Varsity plays at the high school (302 W State St; Mahomet, IL 61853-7033).

Their website says the JV will play south of the junior high at 13 Acre Park, located to the southwest of the intersection of Main and Division. A crude map of the field locations can be found at: http://www.ms.k12.il.us/mshsathletics/images/PDFs/directionstomahomet.pdf

Delavan Tournament Update

Our first game in the Delavan Tournament is scheduled for Friday, April 24, at 6:30 pm vs. Peoria Christian and will be played at the Lake Diamond.

Win or lose, our second game will be played at 10:00 am - site and opponent to be determined by Friday's result.

If we lose our first two games, the schedule does not show us playing a third game. Should we win at least one of our first two games, then we would play our third game at either 3:00 or 5:00, site and opponent to be determined.

Because of the potential lay-off, the girls were hoping that the parents might be willing to put together a Small lunch for them on Saturday. If any parent is interested in spearheading this, I would greatly appreciate it.

Schedule Update - Wednesday, April 22

We have rescheduled tonight's rain out for tomorrow, Wednesday, April 22, at 4:30 pm. The game is currently scheduled for Fairview, but I don't think we will be able to play there. Positive confirmation moving the game to Champion will follow tomorrow morning.

The JV team will play there previously scheduled game with Normal Comm. at 4:30 pm on Champion #6.

Remember ... we have rescheduled the VARSITY game with Normal West for 4:15 pm on Friday, May 1, at Maxwell and both games with Pontiac for 4:30 pm on Monday, May 4 (Varsity at Fairview and JV at Champion #6).

Practice Update - Tuesday, April 21

Though I have not received confirmation from Coach Pessman, I believe the JV is practicing today from 5:00 - 7:00 today @ U-High. The Varsity will have an optional hitting practice from 5:00 - 6:00 in the small gym at U-High.

Game Update - Tuesday, April 21

Both of tonight's games have been postponed due to the poor weather conditions. We will attempt the Varsity game tomorrow night at 4:30 at Fairview. Since the JV was already scheduled to play Normal Comm at Champion #6 at 4:30. We will attempt to schedule to JV game at a later date.

Information on practice will follow later this afternoon.

Practice Update - Monday, April 20

Due to the inclement weather, we will practice INSIDE from 5:00 - 7:00 pm @ U-High.

The Week Ahead

Sorry for the confusion I caused on Friday. WE DO NOT HAVE A GAME ON MONDAY!

Monday, April 20 - If outside, everyone practices 3:30 - 5:30 with location TBA. If inside, everyone goes from 5:00 - 7:00.

Tuesday, April 21 - Home vs. Prairie Central @ 4:30 - Varsity plays at Fairview and JV at Champion #6. If inside, everyone goes from 5:00 - 7:00.

Wednesday, April 22 - JV Home vs NCHS @ 4:30 @ Champion #6. If outside, Varsity practices 3:30 - 5:00 @ Fairview. If inside, everybody goes 5:00 - 7:00 at U-High.

Thursday, April 23 - Away @ Mahomet @ 5:00 - All players (varsity and JV) dismissed at 2:45 and bus leaves at 3:05. If inside, everyone goes 5:00 - 7:00 at U-High.

Friday, April 24 - Varsity @ Delavan Tournament - Dismiss at 2:00 and leave at 2:30. JV practice outside at Fairview from 3:30 - 5:30. If inside everyone goes at 5:00.

Saturday, April 25 - Varsity @ Delavan Tournament - departure time TBA. JV Home vs Clinton at Champion #6 at 10:00. Report to diamond by 9:00 am.

Congratulations JV!!!!!

The JV team won 2 of 3 games today to take 3rd place in the Tri-Valley JV Tournament. Congrats Girls!!!!!

Schedule Update for April 17 - 18

Friday, April 18
Varsity @ Normal Comm starting at 4:30. Players should be dressed and at the field by 3:30.
JV practices at Fairview from 3:30 - 5:30.

Saturday, April 19
Varisty - tentative hitting session from 11:00 am - 12:00 noon.
JV @ Tri-Valley Tournament - 1st game at 8:30 vs Tri-Valley.

Stats Available Online

Step 1 - Go to www.statsandgo.com

Step 2 - Under the Search Menu in the left-hand column, select "HS-Var" for varsity stats or "HS-JV" for junior varsity stats

Step 3 - From the list of schools provided, click on "UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL (NORMAL)"

Step 4 - Under "Team Info", click on "Team Stats" or "Player Averages"

Step 5 - Click on the appropriate stats that you want: Offensive Stats, Fielding Stats, Pitching Stats, or Catching Stats. At this time, we have only entered Offensive and Pitching Stats for the varsity team.

Contact Coach Sondgeroth or Coach Pessman if you have trouble accessing this information.

Cancellations have been rescheduled

Friday, May 1 vs Normal West
Varsity @ Maxwell Park - 4:15 pm

Monday, May 4 vs Pontiac
Varsity @ Fairview - 4:30 pm
JV @ Champion #6 - 4:30 pm

Wednesday, May 6 vs Normal West
JV @ Maxwell Park - 4:30 pm

JV game w/ Eureka on Tuesday, May 12, has been cancelled.

We have added 2 one-day tournaments for the JV team:
Sat, May 9 - Corn Belt Conference JV Tournament
Sat, May 16 - Maroa-Forsythe Round Robin JV Tournament

Schedule Update - Tuesday, April 14

Due to the nasty weather, both the Varsity and JV games scheduled with Pontiac today have been cancelled. No make-up date has been set at this time.

Both teams will practice from 3:15 - 5:00 in the gyms at U-High.

Practice Update - Monday, April 13

Due to the poor weather conditions, both teams will practice inside today from 3:20 - 5:00.

We're playing

All games will be played as scheduled beginning 10:00 am. Call Coach Sondgeroth at 309-530-2297 if you have questions.

Game Plan for Saturday, April 11

It looks like the rain is letting up, so now we just have to hope that enough drying takes place between tonight and tomorrow morning. I have not had any contact with Bloomington as of 6:00 pm on Friday, so I don't have any idea what there alternate plans may be. We will make the call at Champion.

We will make our initial check of the fields at 8:00 am and will contact people immediately if there is any change in the schedule. Make sure that everyone knows where their phone tree is located so we can contact everyone in a timely fashion tomorrow morning. Options include starting later in the day. If that is the case, we will probably drop down to only one game. We may also consider moving the varsity games to Champion if Bloomington's field is not playable.

Varsity is scheduled to play 2 games tomorrow at the softball field located northwest of Bloomington High School off of Empire St. JV is scheduled to play 2 games at Champion Fields #5 against Bloomington. In both cases, the first game is scheduled to begin at 10:00 am. Players should be at the field dressed and ready to warm-up by 9:00 am.

I assume we will have 20 - 30 minutes available between games for the girls to grab a bite to eat. Each girl should pack something to drink and eat quickly so we can get back on the field and get ready for the second game.

Schedule Update - Thursday, April 9

Due to low numbers at Central Catholic, the JV game will now be played immediately following the Varsity game tomorrow night. Both games will be played at O'Neil Park in west Bloomington.

Additionally, the Varsity game will begin at 4:00. Varsity players will be dismissed at 2:45 and should be at the field ready to begin warming up by 3:15. JV players should be at the field by 4:00.

O'Neil Park is located on the east side of White Oak Rd (Old Rt. 66) north of Market Street in west Bloomington. From U-High, take College Ave west. Go past Parkside Elementary School and pass under I-55/74. Turn left at the stop light. This is White Oak Rd / Old Rt. 66. Follow this road to the field. Maps are available in my office.

Practice Update - Wednesday, April 8

We will practice outside tonight from 3:30 - 5:30. We're not sure of the exact location(s) yet - check the board after 1:00 to find out where your team has been assigned.

If we can not get outside after school, then we will NOT practice later in the evening.

April Practice Schedule

Spring practice schedules are tricky, as our first goal is always to go outside if the weather cooperates. However, there is a schedule for the gym if we should have to go inside.

On the U-High homepage, look for the "Athletics/Activities" section in the right hand column. You will see a links to "Games/Events" (where you can download our schedules) and "Practices" (where you can download the current practice schedule). We do make adjustments to the practice schedule an a fairly regular basis, so it is always a good idea to check back from time to time to make sure things haven't changed.

I apologize for any confusion - Coach Sondgeroth

Schedule Update for Tuesday, 4/7

As of this afternoon, the games for tomorrow were still on. There is, however, one major change to share with you.

Both the Varsity and JV games will be played at Olympia. Initially, the JV was to play at home, but they will now travel with the varsity to Olympia. The girls are dismissed from class at 2:45 and the bus will leave at 3:00.

The weather forecast calls for a high in the upper 40's. But winds from 20 - 30 mph will make things quite chilly. I have encouraged the girls to pack accordingly: gloves, hats, jackets, blankets, etc.

GAME CANCELED - Monday, April 6

Today's games with Normal West have been cancelled due to the poor weather conditions. No make-up date has been set at this time. We will practice in the U-High gyms tonight from 7:00 - 9:00 pm.

Schedule Update - Monday, April 6

We have games scheduled at Maxwell Park against Normal West at 4:15 for both the Varsity and JV teams. Players are responsible for finding their own transportation to the field and should be ready to begin warm-ups by 3:20.

Unfortunately, the weatherman has scheduled 1 - 2 inches of snow and a high temp in the upper 30's. IF the game is canceled, then we will practice from 7:00 - 9:00 in the gyms at U-High. Yes, I know practice will run later than Lindsay Schroeder's bedtime, but we clearly have some areas of our game that need improvement.

Practice update - 1:30 pm - Monday, 3/30

Anderson is out of the question as there is standing water in several locations.

Fairview is better as there is standing water in only one location. If the diamond gets dragged this afternoon, it will be perfect. If it does not, then practice at this location would be iffy, at best.

Therefore, all players (Varsity and JV) should meet in the small gym at 3:15 and await further directions. Every player should be prepared to practice inside (tennis shoes) and outside (cleats, sleeves and pants) during any part of tonight's practice.

Practice Update - Monday, March 30

Rain or shine, practice will be right after school. Make sure to bring sleeves and pants in case we are able to get outside. If we are outside, practice will run until 5:30.

Practice Update - Friday, March 27

We will practice from 3:30 - 6:30 today. Trade off is no practice tomorrow, Saturday, March 27.

3:15 - Everyone (varsity and JV) meet in small gym

3:30 - 4:45 - Everyone (varsity and JV) practice at Fairview

5:00 - 6:30 - Everyone (varsity and JV) practice at U-High

U-High Softball now on Twitter

I have set up a Twitter account to help in getting information out quickly when we are away from computers - think last night's practice. This site allows you to have texts sent to your cell phone with the messages I post. Search for "uhsoftball" and/or "Michael Sondgeroth".

Practice Update - Wednesday, March 25

It appears that the weather is going to cooperate today (unlike yesterday), so everyone should plan on being outside for practice from 3:30 - 5:30 pm. Same field assignments as yesterday. It won't be as warm, however, so be sure to have sleeves, pants, etc.

Practice Update - Tuesday, March 24

So far, so good! Weather.com is predicting that the rain should hold off until sometime during the 5:00 hour. That means we should still be able to get outside for practice tonight - same field assignments as last night. If we get significant rain during practice, however, we will NOT move back inside. We will just end the practices at the field and look ahead to Wednesday night.

CORRECTION - Monday, March 23

I misread the practice schedule ... if we practice inside today, it will run from 5 - 7!!!!!

So keep praying for sunshine so everyone can go out at 3:00.

Practice Update - Monday, March 23

It looks like the rain might miss us tonight/tomorrow, so we should be able to get outside (Varsity @ Anderson; JV @ Fairview). If we can not get outside, we have both gyms from 3:15 - 5:00.

Tuesday is still up in the air, as we have the gyms from 7 - 9 and there's a greater chance of rain. Keep praying for good weather.

Last note ... If you wanted to order any additional apparel, give the forms/check to me or Coach Pessman at the end of practice Monday or drop the form off at my office first thing Monday.

Second Apparel Order

We will be placing a second U-High Softball apparel order next Tuesday, March 24. If you have decided that you want something else, please download the order form, and return it with payment to me by the end of practice on Monday, March 23. The order form is available at: www.uhigh.ilstu.edu/math/sondgeroth/09_sb_order.pdf

One note ... We need at least 12 of a given type of print in order to submit an order. That is, we need at least 12 screen printed items (grey t-shirt or gray hooded sweatshirt) and/or at least 12 embroidered items (polo, fleece, windshirt, dri-fit t, visor, or trucker hat). Obviously, we stand a much better chance of getting to 12 embroidered items. It is less likely that we would get to 12 sweat pants or black t's, but I'll make every effort to make sure we get everything possible.

Practice Update - Saturday, March 21

The JV team will practice on Saturday morning from 10:00 am - 12:00 noon. We will start in the gyms at U-High and move to Fairview as the weather permits.

With weather in the forecast for Sunday - Thursday of next week, please pay close attention to the indoeer practice schedule posted on the U-High website.

No JV Game Saturday :(

Prairie Central has backed out of our tentative softball DH this Saturday. As a result, the JV will simply have practice. See the note below.

Additionally, please remove the DH w/ El Paso - Gridley from your schedule. They phoned today, stating that they did not have enough players to field a JV team.

Practice Update - March 19

All players should report to Fairview Park by 3:30 pm. It will be chilly, so remember to bring sweatpants and long sleeve shirts. Practice will end around 5:30 pm.

Tentative schedule for the rest of the week ...
Friday, March 20 - Varsity only from 3:30 to 5:30 at Fairview
Saturday, March 21 - JV only from 10:00 to 12:00 - we will start at U-High and finish at Fairview.

Possible JV Game on Sat, March 21

If we have enough girls available to play, we have the opportunity to play a JV double header on Saturday, March 21, at 10:00. We would leave from U-High around 8:00 am and return around 3:00 pm.

All JV players - please respond via e-mail to Coach Sondgeroth (sgrothfam@aol.com) asap to confirm or deny your availability for this contest.

Picture Clarification for JV Players

JV players should bring BOTH their shorts and their pants to practice tomorrow. We will make a final decision at 3:00 as to which you will wear.

If you own forest green or gold (PCSL yellow) socks, please bring them with you tomorrow. We will make a final decision at 3:00 as to what color everyone will wear.

Please remember to bring your completed envelope - along with check - with you to practice tomorrow. See the post below if you need another copy of the envelope.

Picture Day Updates

To download a copy of the envelope for photo purchases, go to:
http://www.uhigh.ilstu.edu/rssfeeds%5C0809links%5Cenv.pdf

Both teams will dress in their jerseys and long PANTS. Varsity players should also wear their belt. Bring a pair of forest , kelly or gold (yellow) long socks with you if you have them. We will decide on a color before the pictures tomorrow.

Team/Individual Photos - Wed, March 18

Team and individual photos on Wednesday, March 18, during our regularly scheduled practice from 3:15 - 5:00. Order envelopes will be distributed at practice tomorrow night. Orders, including full payment, are due when the photos are taken. Contact Photo by Kent if you have any additional questions.

Practice Update - Tuesday, March 17th

Coach Sondgeroth and Coach Sellers will run practice at Anderson.
Coach Pessman and all volunteer coaches will run practice Fairview. Meet in small gym at 3:00, if possible.

All seniors (3) and juniors (6) report to Anderson.

Warner and McCullough (2) report to Anderson.
All other sophomores (8) report to Fairview – meet in small gym first.

Hundman, Riddell, and McKeown (3) report to Anderson.
All other freshmen (6) report to Fairview – meet in small gym first.

Practice Update - Monday, March 16

We will go outside today!!!!! Players should meet in the locker room at 3:15 to load equipment. All players will practice at Fairview from 3:30 - 5:30 pm. Per school policy, players must find their own transportation to and from the fields. Players who will be walking to the diamond can place their bags in the back of Coach Sondgeroth's truck.

Parents should pick their players up at Fairview at 5:30 pm or back at the school around 5:45 pm.

Contact Coach Sondgeroth via cell phone at 530-2297 if you have any questions or concerns.

The Week Ahead

Weather forecast for Monday and Tuesday call for highs of 65 and 74, respectively. Assuming that we can find some dry ground, we definitely need to get outside.

We have two softball facilities available for our use in March - Fairview Park and Anderson Park. Please check the board outside the Activities Office after 1:00 to see where you have been assigned for practice each day. If we go outside, you should plan on practice running until 5:30 pm! It will be our first time out and it might feel cool, so I would encourage everyone to bring sweat pants and a sleeve

Don't forget team pictures are scheduled during practice on Wednesday. Combined with the forecast calling for rain, we will plan to go inside for practice. Please wear your uniform to practice so we don't have to waste time getting ready for the pictures.

Contact Coach Sondgeroth if you have any questions and/or concerns.

Weekend Update

Saturday, March 14 - Practice from 8:00 - 10:00 am with optional hitting practice from 10:00 - 11:00 am.

Sunday, March 15 - OPTIONAL hitting practice from 12:00 - 1:00 pm.

Practice Update for Friday, March 13

We will practice twice on Friday, March 13. The first session will run from 8:00 - 10:00 am. The second session, originally scheduled from 3:00 - 5:00 pm, will now run from 1:00 - 3:00 pm. An extended hitting session will run from 3:00 - 4:00 for anyone who wants to take extra swings in the batting cage. If this causes a problem for anyone, please contact Coach Sondgeroth as quickly as possible.

Game schedules now available online

Game schedules are posted online. For the varsity schedule, go to: www.highschoolsports.net/includes/calendarpdf/listing_print_html.cfm?schoolid=IL6176111768&year=2008&sport=8&lvl=1&division=2

For the JV schedule, go to: http://www.highschoolsports.net/includes/calendarpdf/listing_print_html.cfm?schoolid=IL6176111768&year=2008&sport=8&lvl=2&division=2

We are still trying to add 2-3 games to the varsity schedule and 3-5 games to the JV schedule. Check back regularly for any changes.

Change in practice time for Thursday, March 5

Girls soccer is giving up their early gym time, we will move our practice up to the 3:00 time slot. Girls should be in the gyms ready to practice by 3:20. We will practice until roughly 5:30. We will also distribute uniforms during this time.

Don't forget that softball apparel order forms are due to Coach Sondgeroth by the end of practice Thursday.

New Apparel Order Form Now Online

The updated apparel order form is available online at: www.uhigh.ilstu.edu/math/sondgeroth/09_sb_order.pdf

Order (with payment) are due to Coach Sondgeroth by the end of practice on Thursday, March 5. The only thing I am really pushing this year is that everyone has a black visor to wear for games. If you have purchased one in previous years and it still looks respectable, then I am OK with a player wearing that.

Orders are open to ANYONE associated with U-High Softball - players, coaches, parents, siblings, relatives, etc. Alos, if you want to order one of the embroidered items without the word "softball" below the U, that will be allowed as well. Just make a note of this on the order sheet in front of the item.

Contact Coach Sondgeroth if you have any questions.

Practice - Monday, March 2 - 5:00-7:00 pm

We will practice inside the entire time. Everyone should meet in the large gym at 5:00 ready to begin practice.

Practice officially begins TONIGHT

The 2009 softball season begins tonight, Monday, March 2, with our first official practice from 5:00 - 7:00 pm in both gyms. You must have a valid physical on file in the Athletic Office in order to practice tonight. Contact Ms. Smith of you have questions regarding your physical.

U-High Softball Apparel Order Form

Order forms are available online for the purchase of 2009 U-High Softball apparel. Go to:
http://www.uhigh.ilstu.edu/math/sondgeroth/09_sb_order.pdf

A couple of notes:
* No one is REQUIRED to purchase anything. The purchase of these items is completely optional.
* The back of the gray t-shirt reads: "Better to have played and lost than never to have played at all. 2009 U-High Softball"
* The black "Play Hard; Be Safe" t-shirt will have long sleeves.
* We are checking into the possiblitiy of offering a black visor, as well.

Checks should be made out to "University High School" with "softball apparel" in the memo. Completed forms should be returned to Coach Sondgeroth by the end of practice on Thursday, March 5.

Great Turnout for Player/Parent Meeting

Thanks to everyone who made it to the meeting last night. Hopefully we we able to answer most, if not all, of your questions.

If you were unable to attend the meeting last night, then your daughter should stop by the Math Office (Rm. 223) sometime today to pick up the appropriate papers.

Player/Parent Spring Meeting TODAY!!!!!

The Spring meeting for all sports participants and their parents will be held at 6:00 pm on Wednesday, February 25. Following the large group meeting, we will break off and hold a separate meeting just for softball players and their parents. We will discuus our tryout procedure and review the early practice schedule, including spring break.

Practice Begins Monday, March 2

Practice/Try-outs for the 2009 U-High Softball team will begin on Monday, March 2, from 5:00 - 7:00 pm in the U-High gyms. You must have a current physical on file in the Activities Office to participate on Monday. Schedule for the remainder of the week:
Tue - Practice/Try-outs 3:30 - 5:00 in U-High gyms
Wed - Practice/Try-outs 5:00 - 7:00 in U-High gyms - Coaches will meet individually will all players at the end of practice to announce cuts
Thu - Practice 5:00 - 7:00 in U-High gyms
Fri - Team building activity w/ Coach Pessman 3:00 - 5:00
Sat - OFF

Last Open Gym

The last preseason Open Gym will be held this Sunday, March 1, from 12:00 - 2:00 pm in the U-High gyms. Contact Coach Sondgeroth if you have questions.

Open Gym this weekend

We will hold an open gym on Sunday, February 15, from 12:00 - 2:00 pm in the U-High gyms. We also have the opportunity to get some gym time in the afternoon on Monday, February 16. We will discuss possibilities at the open gym on Sunday and I will post the exact times here on Sunday night.

Open Gym this week ...

We will hold an open gym this week on Sunday, February 8, from 12:00 - 2:00 pm. We will be sharing the gyms with another team, so we will work on fielding and throwing in the large gym from 12:00 - 1:00 and hitting and pitching in the small gym from 1:00 - 2:00.

Great Turnout for 2009 Open House

At last night's new student open house, over 30 girls expressed an interest in joining the U-High softball team for the 2010 season. Though not all of these girls will get into U-High or try out for softball, it is encouraging to know that interest in our program appears to be on the rise.

Now we just have to go out and prove that we are in fact a program on the rise!!!

No open gym this Sunday, Feb. 1

We will not have an open gym this Sunday. Players are encouraged to stop by the Math Office and pick up and outline of Coach Pessman's pre-season workouts.

Coach Sondgeroth now on Facebook

I have created a Facebook page and have created a new group for U-High softball. I don't know exactly what all of this means, but some of the players thought it would be a good idea.

Try becoming my friend - that's probably the only time you'll hear me say I want to be your friend - and then make an attempt to join the "2009 University High School Softball" group.

Hopefully, this will continue to increase the communication between the coaching staff and the players.

Addtional note: for those of you that uss RSS feeds, I have added that capability to this blog. I don't know if it will help, but it certanily can't hurt.

Let me know if any of this works for you or if there is something else that you think I can do to increase the lines of communication.

Open Gym well attended

We had 20 girls attend at least part of today's open gym. That's a fantastic number for January.

The girls are encouraged to start putting in a little more time and effort on their indivudiual conditioning heading into the season. They should start running and may want to consider lifting some weights to build some extra strength in both their arms and legs. Coach Lyons has the weight room open after school every Mon, Wed, and Fri afternoon. Coach Pessman has prepared a workout program that the girls can use/adapt to help them get prepared.

The workout plan will be available in my office after 9:00 Monday morning.

Coach Sondgeroth

Open Gym - TODAY - Sunday, Jan. 25

Today's open gym will run at U-High from Noon until 2:00 pm. Players should enter the school through the northwest entrance by the tennis courts on Gregory St.

Call Coach Sondgeroth at 530-2297 if you have any questiona/concerns or if you need someone to open the door to let you in.

ISU Softball Tentative Summer Camp Dates

All Purpose Day Camp for gr 2-6 ... June 9-11 ... 9 am - 12 noon
All Purpose Day Camp for gr 7-12 ... June 16-18 ... 9 am - 12 noon
Jr High Clinics ... July 7 ... Pitch 9 am - 12 noon ... Hit 1 - 4 pm
High School Clinics ... July 8 ... Pitch 9 am - 12 noon ... Hit 1 - 4 pm

Go to www.GoRedbirds.com for information on all ISU summer camps.

Next Open Gym - Sun, Jan. 25

We will hold our next softball open gym on Sun, Jan. 25 from 12 - 2 at U-High. We will throw, field, and run threw some hitting stations. I need at least 2 - 4 catchers in attendance to lighten the load on the ones that were there today.

See you Sunday - Coach Sondgeroth

Directions for open gym

To get into the open gym, you must enter the doors by the tennis courts between 11:45 and 12:05. I will have somebody posted at the door during these times. If you arrive after 12:05, call my cell phone - 530-2297 - and I will have someone get the door for you.

Thanks - Coach Sondgeroth

Open Gym Guidelines

Reminder - If you are currently participating in a winter sport (girls basketball or cheerleading), you may not pariticpate in an open gym for any other sport at U-High without expressed, written consent of your winter sport coach.

Have your coach e-mail permission for you to participate to me at SGrothfam@aol.com.

Thanks for your cooperation in this matter - Coach Sondgeroth

Reminder - Open Gym on Sunday, Jan. 18

Don't forget the softball open gym scheduled for Sunday, Jan. 18, from noon - 2:00 pm in the U-High gyms.

Because we did not have school on Wed, Thu, or Fri, many interested players did not see the announcement. Please pass along information regarding this open gm to all of your friends and/or classmates who may be interested in playing this year.

On a related note, only 6 players have signed up as followers of this blog. That means only 6 people get automatic updates when I post new information. Encourage your teammates to sign up as a follower of this blog so they can stay up-to-date during the upcoming season.

I look forward to seeing many of you tomorrow afternoon - Coach Sondgeroth

Open Gyms to begin soon ...

It's time to loosen up the gloves and dust off the bats! Softball season is just around the corner.

To help us get loosened up before the real work begins, we will begin hosting open gym time. The first of these is scheduled for Sunday, Jan. 18, from 12:00 - 2:00 in the U-High gyms.

Open gym time is your opportunity to come in and work on your basic skill development - throwing, fielding, pitching, and - hopefully - hitting. I assume the cage will still be available, but with all of the heater problems in the gyms I can't be sure.

If you plan to attend, please send me an e-mail so I can make sure we have sufficient space and activities available.

Coach Sondgeroth