As spring approaches, Lakeside High school is gearing up for its upcoming softball season, with tryouts expected to draw a strong group of returning players and new talent. Head coach Phil Bemiss, who is entering his second year as varsity head coach, says the program is focused on growth, effort, and building a competitive team culture.
“This has been my first year teaching at Lakeside, but I’ve been coaching softball here for six years,” Bemiss said. With 14 years of coaching experience overall, he brings both consistency and high expectations to the program.
Tryouts will be an important opportunity for athletes to demonstrate their physical abilities but also their mindset. According to Bemiss, skill alone is not enough to secure a spot on the team. “ I look for experience, athleticism, and softball IQ, but above all, I’m most interested in seeing effort and coach ability,” he said. “I want student athletes who understand the need to be students of the game.”
Players trying out are aware of these expectations. Junior Kam Freeman emphasized confidence and attitude as key factors. “ Be confident, play to your fullest, and have a good attitude,” Freeman said when asked what makes a great player during tryouts. Her personal goal for the season reflects the team’s competitive mindset: “ To go to the playoffs and play well for myself.”
Another Junior, Tammyn Martin, highlighted the importance of leadership and teamwork. “ Leadership, hard work, and being a good teammate to others” are qualities she believes coaches look for. Martin has set high personal goals, aiming to “make first team all region and become a leader or captain for the team.”
Beyond skills goals, players also bring their own routines and mental preparation to the field. Freeman shared that she stays focused by reminding herself to watch the ball at times, while Martin described a more personal approach: “I draw a cross in the dirt, do a small prayer, and take three deep breaths before I step into the box.”
The team itself will remain relatively selective. Bemiss expects to carry approximately 12 to 13 players on both the varsity and junior varsity teams, making competition at tryouts strong. Still, his focus remains on development as much as performance. “ The goals for this season are for all players to improve and for the team to make the state playoffs,” he said.
Lakeside’s softball program continues to build a reputation for determination and teamwork. With experienced coaching, motivated returning players, and new athletes eager to prove themselves, this year’s tryouts are shaping up to be both competitive and promising.
Students interested in joining the team should come prepared to give their full effort, demonstrate a willingness to learn, and show what they can bring to the program. As Bemiss emphasized, success starts with effort and that’s exactly what he’ll be looking for when players step onto the field.
