Pipers battle to finish strong in homestretch of 2025 softball season
As the Hamline University softball team looks to close out the 2025 season on a strong note, players are balancing the results of a tough regular season against the expectations of what next year could bring.
Currently sitting with a 15–21 overall record and a 5–13 conference record, the postseason is unfortunately out of reach for the Pipers. Despite this, the team’s motivation and desire are driving them to finish with the best record possible.
One of the ways the team is working towards that is by honing their practice regimens. Senior infielder Jenna Rubbelke shared how practices have shifted in recent weeks.
“In practice, we have been focusing on getting as many hitting [repetitions] as possible to help us produce more runs in our games,” Rubbelke said via email.
Along with fine-tuning their practice fundamentals, the team is also finding creative ways to stay motivated, even when only two games remain in the season.
“To stay motivated, we have been showing up to practices early to bond and talk to each other as friends and teammates to always start the practice off in a fun spirit,” Rubbelke said.
One other factor that will play a significant role in finishing the season strong is staying connected with one another. Having a clear sense of familiarity with each teammate and their athletic tendencies may just be the perfect recipe for success that the Pipers are striving towards. Rubbelke highlighted just how strong the team chemistry is and how their bond continues to grow in several ways.
“We have pretty much the same team as last year, [while] adding in three freshmen this year. The chemistry on our team goes deep. With a lot of people living together and spending a lot of extra time off the field together, our connections have grown much deeper than just teammates,” Rubbelke said.
With both the end of the season and the spring 2025 semester right around the corner, Hamline softball will not be back on the field until February. Despite the next season being nine months away, the team is already thinking ahead about how they can stay connected to the sport.
Although Rubbelke will not be returning next season because she is a senior, the mentality is something that can be drawn upon by all returning Piper players. Rubbelke reflected on how she kept herself involved with the sport during past offseasons.
“I’ve spent my last four summers coaching for a club softball team to keep me both in the game and also let myself and my body take some time off,” Rubbelke said.
With Rubbelke’s offseason regimen allowing her to take some time to rest her body, this might serve as some good advice for returning Pipers to follow as they look to get their mind, body and spirit ready for the upcoming 2026 season.
Although the 2025 season may not have turned out the way the Pipers wanted it to, Rubbelke is parting on a positive note.
“Hamline softball has always been really important to me. I will miss being able to play for Hamline after I graduate, but I will always be happy to show up and support the program.” Rubbelke said.