As assistant softball coach Hailey Winter steps onto the RHS softball field for the first time, she feels excited to coach her new team.

Winter is the new assistant coach for the softball team this year, bringing a positive energy to the team.

Sophomore Allie Choat said Winter has helped the team improve in several areas. She gives clear feedback and always knows how to fix problems during drills or games.

“I think she’s very fun,” Choat said. “She’s always talking, and you can hear her from any spot of the field.”

Senior Austyn Ybarra said Winter’s encouragement has improved the team’s confidence. She said she brings a positive attitude to every practice and helps players feel more comfortable in their abilities.

“I love Coach Winter so much,” Ybarra said. “She’s so nice and friendly and fun.”

Ybarra said Winter has helped her grow individually during her last season. Her support has made her more confident on the field.

“She’s helped my confidence grow,” Ybarra said. “She’s helped me be more comfortable in my ability.”

Freshman Peyton Fleming said Winter has helped her adjust to high school softball by giving specific corrections.

“She knows exactly what you do wrong if you mess up on a drill,” Fleming said.

Fleming said Winter has helped her improve her hard work and technique. She has also helped the team stay connected and positive during games.

Assistant coach Payton Sabolski said working with Winter has brought excitement to the coaching staff.

“She always brings the energy and has a great attitude towards everything,” Sabolski said.

Sabolski said Winter has introduced new hitting ideas and defensive knowledge that have strengthened the team. She has also helped the players think more about the mental side of the game.

“Her knowledge has helped us a ton,” Sabolski said.

Senior Mia Keeler said Winter has changed the team’s mindset during games. Winter knows how to lift the team when momentum drops and helps keep the dugout positive.

“Coach Winter is probably the best new coach I’ve ever gotten,” Keeler said. “She has the best energy.”

Keeler said Winter has taught her the importance of bringing energy to the field and helped her understand how much attitude can affect the team.

Players said the team feels more connected and more confident since Winter arrived. They said practices feel more upbeat, and the team communicates more than before.

“Everyone’s mood gets up,” Fleming said. “Especially if we’re losing. She knows how to make us happier and keep our energy up.”