Ronan’s younger players stand toe-to-toe with state power

Frenchtown

RONAN - With six players missing because of other school groups, the Ronan Maidens could have been shorthanded against Frenchtown last Thursday, but instead were able to work in several young players.

"It was nice to see how the girls responded," Ronan head coach Tom Peterson said. "Overall, I was excited with how they played."

Frenchtown placed third at state last year, but only led the Maidens 4-0, despite Ronan starting three freshmen at catcher, third base and center field. Frenchtown eventually pulled away in the later stages of the game for the 16-2 victory.

One of those freshman starting for Ronan was Jasmine Bocksnick, who had the tough task of filling it at the very important position of catcher.

"She was so nervous, you'd look at her and see those big eyes staring back," Peterson said.

Bocksnick was stellar though, providing an excellent backstop for pitcher Bethany Colman and also picking up two hits.

"It's not easy being a catcher. You've got to call pitches, relay signs, block the ball and adjust the defense," Peterson said.

Another freshman, Courtney Molzhon, went 1-for-3 and the Maidens as a whole picked up six hits.

"They all made plays and put the balls in play," Peterson said.

After Frenchtown had built an 8-0 lead, Ronan bounced back with two runs in the bottom of the fourth. However, the Broncs continued to add to their lead en route to victory.

The Maidens should be back to full force in time for their conference matchup against Columbia Falls today with key players returning.

"We'll have a couple days of practice before we play Columbia Falls," Peterson said. "We just need to work on everybody's communication and just getting those girls in the rhythm of softball."