Coming from the softball crazy town of Casey, Saluki second baseman Jami Koss said it was obvious she would eventually play softball.

As soon as you are born you had a softball thrust into your hand, she said. It’s almost like they expect you to play.

While Koss’ high school, Casey-Westfield, has been very successful over the years, the hard-nosed philosophy of the school’s coach, Denny Throneburg, differs from the fun-loving atmosphere promoted by SIUC softball coach Kay Brechtelsbauer.

Advertisement

In high school, you did not even take time out to have fun during practice, Koss said. You can relax here.

Softball, like anything else, becomes a real chore if you don’t laugh, but we do know when to get serious.

Brechtelsbauer said hard work and having a relaxed team are stepping stones for success.

I believe that you work hard and set your goals and then you work to reach your goals, she said. If you have fun you’ll have success, and if you have success, you’ll have fun.

While Throneburg was a tough

see KOSS, page 11