WATERTOWN, S.D. — The Watertown Arrow softball team begins its 2026 campaign this week, looking to improve on last year’s 4-13 record with a roster that spent the offseason sharpening its skills.
Coach Kelli Brinka said many players sought extra competition over the summer, with some joining club teams in Sioux Falls.
“That way they could have a little bit more experience because they start playing all fall,” Brinka said. “That was a great experience for them and kind of helps me out a little bit, too.”
After losing three seniors to graduation, the Arrows remain a young squad. Brinka noted that while the program is in a rebuilding phase, she expects significant leadership from her veteran players.
“We have three seniors that are returning and they will do great things for us,” she said.
The team has adopted the motto “Play with purpose and serve the team.” Brinka said the youthful energy has fostered a culture of internal accountability and mentorship.
“We’re really working on being a team player, working hard,” Brinka said. “The girls have stepped up and they’ve been coaching each other and pushing each other, and that’s been an amazing thing to see.”
Despite the roster’s overall youth, Watertown returns its primary pitcher and catcher. Alexa Brown returns to the circle as the Arrows’ main pitcher, while Emmy Berglund is expected to handle the majority of the catching duties.
Offensively, Brinka is prioritizing fundamental execution and “small ball” to generate runs.
“We’ve also really been stressing to the girls that you are going to get your bunts down,” Brinka said. “Great things can happen if you can play that short game. We want to put people in scoring positions—having somebody on second base versus first base. Now we get a hit and we’re in.”
Watertown is tentatively scheduled to open its season at home March 31 against Mitchell at the Premier Softball Complex.
WTNSports.com 