By Ken Hansard
Wichita Northwest senior Lillian Hoffman is embracing every moment of her final high school softball season as a leader for the Grizzlies. A pitcher and utility player, Hoffman enters the year focused on growth, consistency, and making the most of her last opportunity to compete with her teammates. “I’m trying to improve and have a great final season of high school competition,” Hoffman said. “My role is to be someone my teammates can count on both on and off the field.”
Hoffman has already built an impressive resume during her time with the Grizzlies. Last season she recorded 150 strikeouts, the third-highest total in Kansas for the year. She has also surpassed 200 career strikeouts and is setting her sights even higher this season. “I’m hoping to reach 300 this year,” Hoffman said.
The Grizzlies finished last season with a 13–13 record and placed third in the Greater Wichita Athletic League (GWAL). Hoffman believes the team has the potential to take another step forward if it continues to develop chemistry. “I believe we can be very successful. We just need to find our rhythm and count on each other to work as a team.”
Individually, Hoffman spent the offseason focusing on maintaining her body and improving her routine. “I’ve worked on my routine by consistently stretching and taking care of my body after practices and workouts,” she said.
When not on the diamond, Lillian has many other interests. Specifically, she competed in tennis for three years as a Grizzly and qualified for the state tournament in back-to-back seasons, another accomplishment from her high school career that she takes pride in.
Following graduation this spring, Hoffman plans to continue playing softball at Fort Scott Community College while studying criminal justice. As her final high school season unfolds, she’s determined to leave a lasting impact on the Grizzlies program.
