By Matt Browning
Just a freshman, Bluestem’s Dani Orpen was an honorable mention all-league shortstop last season.
She followed up her 2024 campaign by leading the Lions to a 20-win season and a bid in the 2-1A Tournament, which included a 12-2 route of No. 2 seed Remington in the regional final.
A first team all-league selection seems inevitable and Orpen credits her teammates and coaches with being a positive influence.
“My teammates and coaches have meant a lot to me throughout this season,” Orpen said. “My coaches give a lot of support and my teammates always have positive energy and lift me up after I make mistakes.”
Throughout the regular season, there was one particular moment that stands out above the rest for Orpen.
“The highlight of my season has been hitting an out of the park homerun against Fredonia,” said Orpen. (Bluestem swept the double-header by a combined score of 35-0.)
First-year coach Ashtyn Jurging told VYPE before the season that Orpen is what makes the Lions’ lineup go.
“Dani is a stellar athlete that is looking to make a large impact this spring,” Orpen said. “She is a good contact hitter and is vital in the heart of our lineup.”
