By Aerika Roberts (Journalism & Yearbook student, Class of 2027)
Onekama Softball hosted a K-8 skills clinic over the summer. The event was put on by coach Rob Johnson and Portager softball athletes. Sophomore athlete Genna Short described the clinic as a fun event, stating, "It was fun, [and] I enjoyed seeing younger girls get into the sport ... I'm very happy about how the skills camp turned out ... I appreciate the adults who came to help out!"
Here in the Onekama Journalism classroom, we took the time to interview coach Rob Johnson about the event, as well. His interview with sophomore Aerika Roberts is included below.
How long was the camp for?
The clinic was a two-day event.
How many people came to the camp?
About 15 players attended each day! (Some being returnees.)
On Day 1, the clinic lasted form 6pm-8pm, centered around players that wanted to learn some basic mechanics on how to become a pitcher, catcher, or both. Day Two [was an] “all skills day” that started at 9am and finished at 3pm. Skills included basic overhand throw, out-fielding, in-fielding, batting, base running and sliding!
Who organized the camp?
The instructors for this day included, Paul Maksym, Shelli Johnson, Ashley Kubiskey, Kaitlin Kubiskey, Paul Cunningham, Katie Dye and [myself]. Varsity players that also helped on Friday were, Ava Mauntler, Heather Zielinski, Karima Castillo, and Grace Heigis [from] Benzie Central (the first day). Genna Short [joined for] day two.
How do you feel about the camps turn out?
I thought the turnout was great and look forward in growing bigger and better every year! [I hope] to turn it into a annual clinic.