Nansemond River High School’s softball team is looking to continue to improve as they go into their break.

The Lady Warriors are 6-3 on the season, but they feel as though they can still improve. Coach Gabe Rogers believes there is another level his team can reach.

“I think we are playing OK right now,” Rogers said. “We’re not where we want to be right now, but I’m hopeful that we’ll keep progressing and move in that direction to get there. We are heading in a good direction.”

Before the season started, Nansemond River was in somewhat of a rebuild. They graduated numerous seniors who were major contributors on last year’s team. This year, Nansemond River has players who were behind them stepping into significant roles this year. So far, Rogers likes how they’ve accepted their expanded roles.

“They understand that it is a process,” Rogers said. “We have to continue to take steps to achieve the level of play we want to get to. The girls that have stepped in accepted their roles and are working hard every day to continue to get better.”

Madi Rhoads, in particular, has stepped into a bigger role at pitcher and has pitched well for the Lady Warriors. Freshman Toni Jones is learning a new position but is making strides for the team. Ashlyn Rogers and Katelyn Biando have been contributing for the Lady Warriors as well.

“We’ve played really well,” Rogers said. “I think we are continually getting better as each game goes by.”

“I think we are doing extremely well considering we are a new group of girls,” Rhoads said. “We are still learning how each other play and communicate, but we are definitely adapting quickly and effectively.”

Rogers says that he is proud of what his girls have done so far, but he doesn’t want to settle. Their ultimate goal is to win their conference and get an automatic regional bid.

“We understand at the beginning of the season our schedule gives us the opportunity to work out kinks,” he said. “When we do get into conference play, hopefully we will be playing at a higher level, and everyone’s roles will be a little more defined.’

The Lady Warriors know they are going to make mistakes, but it is about how they support each other through the mistakes. They are continuing to develop their winning culture as the team continues to find their identity.

After spring break, the Lady Warriors will face rival Lakeland High School on the road at 5:30 p.m. April 18.