Burnsville starts to move on

The end of the 2011 softball season for Burnsville High School was not the kind that begs for a long offseason of recovering, recuperating or maybe playing another sport.

"It wasn't the best way to go out," senior shortstop Dani Wolk said. "We just tried to put it behind us. We tried to start over. Brand-new year. Brand-new season."

In 2010, the Blaze won the Class 3A state title with a 3-2 victory over North St. Paul. A strong nucleus, including the state's top pitcher, Kelsey Anderson, now at Winona State, returned last spring as strong favorites to repeat. The Blaze was denied another trip to North Mankato by conference rival Bloomington Jefferson, which eked out two consecutive 2-1 extra-inning victories to eliminate Burnsville for the Section 3 crown: A heart-breaking end to a still-proud season and team effort.

"The way the season ended last year was very bittersweet," assistant coach Kate Schwartz said. "The kids left everything they had on the field for those two gut-wrenching games against Jefferson, and that's all we can ask for."

But when it comes to erasing those memories, it's easier said than done.

"As coaches, we have moved on. But to be honest, the kids bring up those games weekly," Schwartz said.

Wolk acknowledged that it's on the minds of returning players. She also stressed the importance of new beginnings in a well-positioned program.

"Each year we graduate outstanding young women and each year we've been lucky to build with new outstanding young women who understand the tradition and goals of the program," Schwartz said.

The infield is solid with Wolk at shortstop, Abby Harazin at first base, Kelly Grove at third base and Meghan Threlkeld returning behind the plate. Second base has a number of players vying for the starting job.

"Defensively, these kids are perfectionists, and that attitude will pay off," Schwartz said. "They understand our expectations and they want the same for themselves."

Senior pitcher Abby Johnson has been looking strong in practice and scrimmages. Burnsville's lineup boasts power mixed with some speedy slappers, including Laura Nadeau, Haleigh Droege and Erica Belter.

The Blaze will have their hands full this season in the loaded South Suburban Conference. That's always expected, and Burnsville's always in the conversation. It's what fuels the team to be better.

As for the weekly reminders, Schwartz hears about last spring, that's OK.