Jason Nichols steps up from 10 years of assistant coaching to become the new head coach of Vikings Softball for 2014.

After graduating the league’s most valuable player and a top pitcher last year, Nichols does not consider this a rebuilding year, but acknowledges the need to fill a few key positions to maintain the consistent postseason success the team has maintained.

Despite only 12 to 14 players this year, the Vikings benefit from a talented group of seasoned seniors that will lead the team that may include some eighth graders. Nichols’ goal for the season is to continue the team’s positive direction on and off the field.

“I want to keep the team’s success going, the positive attitude, team camaraderie, community involvement and, of course, make it to state,” he said.

The team members are Caitlin Fowler, Alenna Garcia, Bethany Hansen, Hailey Klein, Joanne Mietzner, Katy Minnis, Emma Minnis, Jess Nichols, Emily Nichols, Bella Nigretto, Kilee Rogers, Shelbi Rogers, Alicia Susol and Emily Toombs.