With a roster dominated by underclass players, Kent School’s softball team is proving that age is just a number. Led by senior captain Izzy Bowler, the team has built a strong 4–2 record so far this season, fueled by perseverance, positivity, and a tight-knit team spirit.  

“Softball is a lot like baseball,” Bowler explained. “But the ball’s bigger, the field’s a little smaller, and we pitch underhand instead of overhand.” Despite the similarities, the mental demands of softball—where failure is frequent even for the best players—require resilience. It’s a quality Kent’s young team is quickly developing.  

Coach Lennon echoed the sentiment. “In terms of progress, it’s been exceptional,” he said. “We’re a very young group—mostly third- and fourth-formers—but we’ve seen marked improvement with every game.” With only one sixth-former and a few fifths, the team has faced the challenge of inexperience. “We have incredible athletes, but it just takes time to catch up to the speed of the game at this level,” Lennon added.  

Still, the results are promising. Standout moments include a comeback win over Cheshire Academy and a 2–0 pitchers’ duel victory against Miss Porter’s, both of which showcased the team’s grit and potential. Team chemistry has been just as crucial. “We’re really like one big happy family,” Bowler said. “No drama, no cliques—just 12 girls and our amazing manager, Veronica, working together.” Lennon agreed, crediting the team’s inclusive culture as a cornerstone of their program. “Everyone supports each other. That’s a big requirement of mine,” he said.  

As captain, Bowler leads by example. “Softball is mentally taxing. You’re going to fail more than you succeed,” she said. “It’s important for everyone to know that one bad game doesn’t define them.” Coach Lennon agreed: “Those lessons—how to overcome adversity, how to work with others—are what players will carry with them long after high school.”  

With their sights set on the NEPSAC playoffs, Kent hopes to continue a seven-year streak of postseason appearances. And with eight new recruits already committed to come to Kent next year, the program’s future looks bright. “This year is about this year,” Lennon noted, “and the foundation we’re laying now is something special.”