GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) — For Kelsey Bobeldyk, playing ball is a family tradition. Now, she’s bringing that legacy to the Ottawa Hills softball program as she works to rebuild a winning culture for the Bengals.
Bobeldyk grew up learning the game from her father, who was once coached by his own dad. Today, that tradition has come full circle. As she leads Ottawa Hills, her father is back in the dugout alongside her, helping guide and inspire the next generation of players.
"I started teaching at Ottawa last year," she explained. "I noticed that the position was there and it kind of like, 'Oh is this on purpose?'"
She immediately got to work last season building a team, visiting multiple GRPS high schools to connect with scholars and generate interest.
"We're trying to make this sport super accessible for people," she explained. "Once we have the fundamentals in check, then that's when we'll be able to start making those cool plays on the field."
Now in her second year, she believes the team is ready to show real progress.
"I'm really proud of our team," she said. "We've been able to achieve a lot."
You're invited to come cheer on the Bengals this spring at Marti Beckering Field, which also features a new scoreboard unveiled last fall.
"We're really loud. We cheer a lot. We're always picking each other up."
