Thursday, October 1, 2026
After struggling to score runs during last year’s 5-11 finish, West Hempstead softball coach Chris Van Kovics wants to put more pressure on defenses with an aggressive approach.
“We have to move runners over by stealing and bunting, and get more clutch hits,” Van Kovics said. “We were in almost every game last season, but our record was disappointing because we had problems on offense.”
The Rams came out of the gate swinging and earned a 14-1 victory over Elmont in the Conference ABC-VI opener on March 25. Sophomore Lisa Nappi went 4-for-4, drove in five runs and scored four times, and sophomore Paige Bettineschi cracked a two-run homer to lead the outburst. Sophomore Lauren Boehm, one of four pitchers expected to work innings this spring, picked up the win.
“It all comes down to consistency,” Van Kovics said. “We’re a young team, but I think we’ll challenge for the conference [title].”
Senior catcher Michelle Zur has been working with pitchers Bettineschi, Boehm, Lauren Bonheur and Lucia Biscardi since the middle of January and plays a key role in the defense as well as the offense. “Michelle’s catching skills are improved and she knows how to call a game,” Van Kovics said. “Offensively, she’s fast and smart and can hit from both sides of the plate.”
Zur, the leadoff or No. 2 hitter, will get a break from working behind the plate from time to time, switching positions with Nappi (center field), according to Van Kovics. Nappi, who played at the JV level in 2009, drove the ball into gaps in scrimmages and the opener. “Lisa’s been hitting the ball hard to all fields,” Van Kovics said.
The coach is unsure how the pitching situation will develop, but likes the idea of four viable options following the graduation of two-year starter Jenny Johansen. Bettineschi and Boehm got a taste of varsity action last season, and Bonheur and Biscardi, both juniors, are ready to contribute. “The biggest thing I’ve been telling the pitchers is I’m looking for a first-pitch strike,” Van Kovics said. “We’re not going to strike out the side every inning, but being down in the count changes a batter’s mentality.”
The right side of the infield is young and talented. Sophomore Danielle Bolognini returns as the starting shortstop and looks to pick up where she left off, while sophomore Noreen White assumes the job at third base. Bolognini may also share time at second with junior Kelley McDonald, who plays a variety of positions including shortstop and outfield. Senior Casey Lycon and junior Santina Nikolaidis are both solid at first base, and the latter could fill a corner outfield spot along with senior Brittany Balcarcel.
“When we’re in the field, we have to avoid big innings,” Van Kovics said.
Conference ABC-VI is comprised of West Hempstead, Elmont, Malverne, Great Neck North, Westbury and Roosevelt.
