Courtesy Photo The Alpena High School softball team poses for a photo. The Wildcats are focused on team and individual growth this season.

ALPENA — The 2025 Alpena High School Wildcat softball team is entering the season with a clear focus: work hard, compete with purpose, and improve every single day. Continuing strong work ethic and team-first mentality, the Wildcats plan to embrace challenges and strive for excellence in every facet of the game.

Led by head coach Paul Marwede, Alpena is taking a day-by-day approach — working to grow both individually and as a unit.

“Our team goals are centered around getting better each day,” Marwede said. “We approach every game with intensity and the drive to win.”

Practices are designed to reflect that philosophy, blending individual skill development with team-focused drills.

According to Marwede, the Wildcats split their daily sessions into individual and team segments, allowing players to develop physical toughness while sharpening the mental edge needed to compete.

“In both settings, having the players and team strive to improve mentally and physically will result in a better performance on game day,” he said.

With a mix of seasoned leadership and promising newcomers, Alpena’s roster brings both experience and fresh energy to the field. And they’re not shying away from tough competition.

“We scheduled four quality opponents to start the season, and currently are 2-4,” Marwede shared. “Playing strong competition will only make us better.”

The Wildcats’ schedule is packed with doubleheaders, and the team continues to adapt to challenges, including shifting weather. This week’s home game against Rogers City, originally set for Tuesday, April 15, has been moved to Wednesday, April 16 at 4 p.m. due to the forecast.

As the season unfolds, the Wildcats will continue to bring their signature intensity to every matchup, fueled by a passion for the game and a commitment to representing Alpena High School with pride.