When the Pella Christian Softball team returns to their first practice for the 2016 season, they’ll have to do so without a pair of longtime starters and cornerstones of the program.

Tessa Howerzyl and Abby Pleima have graduated. Head Coach Karen Harrill says Howerzyl was one of the most respected players she’s ever seen on a high school field.

“She’s phenomenal, I’ve had umpires left and right this year come up to me and say how much they thoroughly enjoy umpiring behind Tessa Howerzyl,” Harrill says.

Pleima battled a leg injury during the latter part of the season, and Harrill says she was proud of how Abby tried to fight through it in their final game.

“She’s kind of our sunshine, she had an injury in the last couple of weeks,” Harrill says. “She gives it all.”

Harrill says she’ll miss the two for their contributions, but she looks forward to a big group of returning players on next year’s team.