Lone senior reflects on her time on the field

As the 2016-17 season heads toward its end, MVNU’s softball team and coaches are sad to see their lone senior, Courtney Rengert, move to the next chapter of her life.

Finishing up her fourth and final season as a Lady Cougar, Rengert said it is hard to leave her teammates and the program that has helped shape her life.

“MVNU softball has helped shape my relationship with Christ by having team devotions, worship nights in Florida, and investing in my teammates,” Rengert said. “The program has taught me how hard work and sacrifice can go a long way on the field and in your studies.”

Head Coach Jeana Howald said Rengert has embodied what a Lady Cougar softball player should and needs to be every single day.

“She has led by example,” Howald said. “She shows true sportsmanship. When an opponent goes to the ground, she is there to extend a hand to help her up, and she is sincere in doing so. Courtney is an encourager, cheerleader, and sees the best in others.”

Rengert’s favorite memory on the field came last spring in her junior year, when MVNU swept a doubleheader at home against Indiana Wesleyan University, sending an amazing energy and excitement through the team.

This year at the plate, Rengert has recorded a .267 batting average, with 17 RBI and 18 runs scored.

She has taken the field in 39 games and holds a .933 fielding percentage on 164 chances.

As Rengert looks toward the next phase of her life, she leaves behind advice for her teammates and sisters.

“There will be some days when you are wondering if all the hard work and extra time you put in is worth it,” Rengert said. “Trust me, it is. Pretty soon, your time will come to take a step back from something that has always been a part of your life, and you will look back and see how blessed you were to be given the opportunity to play softball for MVNU.”

She reminds her teammates to “never take a day for granted and enjoy every chance you get because time goes by faster than you think. Always remember to support one another and be a friend to those around you.”