Marist softball is serious about winning games, but also about having fun while doing it.
Before their 12-1, five-inning win against Joliet Catholic on April 23, the RedHawks were dancing to the song “From Now On” from the movie “The Greatest Showman”.
“It’s a very fun group,” senior slugger Gabi Novickas said, “It’s a way to keep it light and fun and the dancing has become a bit of a Marist tradition.”
Novickas had a game-high three hits, inclding a double and a home run, and scored two runs against the Angels.
Marist coach Colleen Phelan can go on for days about Novickas’ hitting ability, but will make sure to stop and recognize her defense as well.
“She’s an outstanding hitter,” Phalen said. “She works very, very hard on her craft. She is disciplined and extremely talented. Everyone knows her hitting, but I think she’s equally strong defensively. She holds that side down.”
The senior third baseman has been working hard at improving her fielding skills. Before coming to Marist, she mainly played first base for the Beverly Bandits travel team.
“I feel like I have it down a little bit,” Novickas said. “I am getting in a groove.”
Eight RedHawks had a hit and a run scored in the win. Senior center fielder Breanna Hanik had a home run and two runs batted in.
During the 2023 Class 4A state title run, Novickas worked a lot with then-seniors Eileen Donahue and Maia Pietrzak.
“They really took me under her wing, especially Maia since she played shortstop,” Novickas said. “She taught me how to own third base and make sure I have enough range and how to field the ball properly.”
Meanwhile, Novickas credits Donahue, who played first base, for being a morale booster when it came to her fielding.
Much like her previous teammates, Novickas is providing her younger teammates guidance on and off the field.
“She really helps me stay calm and collected,” RedHawks sophomore shortstop Mary Fortner said. “She’s always there to pick me up and show me the steps or moves that I need to fix. She’s a great leader.”
Outside of her teammate and coaches, it was Novickas’ dad who contributed to her growth and success on the diamond. When she wanted batting practice, he would say without hesitation, “Let’s go hit.”
“He’s always ready,” Novickas said. “He’s super supportive. I don’t think he’s ever said no to going to the field whether it was eight in the morning or seven at night.”
The hardwork has paid off because come the fall, Novickas will be heading to the University of Georgia and be playing for their softball team.
Her dad, Ray, played baseball and football at St. Rita and know what comes with being an athlete. He make sure to help improve her softball skills but uplift her spirit when needed.
“He calms me down,” Novickas said. “If I am in a slump or have a mechanical issue, I try to not get too low in it. He reminds me that it’s just a game and he still loves me anyway.”
Novickas and her teammates may look like they are a carefree bunch but they mean business.
They have won 10 straight games entering the final days of April and are 18-1 overall. Also, over the last three seasons, they have been Class 4A runners-up twice and won a title in 2023.
“I like to bet she wants to end with the championship,” Phelan said.