By ELI LUTGENS
Publisher/Editor
NRHEG High School softball coach Wendy Schultz unknowingly notched her 300th career victory Thursday night in New Richland when the Panthers defeated JWP 14-4 in six innings. Waiting to celebrate the milestone with her were former players, alumni, friends, family, players and fans.
“It's super special,” Schultz said. “I can't say thank you enough. It's so special that so many people come back to show their support. We have such a wonderful community and wonderful kids.”
Schultz, of course, had no idea she was about to earn her 300th victory.
“I honestly did not know,” Schultz continued. “I never really look out into the stands. I just kind of focused on the game and what's going on.”
Schultz started coaching in 1992, when she was Wendy Lerberg, hired by then athletic director Ted Pelzl. The superintendent at the time was Rick Lorenz. This season is Schultz's last season coaching, her 25th over the past three decades.
“I don’t think you think of the years as they go by,” Schultz said. “All of the years have been enjoyable seasons. The kids are such hard workers. It’s a good culture to be in and it’s because of the kids. And you don't get 300 wins by not having dedicated kids. It's all about the kids. That's who wins the games. We've had a lot of great kids, hard workers, who never give up.”