Mike Inglett couldn’t have asked for a better start as a first-year head coach.

Inglett has the Chouteau softball program clicking on all cylinders as the Wildcats have won 16 of their first 17 games. 

It’s been all about team unity for a group who won its first 12 games to start the season and is unbeaten at 4-0 in District 2A-14 games.

“Key to the great start is all about how these ladies respond to each other as teammates, play together and always wanting to get better, and at the same time overcoming adversity,” Inglett said. “Seems like we have different girls impacting each game for us. We like to look at it that not just one or two individuals stick out. We win and learn together as one.”

The lone loss came in a 7-3 setback to Chelsea to close play in August. The Wildcats have since won four straight leading into Thursday home games against Vinita and Claremore-Sequoyah.

If there’s one area Chouteau can be better it’s offensively, according to Inglett.

“Moving forward we can still be better at the plate. We have had some games where we struggled and tried to make adjustments,” he said. “We continue to better ourselves and be more patient at the plate.”

Experience has played a big part in the success. The Wildcats have six seniors that each play a role, along with some underclassmen.

“Really no big surprises, these girls all work together as one. They all stand out in some way during the games,” Inglett said. “This is a veteran team. We have six seniors and they all contribute in some way. We also have three sophomores and a freshman that contribute daily for this team.”

Chouteau’s last three wins have each come via shutout. The Wildcats defeated Porter, 15-0, followed with a 12-0 win over Liberty, and blanked Caney Valley, 2-0. They started their four-game win streak with a 14-4 victory over Ketchum.