Dokkebakken takes reins of BHS softball

Mackenzie Dokkebakken was hired as the new Benson softball coach this past fall. She replaces Barb Schwarz, who retired last spring.

Schwarz led the Braves for six seasons, accumulating a 44-74 record, including one winning season in 2021 when Benson went 18-8.

Dokkebakken is ready to take over where Schwarz left off as she has been coaching junior high softball since 2020.

“We lose two multi-year starters in key positions at catcher and pitcher. We’ll be young in replacing those positions, but we also bring back multiple starters from last year,” said the 2012 Benson graduate, who was a three-year starter for the Braves on the softball field.

After graduating from Benson High School, Dokkebakken went on to start for four years at Concordia Moorhead.

“I’m very honest and open with the players,” Dokkebakken said of her coaching style. “I want them to be the best softball players but also to be the best people they can be. My relationship with the players is beyond the softball field. I want them to be successful in all aspects of their lives.”

She is a familiar around the Benson School District as she has coached volleyball for three years and works as the accountant for the district. She’s excited for this spring – whenever it decides to show up!

“I’ve got a great bunch of girls that are passionate about softball. These girls are all-in,” Dokkebakken said. “We recently went over goals for this season and the girls have great aspirations. The coaching staff and the players are going to work together to achieve these goals!”