Back on the diamond

Second year head coach Charles Durrence has high expectations for his Lady Bulldogs going into the 2021 fast-pitch season.

Last season his team went 20-9 and was bounced from Districts by Elmore City.

“This team has been working hard this summer. We’ve had two-a-days and workouts three times a week. They are stronger and faster and I think that will contribute to their success this season,” Durrence said.

Several Lady Bulldogs who have seen playing time are back for fast-pitch.

As the season gets underway, Durrence plans to alternate between sophomore Faith Brazell and senior Haiden Parker in the circle and at second.

Emily Woody will see time behind the plate while Mayce Trejo is at first, Kaylee Madden is at short and Daliyah Fuentes is at third.

Haylee Durrence is a fixture in the outfield. Several other Lady Bulldogs will be rotating in at left and right field while Coach Durrence settles on his best lineup.

Durrence expects freshman Addison Keeler to contribute for Wayne.

Also, the coach was pleased with how senior McKenzie Fisher has used summer workouts to improve.

“McKenzie is fast and throughout the summer she’s gotten better,” Durrence said.

With a packed schedule, Durrence and his team say the key to success is making the routine plays and continually doing the little things.

“We definitely plan to win at least 20 games and go far in the post-season. This team has it in them, but we have to continue to execute throughout the season,” Durrence said.

Last week Wayne was in Lexington for the Lexington Festival. They played six games and Durrence was pleased with his team.

“We got lots of reps and I saw a lot of good things from my team. I’m happy with how they played.”

Lost to graduation were Allie Walck and Kamryn Moss, both of whom were heavy contributors during their years at Wayne.