Dragons young, but talented

Purcell’s Dragons are going to be young but extremely talented for the 2021 season that begins Monday with a 5 p.m. date at home with the Davis Wolves.

Sarah Jones, who is 135 and 97 overall, begins here eighth year at the helm of the Dragons.

Graduation last spring took a big bite out of roster taking the likes of Kyleigh Smedley, Khia Tyler, Kinley Croslin, Hannah Buchanan, Missy Nimsey, Brook Fleming, Karson Jennings, Kaylee Evans and Vicky Johnson.

But the future looks bright with a team that is very versatile, speedy and is packed with depth.

Jones said she has four pitchers on this year’s squad that brings a lot of depth to that position.

In the circle will be sophomore Kailynn Helton and a trio of freshmen including Ella Resendiz, Coty Sessions and Hannah Whitaker.

“That’s the most pitchers I’ve had on a single team,” Jones said. “We just have to not let the game know our age. By that I mean we need to learn how to overcome adversity and fight through it.”

Jones said her goal for the 2021 squad is to get one percent better every day.

“Since we are so young (nine of the 20 players on the roster are freshmen), we need to learn from each game no matter what,” the coach said.

Behind the plate to catch the young pitching staff will be junior Lauren Holmes and a pair of freshmen in Kyleigh Green and Ella Resendiz.

Jones reports she has a bevy of girls that can play either in the outfield or infield.

Those players in the outfield that will see a lot of playing time are Payci Constant, Brynley Jennings, Avery McWhirter, Madison Veach, Kelly Anderson and Kailynn Helton.

Jones is counting on Haileigh Smith, Anika Raper and Coty Sessions in the infield.

She also has a number of players that can play either in the outfield or infield including Tinley Winters, Hadleigh Harp, Kenna Esparza, KK Eck, Savannah Edwards and Ella Resendiz.

“We will be young but very fast and the most important thing I’ve seen out of this group is how competitive they are,” Jones said.

“They come to practice at 6 a.m. without complaining and have worked every day. They have accepted their roles and have done a great job of learning,” Jones said.

Jones gave a big shout out to the squad’s strength and conditioning coach Cole Harwell.

“He has prepared the girls for the season. The girls have bought into his program and we couldn’t be more thankful.

“I’m excited about the upcoming season and am pleased to have brought Kenzie Cunnis back into coaching,” Jones said.

The Dragons will play in the varsity-alumni game Saturday at 11 a.m. where around 20 alumni have signed up to play.