Head softball coach Nikki Herrin will start her second year with Wayne when the Lady Bulldogs hit the diamond this week.

Their first game was Monday hosting Empire.

“I’m excited about the chance to work with the team and impart any kind of knowledge whether it’s softball or life in general.

“We have a team full of great contributors and even though we have several girls back, this is a brand new team,” Herrin said.

Lost to graduation were Kaylee Madden, Emily Woody, Allison Ryan and Kylee Gish.

In 2022 Wayne finished their season with a 14-11 record after being knocked out of the postseason by Vanoss.

As Herrin said, several girls who have contributed to the team are back this season.

Seniors include Faith Brazell, Jordynn Debaets and Ashley Hayles.

Brazell will be Wayne’s go-to pitcher.

“Faith has been our girl in the circle and she brings a lot of leadership to this team.”

Debaets is the center fielder and, according to Herrin, has a big stick in the Wayne lineup.

“Jordynn has been a helper and she’s someone we can count on to keep the momentum going for us from the dugout.”

Juniors include Brysten Shephard, Addison Keeler and Elizabeth Bunner. Sophomores on the team are Karsen Adams, Alyssa Hobson, Lily Whitaker and Ava Stottlemyre.

“All of those girls have started games for us so their experience will be helpful,” Herrin said.

Hobson was mentioned in particular due to her grit on the field.

“Alyssa is a gritty player; she brings it and will run through a brick wall for me.”

Rounding out the team are six freshmen: Audra Watts, Taelyn Ringwald, Dakota Martin, Addison Clagg, Cylie Jones and Kimber Reaves.

“Taelyn will get playing time. She’s seen time at short stop, she could catch or even play third. She’s a utility player and you love to have those,” Herrin said.

Watts, who the coach described as very athletic and coachable, will probably see time at third base. And, Jones could be plugged in across the field.

“Cylie brings a positive attitude every day.”

Martin and Reaves could be plugged into the batting order as the season goes on and Clagg will see time in the circle as Brazell needs rest, according to Herrin.

Herrin also mentioned her assistant coach, Megan Moreno.

“I couldn’t do this job with out Megan. She’s a huge help and a huge support I didn’t know that I needed.”

Wayne’s first tournament will be September 10-12 at Central.

“I’m not the kind of coach who circles games or has teams to watch out for. All we can do is show up and play our game and that puts us in a good spot most of the time.

“I’m excited about this season and the team that we have. We have lots of great contributors.”