With returning starters and a pair of power hitting freshmen coach Sarah Jones’ seventh season at the helm of Purcell Slow-pitch softball looks promising.

“We will have more power and athleticism this slow-pitch season than we have in a long time.,” Jones reports. “We gain a ton of experience but also confidence this season. We will have a powerful lineup, speed and knowledge.”

Returning starters include seniors Ella Resendiz at shortstop, Hannah Whitaker, who will pitch and play a variety of positions and Anika Raper in the outfield. Juniors returning in starter positions  include Mack McKay at second base and pitcher, Kaylin “KK” Vazquez in the outfield and sophomore outfielder Jasey Baker.

Prospects that will contribute to the 2024 club include sophomore Ava Sparks, who will see time in the infield and outfield, freshman Miaca Martinez at first base, Kendra Anderson who will play in the infield and outfield, Kami Renfro in the outfield and at catcher, Alexis Jurado in the outfield and at catcher and Chloe Morrow in the outfield.

“Ava is playing slow-pitch for the first time.” Jones reported. “Martinez brings a ton of power at the plate and Anderson brings consistent power at the plate. All of those players give us depth and versatility in the infield and outfield.”

Jones said her 2024 team needs to work on situational hitting.

“Our offense will be strong but finding ways to push people around and learn how to place the ball where we need it is going to be big for us this season,” the coach said.

“We have the talent, defense, offense and numbers to be extremely successful this season. The senior class is ready to continue what we did in the fall with the main goal to make it to state. We lost last season in the Regional final and we don’t want to feel that again. It is going to be a really great season and the girls are ready to take it on.”

Ethan Scott will be assisting Jones in the coaching department this season. He will be the assistant for both junior high and high school. Kailey Gamble, who is the high school fast-pitch assistant will be the head coach for the junior high, Jones reported.

“We are excited for the spring to officially kick off,” she confirmed.