Nearly all of second-year head coach Nikki Herrin’s slow-pitch team is back from last season. Lost to graduation were Kaylee Madden, Allison Ryan and Emily Woody.
Last season they finished with a 14-16 record and were knocked out of the Regional tournament with losses to Dale and Colbert.
Returning seniors include Faith Brazell, Jordynn Debaets and Ashley Hayles. Juniors include Elizabeth Bunner, Addison Keeler and Brysten Shephard. Returning sophomores are Karsen Adams, Alyssa Hobson, Ava Stottlemyre, Lily Whitaker and Amanda Gannon.
New this season are freshmen Taelyn Ringwald, Addison Clagg, Dakota Martin, Audra Watts and Cylie Jones.
“We have lots of experience returning and that will help. Lots of the little things won’t have to be retaught,” Herrin said.
Though she does not have positions nailed down, Herrin said she’s pleased with their work as the season gets underway.
“This group is very coachable. They listen and play together as a team. That is definitely one of our strengths.”
She’s sure of one thing, though, Stottlemyre will see most of the time in the circle. Jones and Martin will also see some time pitching.
“Ava primarily picked up some pitching duties as we got into Districts and Regionals last year. She did well and that experience will be helpful as this season gets going,” Herrin said.
For Herrin, the outfield is a question mark.
“Nailing down our outfield is something that will take time and work. We lost a senior out there and we struggled some at right field, so I’d like to have that strengthened this season with senior leadership.
“We’re taking it one day at a time.”
The Lady Bulldogs were scrimmaging Fletcher on Monday.
They start their schedule with a two-game homestand with Luther on Friday and Santa Fe South on Monday.
“Luther is a team we played last year and we’re hoping for another win.
“They’ll set up their defense much like us, using their rover in different spots rather than as a static outfielder. It will be good for us to see that,” Herrin said.
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