2002 SOFTBALL

After a 2001 season that was hampered by injuries, the Lady Baron's are this season looking for a fresh start.

The Lady Barons finished the 2001 campaign with a record of 15-29 (2-16).

"I am exciting with the new additions, and I am anticipating a much improved squad this season," said Lady Barons coach Jill Poole.

Coach Jill Poole will begin her tenth year as head coach with a team that returns eight players from the 2001 squad, which are: Sophomores Ali Furgala, Melissa Godbee, Kelly Hamilton, Aislyn MacLeod, Jaime Murrant, Tanya Panton, and juniors Lyndsay Gomme and Alissa Vogt.

Furgala is welcomed back at second and in the lead-off spot of the lineup.

"Ali will be a tremendous asset to this ball club," Poole said. "She excels at hitting in the one spot. What makes Ali so dangerous is that she has power."

Panton will play shortstop. She last year led in several offensive categories.

"Tanya has a work ethic that is on such a high level," she said. "Due to this, I expect her to be our team leader."

Field commander duties will be handled by Vogt, who will call the signals from behind the plate.

"Alissa is a talented, dominating player," said Poole. "She hits well and plays her position like no other."

The corners of the infield will be occupied by Murrant at third and newcomer Kendra Sewell at first.

"Jaime is a clutch hitter and will again be hitting in the middle of the lineup," Poole said.

New faces that will complete the starting lineup are: Freshmen Cassie Cook, Amanda San U, Brandi Brunson, and juniors Nicole Behning and Sewell.

The pitching staff is more experienced and will be led by Kelly Hamilton (6-13, 1.58 ERA) and Lyndsay Gomme (6-11, 1.80 ERA). Hamilton was chosen to the 2001 All-Conference team as a pitcher.

"Both ladies pitched well last season," Poole said, "but defense prevented them from earning more wins."

Recruiting was dedicated to getting experience junior college players for defensive purposes.

A speedy outfield, which covers a tremendous amount of ground, will complement the Lady Barons' strong infield.

Two junior college transfers, Behning and Brunson, are welcomed to the outfield.

"Both ladies posses powerful throwing arms and will add strength to the batting order," said Poole.

Godbee is coming off an injury and will see time in the outfield.

"We are hoping that Melissa can return healthy," she said, "since her speed will be needed on offense and defense."

Two players, MacLeod and Cook, will be used in utility roles. MacLeod will see considerable time on the mound and at first. Cook will stir up dust in the infield, and will cover some ground in the outfield.

"Aislyn and Cassie have the talent and knowledge to play several positions, and they will be called on to play where needed," she said.

"I am excited about the 2002 season," said Poole. "These ladies have a strong work ethic and a competitive desire. Not only do they have a solid defensive game, but the offensive side will be just as solid."