By Chris Parker
Expectations are high for the Spokane softball team with all but two starters returning from last season’s team that finished 9-8 overall.
A group of six seniors will led the charge including: Paige Tate (pitcher), Jordyn Rollings (catcher), Micayla McClure (shortstop), Brooke Geiger (outfield), Chesney Claybrook and Anna Maples.
“I have six great seniors this season that will all contribute to leadership whether emotionally talking to teammates, encouraging and rallying the team together, or leading by example. I’m confident in the leaders we have,” Spokane softball coach Marlana Byrne said. “Paige Tate and Micayla McClure will be strong leaders on the infield. Brooke Geiger will take the lead in the outfield. I expect Jordyn Rollings to step up as the eye of the entire field to lead and communicate to the girls during play. They will all give their best, day in and day out, especially during those challenging games, and earn the respect of their teammates.”
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Tate and Geiger both earned second-team all-conference honors last season.
Brooke Martin (junior first base), Maddi Bonzer (junior second base), Raylen Wallace (sophomore left field) and Melina Stevens (sophomore) all return as well. Wallace earned honorable mention all-conference honors as a freshman.
Byrne will look for her team to be more consistent this year.
“I need the girls to be consistent in their hitting, going to the plate and getting a base hit every single time. Home runs are great and we definitely will take them when they happen, but a base hit wins games. The girls need to be in a position to make the best defensive play possible every time,” Byrne said.
Spokane will open the season on Mar. 23 at home against Niangua.
