By Pat Dailey (For OzarkSportsZone.com)
Ava was dealt a loss even before practices got under way, but coach Rex Sawyer is still optimistic the Lady Bears can continue their winning ways.
“We hope to pick up right where we left off,” Sawyer said, alluding to Ava’s 16-8 record a year ago in what was the Lady Bears’ inaugural season playing in the spring.
“Going from hot to cooler weather was an adjustment, but they were able to make the switch quickly,” he added.
Sawyer was planning on the left side of his infield to return intact and be a strength. But shortstop Olivia Gastineau suffered an ACL tear this winter. She was an All-South Central Association First-Team pick and a Class 2 All-State Second Team selection as a junior.
Sawyer is counting on Gastineau to still make an impact from a leadership perspective and isn’t ruling out the fact she may eventually receive clearance to play.
“Olivia will be a tough act to follow at the shortstop position,” Sawyer said. “But we look (for) her to continue helping her teammates learn and grow as players with her experience. And who knows, maybe we will see a comeback.”
With Gastineau’s injury, Keeley Akers’ value at third base has grown twofold.
“Keeley will help hold down the left side of the field,” Sawyer said. “She is quick and strong on the field and at the plate. She will be looked upon to help lead the Lady Bears with her experience and knowledge of the game.”
Sara Mendel will assume Ava’s pitching duties on a full-time basis, after primarily being a first baseman and seeing spot starts as a pitcher and being used in relief the past three seasons.
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“Pitching is our question mark,” Sawyer said. “Sara has experience in the circle.”
Sophomore Paris Henry, junior Riley Welch and freshman Hunter Strunk will also pitch.
Replacing Mendel at first base will be Lillie Honeycutt. Dailyn Stanifer and Paris Henry will fill middle infield roles.
Senior catcher Mackinley Goss provides a sure-handed target behind the plate.
“She is good at receiving and blocking the ball,” Sawyer said.
The outfield has a captain in senior center field Lexie Gastineau. Like Olivia, Lexie earned All-SCA First Team and Class 2 All-State Second-Team honors last season.
“Lexie is one of our leaders and anchors the outfield,” Sawyer said. “Her speed and work ethic are a major strength.”
Kaelyn Stillings returns as a starter in right field. Contending for playing time in left field are senior Reagan Stillings and sophomore Hannah Forrest.
Sawyer values the experience he can call upon.
“Many of our returning players have started since they were freshmen,” he said.
Ava will take part in a jamboree March 15 at Forsyth with the host Lady Panthers and Hollister. The Lady Bears open at home versus Clever on March 20.
