By Chris Parker
Seymour softball is poised for a big season with all of its starters returning from last season.
“Our strength is our experience,” Seymour head coach Payton Hosiner said. “The bulk of this team are seniors and they have been playing together for some time now. This team has the ability to cover a lot of ground both on the infield and in the outfield.”
Katelynn Smith and Cameron Hanger will be two senior leaders according to Hosiner.
Hosiner on Smith: “Senior Katelynn Smith, who leads off and plays centerfield for us, leads by example, when something needs done, she is the first one to it. Katelynn works hard and holds her team accountable. She will also pitch for us when needed.”
Hosiner on Hanger: “Senior Cameron Hanger, batting .400 last spring, is hard working and is always doing the right thing. Cameron is our cleanup hitter and plays outfield. She will also play first base when needed.”
While seniors lead the way, it will be freshman Chloe Johnson stepping into the center circle pitching many key innings. She attacks the strike zone with good velocity.
Senior Olivia Kyle, who is committed to play at North Ark next year, will be the catcher. She hit .438 last spring. Freshman Elliott Hanger will also be in the mix for time at catcher as a backup.
The lineup around the infield will feature Haydon Gage (junior third baseman), Nichole Harris (senior infielder), Shea Peters (senior first baseman), Jadyn Johnson (senior shortstop) along with freshmen Elianna Wallace and Laikan Newman.
Smith and Hanger will be in centerfield and left field with right field having multiple players competing for time with senior Abi Harper and junior Kaylynne Bull.
Overall, depth will be stronger for Seymour this season.
“Last spring we had low numbers at many games due to several injuries and conflicting school events, and we are excited to have several incoming freshmen to have more options,” Hosiner said. “We have a lot of players ready to step up and fill big roles when needed such as Junior Sinikka Goldstein and Sophomores Addie Hayes, Dixie Skiles, and Mali Koop. Our subs are very hardworking players, and they push the varsity to be the best they can be.”
Seymour opens the season on Mar. 19 at Blue Eye.
“Just like most teams we want to be .500 and win the conference title,” Hosiner said. “Our conference competitors are Norwood, Hartville, Fordland, Mansfield, Sparta, Conway, and Gainesville. We would also like to make it to the district championship game. We always want to outwork our opposing teams.”
