By Chris Parker
Willows Springs softball returns seven starters and nine letter winners from last season’s 18-win team.
Seniors Madelyn Fair, Emma Roberts, Emma Spence and Allie Martin will be the team’s leaders.
“They know what’s expected of them and hold their teammates accountable,” Willow Springs head coach Ryan Bunch said.
Spence will be in the circle pitching. She was 7-2 with 53 strikeouts in 53 innings last season. Sophomore Khila Smith also will pitch after throwing 76 innings with 71 strikeouts last season. Junior Kaylee Pendergrass could also pitch.
Sophomore Sophie Jackson will handle the catching duties. She hit .469 with 20 RBI in her sophomore campaign.
Fair will be at first base. Second base could feature Khila Smith or Martin. Chloe Jones will slide over to shortstop from second base. Roberts will be at third base.
Fair hit .515 with 33 RBI and scored 23 runs last season. She was named First-Team All-SCA for her efforts.
The outfield will feature Madison Bay (junior), Karis Cochran (sophomore), Smith, Aleisha Shanks (junior) and Pendergrass could all see time in the outfield.
Competition for open spots is fierce after strong off-season improvements across the board.
“I don’t think I can pick a player or two that has impressed me the most,” Bunch said. “I think everyone has improved in one way or another and I believe that all of the girls worked hard during the off-season to improve.”
The offense and defense will be sound for Willow Springs, but the Bears must make good decisions on the bases.
“I think we have two strengths this year. Defensively I feel that we are fundamentally sound, and offensively we can put runs on the board. Last season we averaged 10.9 runs per game,” Bunch said. “We don’t have as much team speed as we have had in the past. I think running the bases will be key for us this season. Going first to third on a hit, little things like that on the base paths is where we need to improve.”
Willow Springs opens the season Mar. 18 at home against Dora.
“We want to work harder than everybody else,” Bunch said. “Work hard every day to get better. We want to compete for a conference and district title. Our overall team goal this year is to go to the final four.”
