By Chris Parker
Mountain Grove softball will have a new look this year with just three returning starters
“We will be young this year, but are very excited about our incoming freshman,” Mountain Grove head coach Lori Hyde said. “Last year was the first year we have had a junior high softball program and are anxious to see the positive impact Coach Coffman and Coach Massey are sending us.”
Senior Taylor Hicks, junior Landy Golden and sophomore Stella Benson are the team’s three returning starters.
In the circle pitching will be Payton O’Connor (sophomore), Chloe Slagle (sophomore), Hadley Driskell (freshman) and Sadie Schober (freshman).
Positional versatility will be a strength for Mountain Grove.
“Due to having strong athletes we have a lot of opportunities to play with different lineups,” Hyde said. “We don’t feel that we have any set-in-stone positions. Almost every one of our players can play two or three different positions. This is a really exciting opportunity for our young athletes.”
With a young team, it will be a leadership by committee approach.
“We expect all of our girls to step up to the plate,” Hyde said. “They all bring distinct qualities to the team, motivation, communication, experience, athleticism, game knowledge, and perseverance.”
Billings opens the season on Mar. 18 at home against Miller.
“Our overall expectation for this season is to start building a strong team with talented athletes that will be able to play together for the next 3-4 years,” Hyde said. “We are excited to see the growth in their skills and in the knowledge of the game. Our expectations are high, with work and dedication we believe that this team will have success and be a lot of fun to watch.”
