By Chris Parker
Parkview softball has an experienced group of players returning who are looking to help the Lady Vikings program stack more wins this season.
“Our biggest strength this year is that we have nine returning players with experience,” Parkview head coach Ted Orcutt said. “We need to consistently put the ball in play and make things happen on offense. We will also need to be sure to stay composed and play solid defense.”
The returning players are Kae Cole (junior), Karah Heath (junior), Sophie Hardee (junior), Mack Shmuck (sophomore), Annie Kral (sophomore), Carly Walker (sophomore), Kenzie Wright (senior), Vanessa Oesterreich (sophomore), Sydney Smith (junior) and Aaliyah Cowden (senior).
Kral and Cole will be the pitchers.
“Sophomore Annie Kral was our pitcher last year and is poised to be the main starting pitcher again this year,” Orcutt said. “Junior Kae Cole has worked hard in the offseason to develop her abilities as a pitcher as well and looks to contribute in the circle as well.”
Shmuck, Hardee and Wright are looking for time behind the plate catching.
Cole and Walker will be on the left side of the infield at third base and shortstop, respectively.
Heath and Smith both have experience in the outfield and will likely see time out there.
Parkview opens the season on Sept. 4 at home against Wheatland.
“With our returning starting pitcher and the addition of another arm in the circle, we are looking to compete against more teams,” Orcutt said. “Overall, our main goal is to play the game one pitch at a time and let the scoreboard take care of itself.”
