By Chris Parker
Southwest softball will look to climb back above .500 with eight starters returning from last season’s 9-13 squad.
“The Lady Trojans as a group of girls is hardworking and I have no doubt will give 100% every practice and in every game,” Southwest head coach Emily Snyder said. “Additionally, I feel very blessed to be around and have these girls for a team this season. They embody such a character that is positive, respectful and most importantly girls that genuinely love the game of softball. These character traits are in my opinion what will lead to a great season and what has made this team of 2025 Lady Trojans so special.”
Kaleigh Tull (senior) and Jacee Durossette (sophomore) will be the pitchers.
Snyder on Tull: “Kaleigh Tull has the best attitude on the mound she has several great spins that are on consistently. However, what stands out to me is that Tull can be asked to accomplish a task, and she will accomplish it to the best of her abilities in a calm manner. It is very hard to see if Tull starts to sweat in a close game as she is so calm on the mound, which radiates to the rest of the team.”
Snyder on Durossette: “Jacee Durossette is an athlete who is so dedicated to this sport always wanting to understand how she can improve and excel at the game. Additionally, she has great spins and variations of pitches. However, Durossette has so much heart and dedication devoted to the team and so that means she will give her all on the mound and in the field. Durossette is a great leader and am very excited to see her excel even more during this spring season.”
Riley Flippo (senior) and Grace Swanepoel (sophomore) will handle catching duties.
Around the infield, look for Raeli Miles (senior), Kindred Durossette (junior), Brianna Hoover (junior), Addyson Payne (sophomore), Addison Cotton (senior), Gracie Swanepoel and Flippo.
The outfield lineup will feature a combination of Hoover, Rebecca Swanepoel (senior), Abigail Callison (junior), Addison Keates (senior) and Jacee Duorsette.
Seniors will lead the team.
“Each of these girls embody such devotion and dedication to the game,” Snyder said. “In the past three years of coaching they all have been to the hitting leagues, open fields and off- season training. Each of these girls embody such a positive attitude and personality that also radiates to their teammates and myself as well. With the girls’ dedication and positive attitude on and off the field, I have no doubts that they will lead the Lady Trojans to a very successful season.”
Southwest opens the season on Mar. 22 at the Cheri Nash Memorial Tournament hosted by Verona.
“The identity for the team has stayed and will continue to remain the same. To simply keep moving and grooving by doing the little things: communicating, having positive attitudes on and off the field and giving it all every single game no matter the outcome,” Snyder said. “Overall expectation is to continue to work hard. The girls understand that every game played this season will be one that will not go without hard work. With that being said, these girls I have no doubt will deliver their absolute best. Additionally, having such a large group of seniors. The expectation is to work hard every game and give it our all in every aspect of the game.”
