The Mountain Grove Lady Panthers claimed the district title last year in their first full spring softball season. Now the team is ready to go after the championship once more.
The district champs shut out their competition in district play before losing to Clever in sectionals, ending their season with a 12-8 record. This year, the team wants to improve on that record.
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The Lady Panthers graduated their four-year starting catcher, Paige Lutes, who also hit .453 last season, and Nichole Fletcher, first baseman with a .327 on-base percentage. In spite of two big positions to fill, the team returns several noteworthy players.
Colbee Anderson, centerfielder, and Sammie Hutsell, shortstop, were each All-District and All-Region standouts, and both return for their senior season. Pitcher Laci Collins handled the district shutout last season, and the junior will return to the mound.
Other experienced players joining her are Allison Calvillo at left field, Makenzie Berry at second, Avery Lee at third, and Savannah Smith at right field. Abby Parker and Alexis Fuwell will also help anchor the Lady Panthers.
New faces to the Mountain Grove squad include junior Ashton Albrecht, a move-in from Utah, and freshman Irelin Bramwell. Both will be battling for the first base position. Kadee Shepherd, freshman, will join the pitching staff.
In her second season as head coach, Lori Hyde thinks her team is full of potential. “Their overall team experience together, camaraderie, and knowing one another’s abilities are their strengths,” she said. “Our goals are to be better next year than we were the last, and to improve overall this season. We want to take it steps further into the state playoffs.”
Coach Hyde also credits the experience of her assistant coach, Matt Anderson, to the team’s success. She noted his addition of defensive strategy and the work he puts in with the outfielders each day. The coaches are each Mountain Grove alumni as well. “We both bleed maroon and gray,” she said.
The Lady Panthers open their season at home against Hartville on March 28.
