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2004 Season Outlook Head coach Sue Carpenter begins her fifth season at the helm of the Lady Jacket softball program with a core of veterans making up most of her 12-player roster. Four-year starting shortstop Ashley Smith is the lone senior along with seven juniors. Cedarville suffered their first losing season last year in four years under Carpenter, but she is cautiously optimistic about 2004. “I’m looking forward to the season and am excited about the potential our team has to be successful. Last season was disappointing, but our players are 100% behind what we’re doing and the attitude is all positive,” she commented. When asked about the unusually small roster of 12, Carpenter expressed an interesting outlook, “It is a concern when you think about the possibility of injuries, but the players are showing a willingness to work hard in the weight room and at practice, and the chemistry among the team is outstanding!”
There is no doubt the success of the Lady Jacket season will depend upon the pitching staff. Natalie Fox returns for her third season with the program as one of the best pitchers in Lady Jacket history. The right-handed hurler ranks second all-time in strikeouts (291), shutouts (7) and earned run average (1.62). Allie Smith is back for her sophomore season with improved confidence, maturity and strength. She recorded a 1-3 mark in 33.1 innings pitched last spring. “Our pitching will be important as we progress through the season. Natalie and Allie will push each other and that is good for both of them,” added Carpenter. “It is also a big help that Assistant Coach Jay Skrabacz is focused on developing them to reach their potential and to get better and stronger throughout the season.” Ashley Smith returns for her final season in what has been a stellar career. The 5-8 power hitter was a NCCAA All-America honorable mention, member of the NCCAA Midwest Region Team, and earned AMC honorable mention honors last spring. She is tied for the career lead in home runs with 7 and ranks second in career triples with 13.
Speed will be a potent weapon for the 2004 Lady Jackets as Smith, junior Ginger Keithley, and sophomore Jackie Greetham combined for 48 of the team’s 56 stolen bases last spring. Courtney Thayer anchors the duties behind the plate with Smith, center fielder Keithley and junior second baseman Tara Munson providing solid defense up the middle. Three other juniors will add experience and maturity to the lineup. Richelle Clem adds depth to the outfield as well as second base positions and could be called upon to give support to the pitching crew if needed. Katy Dellicarpini will assume the first base responsibilities after seeing limited action last season and Kailin Acheson will also give depth to outfield positions. Two newcomers also need to be ready to contribute right away. Rookie Courtney Brott has the early nod to patrol the third base position while sophomore transfer Erin DiMeolo provides capable backup as a catcher and outfielder. Carpenter summarized her thoughts about the upcoming campaign this way, “The Lord has taken care of us to this point and we are trusting Him for our success this season. We may be low in numbers but we’re big in heart!” The Jackets head to Fort Myers, Fla. during spring break to play 10 games in the Gene Cusic Classic. Nine home dates are on the schedule including the NCCAA Midwest Regional on April 23-24. | |||||||||||||||
