After a rough 2006 season, the Oxford Varsity softball team is ready to make a 180 and come out on top this year.
Coach Sue Roeher said the problem with last season was that the girls were focusing too hard on actually hitting the ball instead of putting it into a good play.
‘We just need to play well all the time and be more consistent defensively,? she said.
The team of 12 is ripe with rookie and experienced players, as well as a former rival team member.
Roeher said she’s looking to the three seniors on her team, Amanda Jolly, Sarah Mersino, and Danielle Bizzotto, to use their experience to bring the team together for some wins.
‘Sarah will be our number one pitcher, Amanda has the ability to play multiple positions and Danielle will be a leader by example because she has such a good work ethic,? the coach said.
The Wildcats have six juniors on the team, including third baseman Lauren LaCroix, catcher Kelsey Oliver, second baseman Sarah Paszko and outfielder Nicole Laidlaw. New first-year varsity juniors are outfielders Jennifer Smillie and Breanna May.
Newcomer sophomore outfielder Kylie Bowles transfered to Oxford from Waterford Mott, one of the team’s rivals.
Freshman Allie Laidlaw and Corinne Luxton will play short-stop and pitcher, respectively.
Coach Roeher said the teams Oxford is trying to beat are Fenton, who finished in the final four last season, and Lapeer West, who has a pitcher who throws at least 60 mph. The Wildcats take on Waterford Kettering at home on Thursday at 4:30 p.m.