BY KYLE TROUTMAN ktroutman@cassville-democrat.com

After falling to Purdy by a single run, 10-9, in last year’s district semifinals, the senior-heavy Exeter softball team is hoping to make a push for postseason success this go around.

Ashley Fly, Exeter softball coach, said seven varsity starters return this season, plus four lettewinners.

“All three of our pitchers will play a key role in our success this season,” Fly said. “Senior Dawnee Sorensen has been on the mound for us the last two seasons. Some of her pitches have a natural drop that keeps batters off balance. She has pitched some big games for us and will continue to be a leader on the mound. Junior Zeanndrea Brown, has been on the mound for us the last two seasons. She has a variety of pitches that keep batters off balance.

“Sophomore Lily Stevenson will play a role with pitching this season. She will see mound time throughout the season. Lily has a variety of pitches that keep batters of balance. Each of these three pitchers bring a lot to the table and will be utilized.”

Junior Shea Hilburn and sophomore Jaylee Hawkins will see time at catcher, as will Jaycee Lile. In the infield, depending on who is pitching, senior Abby Lemons and Stevenson will be at first base; junior Gracie McCracken and senior Hallie Woods will play at second; Hilburn will play shortstop when not at catcher; and Sorensen and Brown will alternate between third base and the mound.

In the outfield will be Woods, senior Karlee Willis, senior Kaylyn Weiser and junior Kahlan Fuller.

“The group of seniors will contribute to the leadership this spring,” Fly said. “Kaylyn is defensively our leader in the outfield, and Shea is defensively our leader in the infield. Offensively, our strong senior class will be the leadership.”

Fly said in the offseason, the Lady Tigers played plenty of softball between travel teams and a league they played in as a team.

“Our incoming freshman have improved from eighth grade to this season, and we expect them to improve more,” she said. “Our upperclassmen have improved a ton, as well. We are improving as a team and individuals are improving every day.

“We are senior class heavy this year with strong leadership. Experience will be a strength that we plan to improve upon throughout the season. Defense is another strength moving into the season. We have a lot of returning players that are wanting to improve every day.”

Fly said one improvement she will be looking for is on the mental side of the game.

“One thing we need to improve on is finding the grit to power through and finish a game strong,” she said. “This is something we have set as a goal to find the grit to power through the tough games. Our identity for this year is to work hard and surprise people this season.

“If we work hard every day, good things will happen, and we will surprise people.”

Fly has been Exeter’s coach for 10 years, and her overall record is 10785.

The Lady Tigers opened the season with a win over Southwest, 17-16, and a loss at Crane, 10-3. Exeter played Springfield Catholic on Thursday, falling 5-1, and Marionville on Friday, falling 14-4. Results against Hurley on Monday and Golden City on Tuesday were not available at presstime.

The Lady Tigers next host Spokane on Thursday at 5 p.m.