By RICHIE HALL
Reporter Sports Editor
The strength of the University softball team will be in the middle this season.
The middle grades, since Trailblazers coach Maddy MacAllister said the team has “a strong group of sophomores and juniors returning” to the field. That includes some good hitters and a pitcher who gained experience in the circle as a freshman.
“We grew a lot last season and we are looking to continue to grow, get stronger, and win more games this season,” said MacAllister.
The top returning hitter and pitcher is sophomore Abby Martin. As a freshman, Martin averaged .441 with 15 hits, 11 runs scored and five runs batted in. She also threw well, with 28 strikeouts for the season.
Other top returners include junior infielder Lillian Klemsz, who brings back the most RBIs from last year with eight. Also back for their junior seasons are center fielder Meredith Malott, left fielder Lydia Copeland and Aiyana Bruemmer-Gambles, who swung between second base and left field. Sophomore returners include left fielder Annie Klemsz and second baseman Elise Nachlis.
In addition, there are several new faces as well. That includes senior Reese Kavanaugh and two juniors, Tatiana Dunipace and Haley Tomlinson.
“Between the mix of returning players and the new players, I am excited to make some history this season,” said MacAllister. “We have a great group of girls who are eager to get outside and play and I’m excited to see what we can accomplish as a team.”
University will open its season April 9 at Greenwood Christian.
University roster
Senior: Reese Kavanaugh.
Juniors: Aiyana Brummer-Gambles, Lydia Copeland, Tatiana Dunipace, Lillian Klemsz, Meredith Malott, Haley Tomlinson.
Sophomores: Queen Hill, Robin Karwath, Annie Klemsz, Abby Martin, Kaitlynn Miller, Elise Nachlis.
Freshmen: Grace Brenner, Sophia Hwang, Soren Rothenberg, Kendra Stevens.