By RICHIE HALL
Reporter Sports Editor
There will be a mix of new and familiar faces for the Fishers softball team this year.
First of all, the Tigers have a new coach: Bridget Langan-Puckett. She will be coaching what she calls “a great mix of new and returning players,” including six that earned varsity letters last season, including three seniors.
The first senior back is Kristy Gordon, who is Fishers’ top returning hitter. Gordon batted .429 last season, with 21 hits, 15 runs scored and 11 runs batted in.
“Kristy Gordon will be back in our outfield and our lineup, she brings with her three years of varsity experience, speed, smarts, and offensive production,” said Langan-Puckett.
Also returning are seniors Diane Abbott and Sydney Milburn.Langan-Puckett said Abbott “will have an expanded role this season, we will use her in both the infield and outfield as needed.
“Sydney Milbourn, our third senior, is new to varsity and brings a big bat and solid glove at first base,” said Langan-Puckett.
Two sophomores also return after playing varsity as freshmen. Benson averaged .357 last year and hit a pair of home runs. She totaled 15 hits and 14 runs scored last season. Also back is Courtney James, with 14 hits and 13 runs scored. Langan-Puckett said the two sophomores “will manage the left side of the infield and make some noise in the batter’s box.”
“This team is made up of 13 hard working and smart players, we are looking forward to a fun season as we work toward our ultimate goal of a sectional championship,” said Langan-Puckett.
The Tigers will open their season on March 27 by hosting Noblesville.
Fishers roster
Seniors: Diane Abbott, Kristy Gordon, Sydney Milburn.
Juniors: Caroline Bernhardt, Sarah Bumps, Jade Frye, Alexis Hall, Mara Lorkowski, Maddie Wellington.
Sophomores: Brooke Benson, Courtney James.
Freshmen: Olivia Latimer, Hannah Mays.