Three-fourths of the Guerin Catholic softball team this year consists of underclassmen.
But coach Jeff Buckner believes that his team is poised for a breakout year.
“Although the Golden Eagles will be young once again this spring, with most of the key starting positions returning the team is poised to go to the next level,” said Buckner, who returns as coach of the Guerin Catholic team this year. “All of the innings pitched return this season along with two all-conference and all-county selections.”
The GC roster breaks down as follows: Two seniors and two juniors, then six sophomores and six freshmen. The seniors have been around the bases several times: Maddie Buckner and Hannah Bills have been varsity players since they were freshmen.
“Seniors Maddie Buckner and Hanna Bills have started every varsity game for the past three seasons and hope to use that experience to guide the younger Golden Eagles,” said Jeff Buckner.
First baseman Maddie Buckner brings back a .481 batting average, with pitcher/outfielder Hannah Bills right behind her at .480. Buckner has 12 stolen bases, while Bills returns a 3-5 pitching record, 50 innings pitched and 30 strikeouts.
Meanwhile, the sophomore class has a wealth of experience, including three more big hitters. Third baseman Victoria Flores is the top returning hitter with a .484 average. Pitcher/outfielder Alicia Flores batted .464 last season, while compiling a 4-7 record in the circle with 66-1/3 innings pitched and 62 strikeouts. Centerfield Ana Macha averaged a .403 and stole 13 bases.
Among the newcomers, sophomore Aliyah Dorsey transferred to Guerin Catholic from Hamilton Heights and is a potential for the GC line-up. Freshman Izzy Kemp is a solid pitching prospect.
“We are excited to get back on the field, for such a young team we have a lot of experience, and
the girls have set some pretty lofty goals,” said Jeff Buckner.
The Golden Eagles open their season Tuesday by hosting Lawrence Central.
GUERIN CATHOLIC ROSTER
Seniors: Hannah Bills, Maddie Buckner.
Juniors: Lizzy DiBlasio, Faith Goodin.
Sophomores: Sarah Dilley, Aliyah Dorsey, Alicia Flores, Victoria Flores, Ana Macha, Lucy Schenk.
Freshmen: Zoey Bussick, Izzy Kemp, Kirsten Mascaro, Megan Powers, Laine Schwegman, Jenny Zerla.
Faith Goodin is one of two juniors on the roster for this year’s Guerin Catholic softball team. The Golden Eagles have several young but experienced players who are ready for a breakout season. (Richie Hall/File photo)