SEASON PREVIEW

The 2010 Lancer softball team returns a number of experienced players from last year. While 16 players return along with the addition of one transfer and five freshmen the Lancers look to make some noise in the GPAC and qualify for the postseason. Players and coaches alike feel that this is the year for the Lancer Softball Program to make a name for itself and receive the benefits from hard work over the past four years. This spring the team will be led by five seniors. Katrina Romero and Amanda Kneifl have been elected captains and will lead by example on and off the field. Amanda returns three years of experience as a starting pitcher. Katrina will again look to play an integral role on the infield while being selected last year as Honorable Mention All Conference. Lexi Cihak also selected Honorable Mention All Conference in 08-09 returns with experience working with the pitching staff while doing a solid job behind the plate. Lauren Donlin returns coming off a season of transitioning to a different defensive position while doing well offensively. Abby Dickes looks to contribute on the infield this spring. She also is a threat with the bat and looks to become consistent while competing to be the designated player in the lineup.

The junior class has two players returning with varsity experience. Erica Loutsch had a solid season in the circle while also logging innings at first base. She will look to earn more time pitching this spring. Amanda Soehl will compete to anchor the outfield and be a spark for the lineup. With hard work she should become more of a threat as a leadoff hitter and continue to put pressure on the defense with her speed.

The sophomore class returns many players for the 2010 season. Beth Schmidt looks to make the transition to the outfield and use her speed both in the field and at the plate. Jessica Polk is coming off of shoulder surgery and will look to get back in the circle. Atlanta Sechser spent time both in the outfield and behind the plate. Her ability to play numerous positions will give the team depth. Caitlin Benson returns with experience on the left side of the infield. Her defensive play will help on the infield and she looks to have a good year hitting. Emily Girard played in the dirt and grass last spring and looks to continue to have that versatility. Paige Rechtenbaugh had some innings at second and also contributed as a designated player in the offensive line up. Brittany Bruns returns with varsity pitching experience and also playing third. Courtney Mallinger is coming off a solid offensive season as a freshman and will make the transition to the infield. Andrea Hansen will look to play in the outfield and become an offensive threat. Sophomore transfer Jen Jerdee will look to compete for time on the infield.

The freshman class will compliment the returning players from 2009. Holly Byrkeland from Algona, IA will compete for time in the outfield. Brittney Mikkelsen from Lennox, SD is a utility player and adds depth to the team. Kassie Loe from Sioux Falls, SD looks to compete for time on the left side of the infield.