The Redskins girls’ varsity softball team has opened up their season with a 3-2 record. The ‘Skins division is packed with plenty of powerhouse teams, such as Pennsbury, Archbishop Wood and C. B. West to name a few. They are looking forward to a great season.

“This year is different. I won’t make any predictions for you because anything can happen in the Suburban One League, but if we play with our hearts, we can definitely win it,” commented senior Leah Conley after their second win.

The ‘Skins opened their season with a win against Archbishop Wood. Conley picked up the win on the mound, striking out seven in six innings. “It’s always good to win your first game, especially against the two-time defending Catholic League champions,” said head coach Ron Shoemaker.

The ‘Skins picked up their second win against Conwell-Egan. Again Conley picked up the win. The winning run, and only run, came in the first inning when freshman Chrissy Gannon scored on a wild pitch. Their third win came against North Penn. The ‘Skins blew them out 6-0.

It is Shoemaker’s second year as head coach of the “Skins. Now that the girls are used to his system things should run more smoothly for them.

“There’s a whole new attitude this year, so many more positives,” senior second baseman Christen Couzzi said. “There was a little bit of an adjustment for the whole team last year but that always happens with a new coach.”

Success this season will be determined by spread out team effort. “We are much better off if everyone chips in and plays their part,” said Shoenmaker. “Teams that rely on a superstar will never be as good as teams that play as a whole.”

There is a definite sense of senior leadership on this squad. Couzzi, Kelly McManus, Lauren Mullins, Kelly Garvin along with Conley have led the team this year, mentally and physically in the games.

“The seniors definitely need some recognition. They are showing the leadership skills necessary for a good team," explained Shoemaker.

So far this season, the ‘Skins pitching and defense have held strong. Conley has pitched great, and an excellent fielding staff is supporting her. Juniors Jen Baldwin and Alisa Finn and Sophomore Allison Nemeth to name a few.

The ‘Skins however are struggling at the plate. “We need to relax and start hitting the way we can, when we’re relaxed we hit well, when we’re not we don’t," said Shoemaker.

The girls have prepared for the season with work in the batting cages and on the fundamentals. Couzzi and Conley also played on a club team that won the national championship.

“Getting along with your teammates is really important and this year. We are all friends, so we’re expecting a good season because of all the comradery and hard work,” commented Nemeth.

With senior talent and leadership, help from the underclassmen, and a great coach to guide them, the lady 'Skins should go far this season. Their goal this season is to have an impressive record, succeed in the district playoffs, and earn a state berth.

By Drew Demberg
Staff Writer