Cobden softball returns nine starters this spring
The Cobden High School softball team returns all of its starters from last season.
“I feel pretty good about the season,” Cobden coach Michele Burris said. “I think we’ll be strong, I’m really excited about it.”
The nine returning starters from last season’s 7-13 squad include four seniors: catcher/shortstop Brooke Bailey, pitcher/shortstop Molly Ellis, pitcher/utility Meredith Flamm and first baseman Alaina Hartline.
The juniors returning are center fielder Harleigh Braden and second baseman Megan Rhodes, who join a trio of sophomores in left fielder Jamison Cowart, right fielder Jenna Hartline and at third base Lauren Sweitzer.
Other juniors are pitcher/first baseman Lexi Miller and outfielder Lauryn Mitchell and three freshmen in outfielder Aubrey Fisher, pitcher Alyssa Penrod and catcher/first baseman Emily White.
“This is an exceptional year,” Burris said. “We’ve got depth and we’re strong up and down the lineup both offensively and defensively.”
Burris said keeping the team healthy will be a big key to their success.
She sees Elverado as the top team in the South Egyptian Conference race.
“They’re always strong,” Burris said.
The Appleknockers are scheduled to open their season Friday at Murphysboro.