Cobden softball team set to begin fall season

The Cobden High School softball team returns seven players from the 2009 Class 1A state championship squad to build a winning team around for the 2009-2010 season.

“We’ve got some good leadership coming back,” Cobden coach Nathan Emrick said. “If we get the girls to step up and fill those positions (we lost) we’ll be okay.”

Leading the way from last year’s 48-5 squad are the return of the standout pitching duo of seniors Taylor Orsburn and DaCota Knop. They will each be at third base when not on the mound.

Juniors who are returning are shortstop Ana Duda, catcher Kayla Quertermous and left fielder Jordyn Grey.

Sophomore returning starters are right fielder Taylor Wilkins and second baseman Emily Murray. Emily Flamm saw action as a designated player and will be in the outfield.

Another senior who could contribute is infielder Katelyn Wiggs.

Other sophomore hopefuls are infielders Katie Mowell and outfielder Kristina Davis.

Freshmen who could contribute are infielder/pitcher Kristin Pender, infielder/outfielder Devyn Inman and outfielders Alexis Petermen, Savannah Warner, Hannah Spalt and Hailee Clark.

Emrick said this is a new season and the team can’t live on last year’s laurels to be successful.

“It kind of depends on our attitude and how hard they want to work,” Emrick said.

Emrick sees Goreville as being a threat in the South Egyptian Conference softball race this season.

“We’re going to take them one game at a time,” Emrick said. “Shawnee could sneak up on somebody this year, too.”

The Appleknockers are scheduled to open their season at Jackson, Mo., Tuesday, Aug. 25.