Decatur, MS - The East Central Community College Lady Warrior softball team is gearing up to start its 2024 season. Following a 30-24, 14-14 record last year, Head Softball Coach Leigh White is excited about the potential of the team's core of returning sophomores, which will be complemented well by the talented freshmen joining the squad. White stated that the team has been working hard every day, both on and off the field.
The Lady Warriors have recruited a group of talented freshmen, which includes Baylie Romero (Plaquemine, LA), Sydney Myrick (Quitman, MS), Kayleigh Karel (Vicksburg, MS), Sophia Romero (Lafayette, LA), Sarah Grace Jones (Prattville, AL), Riley Hatten (Grayson, LA), Kaitlyn Jones (Florence, MS), Macee Dunn (Flora, MS), Manda Rie Leach (Newton, MS), and Kylee Raye Dewitt (Enterprise, MS). White highlighted Sophia Romero as a standout player due to her speed and versatility on the field.
The team will also be led by eight returning sophomores, including Janci Aube (Lafayette, LA), Lauren Dunbar (Natchez, MS), Reagan Bryan (Meridian, MS), Emma Rankin (Taylorsville, MS), Catherine Stroud (Enterprise, MS), Anna Grace Shows (Sumrall, MS), Emily Collins (Fredericksburg, VA), and Sydney Phillips (Flowood, MS). White expects the outfield to be solid with four returning outfielders, while the infield has been restructured, with a focus on working hard and adapting to different positions.
The Lady Warriors have a roster of 20 players, and each position player will play a pivotal role offensively and defensively. The team wants to improve its fielding percentage from last season while maintaining a solid presence in the batter's box.
Before beginning their league play, the Lady Warriors face a demanding non-conference schedule that Coach White hopes will help them prepare for the conference schedule. White is confident about the team's ability to be competitive this season, given their improved depth in the circle.
In addition to new players, Olivia Burns will join the coaching staff as an assistant coach alongside Head Coach Leigh White and Assistant Coach Katelyn Gruich. Burns brings a year of coaching experience to the team, including a stint at Mississippi Delta Community College.
With a mix of returning sophomores and talented freshmen, the Lady Warriors are ready to take on the MACCC in 2024. The team's first game is on Thursday, February 8th, at 2 PM in Decatur, MS. Fans can find the complete season schedule at www.ecccathletics.com/schedule.