DHS softball team tries to return to state tournament

By Dusty Harper (Contact) | Dadeville Record

Published Wednesday, February 10, 2010

The Dadeville softball team will start its journey to make a return trip to the state tournament next week when it starts the 2010 season.

Unfortunately for the Lady Tigers, because of the weather and having players in other sports, they haven’t had much time on the field to practice. On the flip side, nearly everybody returns from a team that won 24 games in 2009, so it might not take too long for Dadeville to return to form.

“We’ve looked OK so far,” said head coach Kasey Smith, who is ready for her second year at the helm. “We’ve had girls in cheerleading and basketball, so we still haven’t had everyone together yet. It’s been a constant struggle trying to get work accomplished, so I can’t say with confidence how I feel about us yet.”

Smith said the team has been able to go through some situational work on the infield, but still hasn’t faced live pitching.

Smith has to feel good about her two pitchers who are coming back this season. Freshman Rae Williams is back to lead DHS in the circle after striking out 130 batters and allowing just 46 hits in 103.1 innings last year. Assisting her will be eighth grader Jodie Caldwell.

“We should have two strong pitchers,” Smith said. “Everyone saw what Rae could do last year, but we think Jodie can be really successful, too. She pitched a little last year and just needs some experience. She’s thrown well in practice, and I don’t think she should have any problem moving back to 43 feet.

“I’m a little worried that we’re so young at pitcher, but these girls can get the job done and I think we’ll be fine.”

At the plate is where Dadeville needs to improve if it is to return to Montgomery, according to Smith. A couple of returning hitting leaders for Dadeville are Reba Hawkins, who hit .359 last year, had an on-base percentage of .490 and stole 27 bases, and Andrea White, who batted .383 and drove in 40 runs.

“Our girls know that our hitting as a whole is what has to get better,” Smith said. “We’re going to have to work hard at it. As far as attitude and willingness to give effort goes, we’re having no problems.”

First baseman Kristen Sharpe, third baseman Kim Greer and outfielder/shortstop Devin Hooks are the three seniors on this year’s team. Smith is hoping last year’s run to the final tournament will help this team keep up its work ethic all season to get another shot at a ring.

“I think going last year to state will help a great deal,” Smith said. “All of our starters are back, they’ve all seen it and they all know what it takes to get back.

“The players and I have a good relationship,” Smith said. “They know I love them no matter what, and I think that matters a lot. We’re going to give 100 percent, and that’s all I can ask for.”

---

WOULD YOU LIKE TO SHARE THIS STORY?

---