Homerun hopes

whittier college women's softball 2012 season preview Dana Barraco, Sports - By on Thursday, February 16, 2012 - 02:19

Coming off of a 23-19 overall season and an 11-13 record in SCIAC in 2011, Head Softball Coach Shelley Whitaker addresses several areas the team looks to improve upon. “Our infield was tied for second in the nation for double plays…but [we need] consistency in outfield play to step it up,” Whitaker said.

The team’s acclamations for last season include national recognition for double plays, a play that results in two outs for the opponent, and the highest number of home runs, 34, in SCIAC. They are also nationally ranked No. 10 for homeruns and No. 12 for slugging. Individually, three players, alumna infielder Molly Yriarte, senior outfielder Nikki Mendoza and senior infielder Brenda Thompson, were recognized for the 2011 All-SCIAC team. In the past four years, the Poets have made it to the playoffs as well as boasted 20 wins in each of those seasons.

Losing two key players, Yriarte, and alumna pitcher Heather Dady will take its toll on the Poets, but Whitaker is confident in the “depth” of this 2012 team. Last year, due to injuries, the end of the season fell short for the Lady Poets. This year, with 15 new faces, 12 freshmen and three transfers, the caliber of players is at its highest allowing for a well knitted security net for the team.

This year the Poets will strive to live up to their reputation. Whitaker has high hopes for the team, packed with 27 players, especially its seniors. One of the keys to making this season a success is “leadership from the seniors,” Whitaker said.

Other areas of focus for the upcoming season will be consistency at the plate and pitching. A new pitching coach, Darren McCleave, should help with this direction. Coach Whittaker lost two of her assistant coaches, but says that the “fresh perspective should be a good thing for us.” Political Science professor Mike McBride will also be assisting the team for another year.

“My hope for the team this year is for us to beat the school record and get 27 wins since we came so close last year,” sophomore infielder Ariana Assenmacher said. The drive and determination to get better and better each year can be seen in softball’s willingness to put in the extra effort on the field and in preseason conditioning. Hopefully, the dedication pays off.
The Lady Poets’ have started their season 2-2, including a walk-off homerun in their home opener.
They look to win their first SCIAC game in a doubleheader against Redlands on Sunday, Feb. 19 at home at noon at 2 p.m.