Lady Leopards return several key players for new season

Thomas has been a starting pitcher since her freshman season. She will be looked upon to lead the pitching staff in 2008. When not pitching, she is also a key player at first base. Lord describes her as a “team leader.”

Baird is a three-year starter behind the plate at catcher.

“She is also a team leader with a good arm and is very athletic,” Lord said. “She can bat for power.”

Taylor, who played shortstop last season, will move to center field this fall. Her coach describes her as “fundamentally sound.” Taylor batted over .300 a year ago.

Senior outfielders Samm Kennedy and Kathy Davidson also return this season along with junior outfielders Brittany Cook and Breanna Langston.

Several players from last season’s junior varsity will compete for playing time on varsity this fall including sophomores Kellany Merck (third base), Laura Rose Pickens (first base), Catlyn Free (second base) and Ashley O’Kelley (outfield). Freshmen who earned JV experience last year include Madison Franklin, Madison Porter, Ashley Morris and Jordan Rogers.

Newcomers include junior Ashley Wilson (shortstop), sophomore Courtney Entrekin (catcher/second base) freshmen Taylor Purvis (pitcher/outfielder) and Cassie Marton (outfield).