For the Banks County High School fast-pitch softball team, the time is now.
The time is at hand for a new season. Coach Josh Lord’s squad will begin the 2008 campagin Friday and Saturday at the annual Lanier Point
The tournament games will begin what will be a tough fall slate for the Lady Leopards, who are competing in a region with three preseason top 10 teams.
“We are indeed in a tough region,” Lord said this week. “I feel like we can play with anybody though. We shouldn’t have much trouble getting mentally prepared to play.”
Jefferson, East Jackson and North Oconee are each in the preseason top 10 from 8-AA and Lord said his team should not need any extra motivation when they face those foes.
“It is a testament to the talented players and quality coaches in our region,” Lord said. “We are really looking to turn a corner this year and get Banks County into the conversation of teams to really watch out for. There are no guaranteed wins on our schedule. We cannot afford to have an off day. We have to bring the intensity and focus each day. That is our main goal — to be ready to play every time out and compete hard. If we do that, we’ll have a chance to win.”
Some of the keys to success for the Lady Leopards this fall, Lord said, will be quality pitching.
“Our pitchers will have to throw strikes so the defense can stay ready,” he said. “During summer work and early this preseason, our infield has been a strength. Our outfield has shown a good bit of improvement as well. We are replacing four outfielders from a year ago. Our defense will have to make the routine plays and think ahead.”
Manufacturing runs will also be vital for BCHS.
“I feel like our offense this year will have more power 1-9 in the lineup than ever before,” Lord said. “However, we will still have to be able to get bunts down and put hard line drives and grounders in play on a consistent basis.”
The Lady Leopards will begin play at their new field at the new BCHS sports complex. The team will get to compete on campus on the first time.
“Overall, the program is in good position,” said Lord. “There are many bright spots to point out. We have committed players who want to be successful. Our kids are very coachable and they work hard. We represent Banks County with class and respect on and off the field.
“We were one run and three outs away from the state sectionals two years ago. We had some post season success and we are striving for more. Our new complex is the best we’ll play at all year. The Board of Education, superintendent, administrators and community all banded together to put us in a first-class facility. We are very grateful. The booster club is always willing to get us what we need. We raised money on our own as well and that has really helped build up our summer schedule. The coaches are very dedicated and committed to the program.”
