It’s often said in coaching circles the biggest improvement is from year one to year two for a program.
Winder-Barrow High School fast-pitch softball coach Monty McClure sees how that is possible. Now entering his second season directing the Lady Bulldoggs, McClure has had a full offseason schedule to work with his team and the difference is evident going into preseason practice.
“We are ahead of last season,” McClure said recently. “We got a late start last summer and were not able to play as many games. This year we have pretty much worked all summer. We’ve been able to play several games and the players have been able to work on the areas they need improvement in.”
While admitting there is still plenty of work to be done, McClure said he doesn’t think it will take his team as long to get its footing this season.
WBHS missed the state tournament in 2010, something McClure admits was a disappointment for all involved. However, with several games this summer under their belts, the Lady Bulldoggs are looking to be a contender in Region 8-AAAA this fall. (WBHS even scrimmage against Loganville at the end of its summer schedule.)
“We had to play several regular season games last year before we really got on track,” McClure said. “I don’t think that will be an issue this year. The players have worked all summer and are ready to hit the ground running as soon as the season starts.”
The Lady Bulldoggs began region play 1-3 last fall but rallied for a 5-1 finish to qualify for the region playoffs. Loganville would defeat WBHS in a best-of-three series, however, to advance to state.
WBHS will open the 2011 season Aug. 10-13 in a tournament hosted by Madison County High School. A junior varsity tournament will be co-hosted by Winder-Barrow and Apalachee Aug. 11-13.
“The main thing for us will to have a faster start,” McClure said. “We don’t want to have to dig out of a hole like we did last year. Hopefully with a full offseason program this year, things will go smoother. We are hoping to be playing quality softball at the beginning of the season as well. You have to play well throughout the year not just at certain times.”
