2008 Softball Season Preview
Lady Wolves Set High Expectations
The Joliet Junior College softball team is returning five starters from
last year's team. Leading the way for the Lady Wolves will be returning
All-American Nichole Salazar and all-conference selection Kim Samples.
Nichole will see time in the outfield and behind the plate. "Nichole was
our most consistent hitter last year and she will continue to improve,"
Head Coach Emily Marino said. Samples is slotted to play shortstop.
"Kim's a hard worker and with her experience from last season, she will
have another great year."
In the outfield, Elyse Snyder and Erinn May are returning starters who
will be impact players for the Lady Wolves. "Elyse and Erinn's
experience from last season will help the freshman," stated Marino.
Krista Gruca and Kim Breakey will round out the outfield. They are two
freshmen who will make their mark this season. "I expect both to compete
for playing time. They are solid fundamentally and both come from strong
high school programs."
The infield will be led by Nikki Vanderhyden, at first base. She was an
all-conference and all-region selection last season. She will also see
time as the designated hitter. "Nikki really improved her swing last
season; she will be driving in a lot of runs for us this season," Coach
Marino said. Lefty Ashley Paxson, a freshman, will also see time at
first base. Playing second base will be split between Steffanie Hazelton
and Kat Marren; both true freshmen will be competing for the position.
"Both Steffanie and Kat, have been working hard. They are both smart
players. We should be solid up the middle." Chelsea Crawford will also
see time in the middle infield. "Chelsea has a strong background in
softball; we look forward to having her once she is done with
basketball." Playing third base will be Sarah Kessler. "Sarah is a very
talented softball players. The sky is the limit for her. Expect to see
her making a difference on the field and at the plate." Ashley Hernandez
will be a utility player for the Lady Wolves.
The battery for the JJC softball team will be led by sophomore transfer
Kate Votta on the mound. "Kate is a hard worker. She is tough mentally
and will definitely help led our young defense on the field. I expect
great things for Kate this year." Ericka Rodriguez will also be pitching
for JJC. "Ericka has had some time off, but she is making some nice
adjustments. She will keep us in a lot of games this season," said
Marino. Behind the plate will be Val Karas. Karas is very solid
defensively. She is quick behind the plate and has a strong arm. "Val's
talent and desire will help her be a big contributor this season."
The Lady Wolves will look to make a run at the Region IV championship.
"If we continue to improve each and every game, there is no doubt in my
mind that we can accomplish our goals this year," Head Coach Emily
Marino stated. Look for another exciting softball season from the Lady
Wolves.
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