Softball Anxious to move up in 2013 WCAC, VISAA campaign

Junior Susie Rhodes (18) will play a big role at the plate as well as pitching for the 2013 Cardinals.

The 2013 Bishop Ireton Softball team opens the season this week planning to build on last year’s 12-12 record. A solid group of experienced players returns from last year recharged with fresh talent.

Returning players Emily Quinn and Kathleen Walsh will be joined by the powerful bat of Sarah Howell along with Eileen Louison to lead the team as seniors. Quinn is expected to return to first base while Walsh will again be patrolling Ireton’s outfield. A strong crop of experienced juniors will provide power at the plate and sure handedness in the field.

All WCAC pitcher Susy Rhodes inherits the pitching circle, bringing both heat and movement with her pitches. Megan Sullivan’s steady bat will provide needed punch and Maria Manzek’s speed and strong arm provide solid defense to the outfield. All-state catcher/shortstop Heather Pearson rounds out this strong group of juniors.

Katie Reilly returns to the varsity squad again this year with transfer student Emma Petersen and Maggi Coyle who has moved up from last year’s JV squad. The three represent Ireton’s sophomore class and expect to make a solid contribution to the team. Three freshman: Molly Jeffers, Angela Kammen and Clara Boggs earned spots on the varsity roster, adding balance and depth.

Head coach Terri Pearson returns for her third year and will be assisted this season by Mike Hutton. A great addition to the squad is senior manager Claire Nagle who offers great support to both players and the coaching staff.

After scrimmages this week against Lee and Wakefield High Schools the Cardinals open the season at home against St. John’s on Tuesday, March 12 th at Luckett Field. First pitch is at 4PM. Other schedule highlights include a doubleheader in Richmond on March 23rd as part of the Richmond North-South Challenge weekend and a five-day tournament over spring break in Myrtle Beach.

“We have a wonderful group of talented girls this year for our challenging 25-game schedule.” said Coach Pearson. “We’ll not only be playing in the competitive WCAC, but also have a number of games against other Virginia independent schools and teams from up and down the east coast.”

The regular season schedule: (Home games in CAPS)

M12 – ST JOHNS 4pm

M14 – Bishop O’Connell 4pm

M18 – St Mary’s Ryken 4pm

M20 – PAUL VI 4pm

M23 – Collegiate School 11am (North-South Challenge)

M23 – Brunswick Academy 2pm (North-South Challenge)

M25 – Elizabeth Seton 4pm

M27 – HOLY CROSS 4pm

A8 – Bishop McNamara 4pm

A10 – GOOD COUNSEL 4pm

A12 – BISHOP O’CONNELL 4pm