Voluntary conditioning is under way for the Liberty County High School softball team. While coach Jerome Standard is looking to whip everyone into shape for the season, he is also looking to fill two vital positions currently vacant — pitching and catching.
“We’ve lost our battery, which is the most essential part to a fast-pitch softball team,” he said. “Those positions are wide open.”
With Jordan Struble gone from the mound and Charlee Coursey no longer behind the plate, the coach said younger girls are stepping up and battling for spots.
“We have three kids throwing right now who are vying for that pitching spot – Victoria Anthony, Lori Harden and Brianna Peyton,” Standard said. “We’ve also got Gabriela Anthony and Ashley Desbiens who are both trying for the spot behind the plate. Both caught for the JV team and they will be dueling for the spot. We have the potential in both spots but it’s difficult to fill a battery.”
The infield is another story. Tiara Howard is back to cover third, Brittany Desbiens is back at shortstop and first will be covered by Morgan Crowley.
The coach said second base will have to be filled since Kinae Gordon graduated.
There’s also experience in the outfield.
“One of our main outfielders is Diamone Johnson and she will be back,” Standard said. “Brianna Peyton also plays outfield and so does Victoria Anthony, so more than likely they will be in the mix because of their versatility.”
In addition, Standard said there are some who played on the JV squad last season who show promise.
Regardless of who steps up to take starting positions, the Lady