The Lady Eagles softball team is looking forward to the start of the 2022 season, beginning on Saturday at home vs. Southern Huntingdon.

The team lost its season two years ago due to COVID-19, and last season was a rebuilding year with many underclassmen and a record of 3-8.

This year the team hopes to turn the corner and post a winning record and return to post-season play.

“After a long year of ups and downs, I feel this year is our year and we are coming back stronger than before,” said senior Macy Tuskovich.

This offseason, many players on the team were in the gym working out and also played in an indoor softball league to prepare for this spring.

“We’ve been working harder than we ever have before to get to where we are now. I can already see a difference from the winter league to now and we are 100% already a better team,” said Tuskaovich.

The girls are already off to a good start, having won both of their pre-season scrimmages. The first was a 2-1 win against West Branch and the second was a 7-6 win over State College.

The Lady Eagles only lost two starting players from last year’s squad. One of whom, Ella Pearson, is now playing softball at Mount Aloysius College.

“This group of girls this year have come such a long way. I think we are finally realizing that we are better than what we realize,” said senior Maci Brodzina. “During the preseason, we beat West Branch and State College, who we lost to last season. Beating those teams really boosts our confidence as we get ready for our season.”

With so many returning starters and letter winners, the Lady Eagles are looking to compete in the Mountain League this season and make a playoff appearance.

Among this year’s key players are team captains Maci Brodzina and Macey Tuskaovich. Brodzina plays shortstop and Tuskaovich will start at first base. Both are optimistic for the season and hope to do amazing things as a team.

“I really believe that we will make it far this year. Winning Districts is definitely in reach. I think we are so lucky for the type of chemistry we have together. We work together and help us become successful,” said Brodzina.

Roster:

Seniors

Maci Brodzina
Macey Tuskaovich

Juniors

Maci Lingenfelter
Emma Dibert
Emily Smith
Beth Pearson

Sophomores

KK Brodzina
Tiffanie Tuskaovich
Allison Beeman
Maddy Rockwell
Summer Shaw

Freshman

Sam Shaw
Layna Dibert