After a disappointing sixth place finish in the North Coast
Athletic Conference in 2002, the 2003 Tiger softball team believes
it is on the way back up. With the return of 11 letterwinners,
including eight starters, from last year's 12-21-1 squad, Head
Coach Becky Hall believes the Tigers have what it takes to be in
the top spot this season and bring a conference Tournament back to
Springfield.
Among several key returning players for the Tigers is the team's
lone senior and one of the best offensive players in the NCAC,
centerfielder Beth Walters (Westerville,
Ohio/DeSales). Last season, Walters led the team in
several offensive categories and was named first-team All-NCAC and
All-Great Lakes Region. With another quality season, Walters will
finish her career as one of the finest hitting outfielders in
Wittenberg history.
Also back after an outstanding 2002 is sophomore Norah
Gillam (Canfield, Ohio/Canfield), the NCACs Newcomer of
the Year and third-team All-Great Lakes Region selection a year
ago. Gillam, who played several different positions in 2002, will
continue to add depth to the pitching rotation, which can boast
seven pitchers on staff this season, and will bat in the middle of
the lineup after hitting .304 last year.
The key element, and strong suit, for the 2003 squad is depth.
After injuries plagued the already small roster in 2002, this
seasons squad is loaded with talent and bodies. A great recruiting
year led to the addition of 10 new players who will quickly learn
the "Wittenberg Way," and all will battle for starting positions.
Among some of the talented rookies are freshmen Katelyn
Beddow (Lexington, Ohio/Ashland), who will see time at
third base and middle infielder Kelly Sasavicz (Massillon,
Ohio/Washington). Also playing in their first season at
Wittenberg are junior transfer Katie Gildow (Bellefontaine,
Ohio/Bellefontaine) and sophomore Ashley Lands
(Dover, Ohio/Dover).