Softball team secures home base for spring

The first pitch of the Lady Aggies softball team will not be thrown until Feb. 2, but the team is already practicing to perfect their game for a chance at the Lone Star Conference championship.

This years’ team focus seems to be stressing defense.

Cameron Head Softball Coach Brent Shaw said this is because “defense wins championships.” According to Shaw, this year’s team is particularly strong in defense.

This year’s roster consists of nine new players and six returning players. Last year, the team finished the season 23 to 37, an improvement in wins from the previos season’s 11 to 13.

Team expectations for winning have been set a few notches higher.

Shaw stated that some of the toughest competition would include University of Central Oklahoma and Southeastern University. He mentioned that last season, UCO made it to nationals and that CU softball can compete and play ball on that level, too.

Shaw said the team as a whole is expected to come together to play a good ball game. One of the returning two seniors, Stephanie Bour, who was All Lone Star Conference first team shortstop and led the team in batting averages, is expected to do as well again this year.

The other returning senior, Amista Melvin, is also an important utility player, playing multiple positions including first to third and shortstop.

Another returning player, who last season earned All Lone Star Conference Honorable Mention for second base, is sophomore Megan Young, who is a valuable offensive player and led the team in stolen bases last season.

With a year of experience already, returning pitcher Bethany Stefinsky is expected to step up and be a dominant force for the team this year. Aston McBride, a freshman who also plays outfield, will split innings on the mound along with fellow freshman pitcher Amanda Moore.

Shaw stated that all the players will play a crucial role on this year’s team, and Shaw mentioned that, although some of the team members are new, they all have the experience and eagerness to play the game. He hopes for a shot at getting into the conference and winning.

This year, the Lady Aggies will play 50 to 60 games, and the season opening game will be held Feb. 2 to 4 in San Antonio, Texas, when Cameron will face off with competitors in a tournament hosted by St Mary’s. The first home game will take place Feb. 10 at Cameron Field against West Texas A&M.