by David Grimes
After losing only one starter off of last’s River Ridge District and Region IV championship team, the Cave Spring softball squad, behind eight returning starters, is poised to make another run deep into the playoffs in 2012.
Donning the Knights uniform this season are Taylor Asimakopoulos (pitcher/infield), junior Lauren Roach (infield/outfield), senior Kayla Malkos (infield), junior Madi Billings (catcher), freshman Kylie Kent (infield), senior Noelle Patterson (outfield), senior Danielle Stump (pitcher/infield), senior Dani Duff (outfield), junior Cortney Cooper (infield/outfield), senior Savannah Wilson (outfield), senior Hannah Sitze (outfield/pitcher), junior Amanda Simmons (outfield/catcher), freshman Abby Beatty (pitcher/infield), junior Victoria Muncy (outfield), senior Caitlin Ragan (infield) and junior Hannah Ferguson (infield).
“This year’s team is filled with potential,” said head coach Lindsey Moore. “We only lost one starter from last year’s team. We have two returning starting pitchers who led us to the state quarterfinals last year. Also returning are all-district players Duff, Malkos, Stump, Asimakopoulos and Cooper. There are two freshmen on this year’s roster who are expected to make an impact. Kent was a standout third baseman for the JV team year and Beatty spent the majority of her time on JV in the pitcher’s circle. She will see time on the mound this year, as well as time in the infield.”
When asked about the Knights strengths and weaknesses, Moore replied, “We are a versatile team. Having so many pitchers is a good problem to have. The disadvantage to that is that we have to move positions around depending on who is on the mound. Fortunately, I have several players that can fill numerous roles on the team. Our infield is expected to be strong, with several veteran players. Our weakness this year will be in the outfield, particularly in the first part of season since we will be without all-state player, Duff, who is out for rehab from a shoulder injury. She is expected to be back in the lineup before the district games begin, barring any complications.”
Cave Spring sees its top games being with non-district foe Northside and district member Salem.
“I have high expectations for this year’s team at Cave Spring. We have a lot of veteran players returning to the lineup with the addition of some stand-out players from last year’s JV program. Like everyone, we have our strengths and weaknesses, but I believe with hard work and dedication this can be a great year for Cave Spring Softball.”
The Knights opened the season on Monday at William Byrd with a 4-2 loss.