KENTWOOD – Playing in one of the most competitive softball conferences in the state, first-year East Kentwood coach Owen Fletke and the Falcons have their work cut out for them.
Last year, Grandville and Rockford tied for first in the OK Red Conference, while Caledonia and Hudsonville tied at the next level. All of those teams feature returning all-state caliber players.
The good news for East Kentwood is that there are several solid players returning to the lineup that could make the Falcons one tough out.
“We have a lot of experience with our seniors and juniors,” Fletke said. “They have done a wonderful job leading by example, helping, teaching, and having incredible energy.”
East Kentwood was 5-28 one year ago, and looks to rebuild on the strength of several returning players.
“My expectations for the 2018 East Kentwood softball team are very high,” Fletke said. “They are high because we have worked all winter on conditioning and softball fundamentals.
“We are very enthusiastic and motivated to improve on last year's results.”
The Falcons should be strong up the middle with their returning players.
Back in the lineup are shortstop Kylie Dunn, center fielder Logan Navarro, pitcher Allie Fitzgerald, and catcher Alex Smith.
Dunn led the team in hitting (.467) one year ago, while leading the team in hits, home runs, and stolen bases. Navarro batted .396 and was second in those remaining categories. Fitzgerald, who pitched 31 of 33 games, and Smith, who caught every inning of all 33 games are considered “workhorses” by their new coach.
“We have pitching depth and an experienced catcher,” Fletke said. “And we have very good speed.”
Also back is second baseman Darlene Burke and third baseman Athena Shupick, along with outfielders Grace Dashner and Kourtney Kurzyniec.
“We have good experience with eight returning varsity players, and tremendous leadership from our senior players,” Fletke said.
Newcomers to the squad this year include pitcher Paige Stroster, catcher Brooklyn DuMont, outfielder Ciasia Jackson, and first baseman Corinne Solomon.
“My expectations are that we will compete at a very high level in every single game,” Fletke said. “Our keys are smart pitching and catching, reliable defense, aggressive approach to hitting and base running, and a lot of communication on the field.
“We need to play at a high level on defense and learn to score one run at a time.”