Falcon softball preview

RUMFORD -- There will always be highs and lows during the spring season, so the objective for the Mountain Valley softball team is to try and limit the latter in its attempt to achieve some success.

The degree of how many highs depends on the Lady Falcons themselves and how each player reacts to different situations. A majority of the load will rest on the shoulders of several veterans who will be counted on to wade through the rugged Mountain Valley Conference.

The team started slow in 2009 and 2010 because of a brutal early schedule, henceforth, the opening week has games against Madison, Jay and Telstar. This might provide an indicator as to which direction the team is headed.

“This is a well rounded team,” said coach Brian Mills. “All of them can play the field, I think it's going to come down to who can produce at the plate.”

Leading the way is senior Lindsay Gallant, who missed all of last season, who will handle the pitching duties. Gallant replaces former ace Shelby Moore. The ability to throw strikes will be important. Seniors Lynsie Dupuis and Jessie Kane will be working behind the plate as well as infield/outfield.

The outfield will be solid with centerfielder McKenzie Patterson, Breana Roberts (infield/outfield), Courtney Carlson and Lacey Gallant. Lauren White (second base) rounds out the seniors.

Juniors Chrissy Briggs (outfielder/pitcher), Kirsten Ridge (second base/outfield), Hannah LaPointe (shortstop, outfield), and sophomore Brooke Dolloff (third base/pitcher) rounds out the returning varsity players from last year.

“Dolloff and LaPointe are both top hitters from last season,” said Mills. “We have to get runners on in front of them. We have speed on the bases.”

The majority of the players can be inserted at different positions and this type of versatility is an asset. The ability to rotate the lineup in the latter innings of games is a luxury. But the team defense can not afford to give up unearned runs.

“We have a lot of options this season,” said Mills. “The returning players will be challenged from underclassmen.”

Newcomers include junior Delaney Paterson, sophomores Nicole Burgess, Darbi Brown and Mckenzie Gallant, with freshmen Shannon Laubauskus, Ellie Hall and Jena Plourde will be pushing for playing time as well.

“I’m looking for a great year,” said Mills, who was hoping some scrimmages would tell who’s doing what. “Getting back to the playoffs is always the goal.”