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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Ne Squads Warming Up For Openers

Ward Sanderson Correspondent

Despite the soggy weather, Northeast A League girls softball players are getting ready to step up to the plate.

With season-openers just around the corner, Riverside, Lakeside and Deer Park players are slogging from muddy base to muddy base in preparation for game day.

Riverside

Riverside, which tied with Newport last year as league champs, returns with some unexpected losses.

“I lost four all-league players I was counting on,” Coach Joe Peterson said. Nonetheless, he said his newer players are up to the job.

Returning seniors are Sherylon Knuth and Amy Summers. Juniors taking the field again include Amy Hollenbeck, Jill Thompson and Katie Putman.

“Those three have played big roles in the past,” Peterson said.

Sophomores to watch are Tiffany McMurphy, Candi Russell and Erin Leighton.

Riverside’s league opener is March 25 at Chewelah.

Lakeside

Lakeside coach Mary McAdam said her team’s strenghth is catching, but the problem is persuading the players of that.

“Our problems are mental, not physical,” she said. “We’ll be up there if believe we can do it.”

Depth isn’t a problem.

Seniors returning to the diamond include Stephanie Gunther, Echo Jimm, Kyndrin Rowse, Suzanne Kimble and Kari Wilkins. Other returning seniors are Jennifer Schumacher and Heidi Cutler.

Juniors expected to get ample field time are Traci O’Brien and Jennifer Dearman. Returning sophomores are Sara Schumacher, Raylena Bowell, Liz Zambruski, Karrie Waddell and Alisa Moriarty.

Lakeside begins league play at Newport on March 25.

Deer Park

Deer Park coach Lisa Collins said the strength of her squad is pitching and greater depth, despite the presence of just one senior.

“Our pitching has improved, and overall experience-wise, we’re better,” she said.

The sole returning senior is J.J. Maggart. Returning juniors include Angie Pittz, Jaidean Watson and Tricia Guest.

Sophomores returnees are Jamie Stone, Jennifer Baker, Heather Darrow and Edith Bryant.

Deer Park’s first league game is March 25 at Colfax.