BY MADISON SHAPLAND<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Fort Hays State University\u2019s Softball team has been preparing for the beginning of a new season. The 2023 MIAA Softball Preseason Coaches Poll ranks the Tigers 11th – with 57 points.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Last year, the Tigers finished in a tie for 9th in the MIAA. The team has four returning pitchers and has added eight new athletes to their roster. This will be the Tigers’ ninth year under head coach Adrian Pilkington. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cWe\u2019re wanting to break down different stats realms of the game that help us score and put pressure on the opposing team,\u201d Pilkington said. \u201cWe did pretty good at this last year. Zeroing in on base running and at bats, and just staying focused on doing the things that will put us over the edge of others is what we\u2019ve been looking at this pre-season.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pilkington notes last year\u2019s team played underclassmen at many positions, which should help their experience coming into this season. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cWe definitely want our kids to elevate their play, especially conference-wise,\u201d she said. \u201cSix to seven freshmen started last year, so we have some players with a lot of experience and playing time under their belts so early in their careers.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The team is also looking forward to elevating their game this year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cWe were a young team last year and we grew a lot,\u201d returning pitcher Savanah Egger said. \u201cI\u2019m really excited to see what that experience and growth brings this year.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Positivity and team-play are points of emphasis for returning infielder Loren Beggs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cWe\u2019re focusing on playing together as a team,\u201d Beggs said. \u201cStaying up and positive, having each other’s backs, as well as trusting and supporting each other will be key to staying competitive in the MIAA.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
FHSU opens its season this weekend on Friday and Saturday in Wichita Falls, Texas. This season, the Tigers will play a total of 22 games at home, all doubleheaders. February 28th will be their first home showcase of the season at Tiger Stadium. Fort Hays will face Bethel College on the newly completed artificial turf field. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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