Pointing to their 24-0-1 jayvee record a year ago, Ozark pitchers Hannah Loofbourrow and Paisley Turner feel the Lady Tigers will reload rather than rebuild.
The large majority of Ozark’s jayvee starters from last season will be filling varsity spots this season. The Lady Tigers lost eight starters to graduation.
“Playing up at a new level, we don't have as much experience as some teams,” Loofbourrow said. “But I feel we're going to do well. I think (our success) is going to carry on and we’re going to play with the same confidence. I trust my defense and hitters. Our bats are going to be pretty hot. We have some speed. And, our defense is going to be lock-down.”
“I expect us to win a lot. I think we can pick up from where the team last year left off,” Turner said. “We had a great jayvee season and can carry that forward to the varsity level. It's not the same level, obviously. But we all are great players. We can win.”
New Ozark coach Brenden Schneider doesn’t underestimate his players’ desire to prove themselves and succeed.
“It's a great group of kids. They work hard every single day,” he said. “They are ready for an opportunity and ready to step up. There are a lot of girls who want to find a spot and compete. That's made our practices competitive. They're taking every rep very seriously. I'm excited to see what they bring.”
Schneider, who previously coached at Joplin and Kickapoo, adds his players can find further motivation ... Click here to read full article
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