The Lady Badger softball team is returning a number of starters and experienced players in year two under head coach Blakeli Brookreson.
Led this year by Brooklyn Farmer, Kamryn Kothmann, Madison Magilke and others, the team will look to return to the playoffs and make a run toward some postseason wins.
Brookreson has said her girls will be able to compete with anyone, and she wants them to play with a confidence and swagger all season long.
“I just want us to go out there very aggressive … I just want to be a team that comes out fast, that comes out hard, that comes out very aggressive,” the coach said. “I mean if we come out on top, then we come out on top, and if we don’t then we know what to fix.
“I’m really excited and our goal obviously is to go to playoffs,” Brookreson said. “But for me, I want to go further in the playoffs than just the first round. I want to be top three in our district, and I want these girls to want it just as much as I do. I know that they do -- I see it every day in practice.”
In softball, the success or failure of a team often lands on the pitcher or pitching staff.
The Lady Badgers have a seasoned veteran in Farmer, who recently committed to play at Tarleton State University. She has been a varsity player since she was a freshman. The now-junior will look to step into the leadership role left by Aspen Wheeler.
Farmer will be the ace of the pitching staff once again this season.
“I’m really excited to have her back,” the head coach said. “She’s a great leader, especially this year … I think after committing it took a lot of stress off of her, so she’s able to relax and just throw and play, which is really good for us because once she’s relaxed that’s when she throws the best.”
Kothmann and Magilke should be the big hitters in the lineup along with Brady Burton, who will take over some at shortstop but is really a utility player who can play anywhere.
The Lady Badgers have a couple of new district opponents in Taylor and Salado, and they will not play Lago Vista in district this season.
The Lady Eagles of Salado boast a very successful softball program and will present a challenge. The district should be tough, but the Lady Badgers believe they can play with anyone.
“My expectation this year is to be at least second or third in district …,” Brookreson said. “I’m very confident that our team is going to be one of the top three.”
The Lampasas softball team is competing at a tournament at Midlothian Heritage through Saturday. The Lady Badgers will begin district play on March 4 when they head to Salado.
The season will conclude April 17 at home against Burnet.
