Orange Begins Fall Practice
9/8/2009 9:40:34 PM | Softball
SYRACUSE, N.Y. – The Orange softball team returned to the diamond on Monday morning to begin preparations for its fall schedule.
“The first day of practice was filled with great energy,” head coach Leigh Ross said. “The girls have set the tone for the type of team we want to be this year. We want to outwork our opponents and play the game with passion, while challanging and encouraging our teammates.”
Ross is in her third-season at the helm of the program and will be joined by second-year assistant coach Wally King. The Orange returns 11 letterwinners from a 2009 team that compiled a 30-21 overall record and qualified for the BIG EAST Tournament, while welcoming five newcomers.
“It's exciting as a coach to have a squad that is so young,” Ross said. “Our returners gained a lot of valuable experience with our success last year. That, along with some new faces that have the potential to make an immediate impact is very encouraging.”
Syracuse returns starting infielders Hallie Gibbs and Stephanie Watts, designated player Kelly Saco and outfielder Lacey Kohl. Catcher Leah Porter and outfielders Rachel Helman and Nicole Lamison also return for the Orange.
SU also has the advantage of returning its entire pitching staff from last season, led by senior Brittany Gardner and 2009 BIG EAST Rookie of the Year Jenna Ciara. Junior Angie Sagnelli and sophomore Gaby Torzilli round out the Orange bullpen.
SU focused on its fielding fundamentals during day one of fall practice with several different fielding drills and infield-outfield practice stations.
Syracuse will continue practicing throughout September and October in preparation for its soon to be released fall ball schedule. Check back to SUAthletics.com for updates.
