Fall practice has begun for the Winthrop Eagles softball team—a team that looks prime to continue the momentum that was built from the team last year that exceeded everyone’s expectations.
Last season, under the leadership of Coach Windy Thees, the Lady Eagles finished 30–25 (14–10 in Big South conference play) and were able to make a run in the Big South Tournament, ultimately coming up one game short of the title.
Comfort and experience are what will lead the Lady Eagles to success this year according to senior outfielder Tori Walker.
“I have very high expectations,” Walker said, “It is our second year with our head coach, so we are a little more comfortable and knows how she expects us and wants us to play.”
The Winthrop Eagles’ softball team lost key members such as their middle infielders Blake Wallert and Brooke Ellison. They also lost their top pitcher in Kiley Majette, who threw 400th strikeouts in her career. Morgan Lowers in also gone from last seasons’ team after being a key top of the lineup bat for the Lady Eagles after batting a career average .305.
“We definitely lost some key seniors last year that were strong on the field and in the lineup,” Walker said. “Replacing them will be tough, but I think the group of girls that came in this year have the confidence and motivation to be the best players in their positions throughout the whole conference.”
Although the Winthrop Eagles’ softball team lost some key members, they also have some contributors returning as well. Fresh off of a complete game shutout against USC Upstate in her last start, Bella Roy looks to compete to be the staff ace this year. Another starter looking to be another ace for this team is Madyson Watson. Watson finished with a career-high 15 wins, including a perfect 9-0 against the Big South Conference. Senior third baseman Ashley Westbrooks and Senior left fielder Tori Walker looks to bring stability in the middle of the lineup.
The softball team looks to propel in the Big South Conference Standings. With powerhouses Longwood and USC Upstate looking to be the favorites coming into the season, The Lady Eagles expect to shock the conference once again after finishing so close to a conference title. The team comes into the season with an edge. Walker believes that it is this drive and edge that will put the Winthrop Lady Eagles over the top.
“I think that hunger and drive will really come out this year and we will not settle for second best again,” Walker said. “All I have to say is the Big South better not sleep on Winthrop Softball this year.”
The Lady Eagles continue Fall Ball on Saturday, Oct. 5, as they play host to USC Sumter at noon and Lander University at 2 p.m. in a round–robin tournament.
