Softball
2008 Season Preview
Returning to the diamond after its most successful season in five years, the Clark University softball team does not intend to rest on its laurels. While last year’s 19-16 (9-6 NEWMAC) squad set six new school records and posted their best regular-season finish in the conference (4th) since 2002, head coach Linda Wage will look for the 2008 Cougars to approach this season one game at a time.
“It’s going to be a game-to-game focus,” said Wage, who celebrated her 300th career victory last spring. “With a young team, there’s the possibility of a lot of ups and downs, but if the group stays focused on the present and do the things they know they can do, it will build their confidence.”
With a roster comprised of 11 freshmen and sophomore, youth is certainly a characteristic of this year’s squad. However, Wage welcomes back eight letter-winners, including seven starters, to that mix. “I tell the younger players that no one is going to ask what year they’re in when they put on the uniform,” said Wage, “they’re just going to expect that you know how to play. So, go in with confidence and be ready and prepared.”
Leading the list of returning infielders are NEWMAC all-stars Lauren Blake (.464 BA, 23 RBI) and captain Heather Warren (.471 BA, 12 HR, 59 RBI). Blake, who also received all-region recognition, will return at second base, while Warren, the 2007 NCAA Division III statistical champion for RBI and All-New England honoree, will primarily play at shortstop and give Clark another quality arm on the mound.
Joanna Clark (.266 BA) and Darcy Kurashige-Elliot (.238 BA, 17 RBI) will also figure prominently in Coach Wage’s plans. A solid defensive player, Clark will handle both corners at first and third, while Kurashige-Elliot’s strong arm will also be utilized at the hot corner or left field. Alex Gauthier hopes to increase her playing time as a back-up third baseman and outfielder.
Captain Julie Parnell (.260 BA) will anchor an outfield that includes Chelsea Proulx, who will also play infield, and newcomers Marla Houghton and Heather Richards. Parnell, a steady and quick performer, will patrol center field, while Proulx, who will play multiple positions this spring, will help out at either left or right depending on game situations. Houghton, a four-year outfielder at 2007 Maine State Champion Cape Elizabeth High School, and Richards, a former captain at Glastonbury (Conn.) High, are in contention for the remaining spot.
The Cougars’ pitching staff remains intact. The ace of last year’s rotation, Melissa Traft (3.82 ERA, 11-5) should continue her strong play this spring. The sophomore standout will also add some punch to the line-up as designated player. Proulx, who saw limited time on the mound last season, will be expected to increase production this year, and Warren will add depth. Rookie Sarah Carter, a St. Peter Marian product and Worcester Telegram & Gazette All-Star, will also be counted upon to make an immediate impact in the circle as a starter and in relief.
With the departure of Lauren Ackein behind the plate, Coach Wage will turn to Julie Murray, a three-time Southern Worcester County All-Star, and Katherine Tutela, who led the Wahconah (Mass.) Regional High School team in hitting and RBI, to handle the catching chores. Although youth could be a problem, Wage is confident that the team has the chemistry and work ethic to compete.
“We have a large sophomore contingent that had tremendous amounts of playing time last year,” she said, “and they have developed during the off-season and are more confident this spring. “In addition, we have great senior leadership.”
While Clark will face stiff non-conference opponents, Wage knows the team will need to be more consistent on defense and more potent at the plate if they want success in the NEWMAC. “We’re focused with a long term goal,” she said. “Last year, we were able to beat every team in the conference at least once. “We’d really like to build on that and put some complete doubleheaders together.”
For more information about Clark University Softball, please contact head coach Linda
Wage at (508) 793-7637 or by email at lwage@clarku.edu
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