Improved defense key to Bulldogs' state chances

SANDPOINT — Led by both the potent arm and bat of junior Maggie Kirscher, and featuring improved defense and team chemistry, the Sandpoint softball team is looking to finally break through in the 4A North for a trip to the state tournament in 2011.

Spending the first couple weeks of a season confined to a gym is a great way to test how well a team gets along, and Bulldogs head coach Derek Dickinson has liked what he’s seen so far in terms of chemistry.

“The girls are focused and working hard for a unified goal,” said Dickinson, who is well accustomed to the slow start to spring sports. “Our goal is to get to state, and it will be a tough haul.”

Leading the charge will be Kirscher, who spent part of the off-season working with a pitching guru and begins the season as the staff ace after hardly pitching last year. Dickinson is expecting big things from Kirscher both on the mound and at the dish, where she features a power bat from the clean up spot.

“We’re ready for her to be our workhorse,” Dickinson said, also calling her a prime bat. “We’ll look to her to be the run producer. She has the power, having hit a few home runs last year, and we’re hoping to have some runners on base for her.”

Senior Kym DaVault returns with plenty of varsity experience, and will be the No. 2 starter when she’s not playing first base. She throws strikes, and in her fourth year in the program, brings great consistency to the mound.

Rounding out the pitching staff will be senior Brittany Johnson, who has improved a ton and can throw some serious gas out of the bullpen.

Offensively, coaches are hoping do-everything utility player Kayanna Quigley can provide some sparks at the leadoff spot, helping set the table for not only Kirscher, but senior Jesse Mead, a pivotal player who returns after missing last year with a knee injury.

“If Jesse has a big year, it will be key for us,” said Dickinson, who loves her range in centerfield and ability at the plate. “She has quick hands and hits the ball hard. She is extremely fast when she gets on base.”

Senior Jamie Elsfelder will also be counted on to provide some punch to the batting order. She boasts a big arm at third base, and could be a key player if she continues to progress.

Last year defensive miscues cost the Bulldogs a lot of close games, and while it’s early and the team has yet to practice on grass, it’s an area that should improve greatly and help the Bulldogs compete with Lakeland and Moscow for the lone state berth.

“Defense has always been an issue, just making the routine play,” said Dickinson of the past few seasons. “We have the potential to play really solid defense, and I think our outfield could be really stout.”

The Bulldogs, who had 33 players turn out this year, open the season on Saturday at the Lewiston Invite.