By Kyle Yehle
Special to the Citizen
After leading a rising West Platte team to sure signs of improvement through the first two years of her tenure, softball coach Bailee Giger will have another challenge added to her plate this season - losing a wealth of senior experience.
Six varsity starters graduated off of the Blue Jays’ 8-13 team in 2017, which earned the No. 1 seed in the Class 1 District 14 tournament through a strong stretch of games in late August and mid-September. In that span, West Platte won its home invitational and recorded victories in six of eight games.
All-Regional first-team players senior outfielder Lea Moose and junior pitcher Karah Dunham return, along with senior shortstop/third baseman and team captain Taylor McNair. Senior pitcher/infielder Mallory Chambers and freshman catcher Hailey Shepardson also figure to make an impact. They’ll be tasked with filling the cleats of last year’s standouts - four-year starter and first baseman Rachel Heili, shortstop Kaitlin Larison and catcher Sikoya Richard.
Citizen file photo
West Platte’s Karah Dunham delivers a pitch to a North Platte batter during a game last season. Dunham is a returning all-conference pick for the Bluejays.
Giger says players will have ample chances to battle it out for the open spots.
“Our younger girls have an opportunity to make an impact right away and we will have competition within the team for positions,” Giger said. “They have been in the weight room and at open fields all summer, so hopefully, that work ethic and determination rolls over into our season.”
While improving last year, the Blue Jays ended the season winless in the KCI Conference. 2018 looks to be no easier, with powerhouse Lathrop returning dominant senior pitcher Brooke Huitt. The Missouri State commit has led the Mules to three Class 2 state appearances in a row, with a state title in 2015 to boot. Plattsburg and Penney also present tough matchups, both nearly coming off 20-win seasons.
Giger says with the new cast of starters, it’s critical for West Platte to focus on the fundamentals.
“Our keys to success are keeping fielding errors low, so we support our pitchers, as well as putting the ball in play and being smart around the base paths,” Giger said.