Platte County’s Emma Reed is one of five returning senior starters from 2022.
The Platte County softball team is entering a new era after saying farewell to a senior class that led the Lady Pirates to a third-place finish at state in 2020 and 2021.
Despite graduating some talented players, Platte County is senior heavy with five of its six returning starters – Emma Reed, Avery Webster, Kallie Hitzelberger, Anna Crowell and Morgan Shields – being in the Class of 2023. The Lady Pirates will have some shifts among those players.
“Kallie and Anna will play outfield, still figuring out the other outfield position,” Platte County softball coach Callie Peoples said. “Emma, Avery, Bryli (Seifert), Allison (Riggs) and Danica (Salisbury) will all play infield. Still figuring out who will be the other infield position with Danica or Bryli pitching.”
Salisbury is a sophomore while Seifert and Riggs are freshmen. Webster has started every year she’s been in high school and is a reliable offensive threat, along with a leader.
“This team has already shown that we’re going to be aggressive on the bases this year, which makes me very excited. Our five seniors have all had quite a bit of playing time and experience. I’m looking forward to seeing them be leaders and mentors to the rest of our younger players,” Peoples said.
Platte County has been to a district championship each of the last four seasons, winning two of them. The Lady Pirates went 13-14 last year after they put larger schools on their schedule following back-to-back 20-plus win seasons.
“Solid defense and pitching will be keys to our success this year. The hitting will come as we find our groove. They will have to capitalize on opportunities given and pick each other up,” Peoples said.