Success may spill into MHS softball
Marion High School head softball coach Charlotte Waner might have been disappointed by her team's roller-coaster-like season last year, but the consolation of a tough season in 2002 might be that she lost only two players to graduation.
The Warriors finished last season with an 11-10 record overall.
Marion was surprised in the first round of regional play by Hillsboro, who nipped Marion in two games 7-2 and 9-2.
As disappointing as the losses were to Waner, she said it might have fueled her teams' competitive fire for the upcoming season.
"I was disappointed that the girls lost last year, mostly because I knew we could have done better," Waner said. "But this year, I think we have a very good team. I'm feeling pretty positive about our chances. If we play well this year we have a really good chance of going to state. The girls are shooting for state, and personally I think the girls would love to go."
The Marion team, which lost second baseman Maggie Powers and first baseman Jayme Steele to graduation, will have only one spot to fill in their defensive rotation because sophomore Leann Thomas split time with Moody at first base.
"I don't think we'll be hurting at any spot this year except for second base," Waner said. "Other than our first and second baseman, we return everyone on defense, both infield and outfield."
The Marion coach said her upperclassmen will lead the squad this season.
Ace hurler Megan Moore headlines the Marion softball team. The Warrior senior pitched about 122 innings and struck out 164 batters in her 2002 campaign. She gave up 128 hits and 35 earned runs, while compiling a 0.29 ERA.
Offensively, Moore hit .347, including 10 RBIs and three homers, and had 14 stolen bases.
Moore also was one of three Warriors who received All-Cottonwood Valley League honors. She also received Class 3A All-State honors.
Slugging short stop Emmy Bowers, Right fielder Nikki Moody, and Krista Zogelman are the offensive fire power for the Warriors this season. Both Bowers and Moody were named to the All-CVL team last season. As a sophomore, Bowers led the team in hitting with a .434 average. She also led the team in runs scored with 24, and stole 23 bases.
Moody finished with a .380 slugging average and stole 16 bases. Defensively, she committed only one error in 21 games.
Zogelman finished last season hitting .311, stealing 23 bases, and scored 21 runs.
Krista's cousin Heidi also will be counted on for offensive and defensive help this season according to Waner.
Junior Caitlin O'Dell, who was hampered by injury last season will also figure into the Warrior mix, along with Thomas and freshman Kara Holt, Waner said.
On Thursday, the Warriors will open up their 2003 softball campaign when they face Hillsboro. Game time is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. at the Hillsboro Sports Complex.
2003 Roster
Megan Moore, Heidi Zogelman, Krista Zogelman, Emmy Bowers, Caitlin O'Dell, Nikki Moody, Leann Thomas, Amber Richmond, Jill Hanaford, Whitney Wear, Katie Zogelman, Sarah Williams, Mindy Mastin, Kara Holt and Adriene Chamberland.
