Dexter, MO - The Lady Cats softball team has several new players this year according to head coach Starla Pulley. They begin their season on the road against the Bloomfield Lady Wildcats on Tuesday, March 22nd.
"Senior Lexi Laramore (first year) and junior Molly Simmons (first year) will bring some athleticism to the team and some grittiness this year," commented Pulley. "We have returning Kaylee Hazel and Tatyanna Little Whiteman, both sophomores, but played roles in the outfield last year and will continue to do so this year. Abbie Sandage is a junior, but hasn't been able to play due to an injury. She is pushing through and will be a great asset."
The team finished 8-10 last year and could break the 500 mark this year. They must stay healthy and continue to work hard and they will improve.
"We are fortunate to have a great group of young ladies that come out and work hard," continued Pulley. "It's not just about them, it's about what will be best for the team. We have to be more aggressive on the bases and execute more effectively with less errors. We have been working hard on pressure situations in practice as well."
Returning senior Kennedy Bess is a four-year player. "She is one of the most coachable players and just a great leader for the other teammates. She is always positive and tries to help other teammates," stated Pulley. "She caught for us last year and will do so again this year and she commanded that position. She is also a pitcher and versatile in multiple positions."
"Junior Kinleigh Chappell played short last year and is just such a great athlete. She is quick and I think will be even more comfortable in her shortstop position this year," continued Pulley. "She also can play pretty much any position I ask her to play. She is a great teammate and very vocal on the field."
"Amelia Jenkins, sophomore, is returning as a pitcher. As a freshman she did an excellent job for us last year and will continue this year. Even as a sophomore she brings a lot of experience to the team. She's a good leader and sometimes I forget she is only a sophomore."
Dexter will play in the Stoddard County Athletic Association (SCAA) Tournament April 18th - 20th. Swing Pink is slated for Saturday April 23rd. The Lady Cats will play their first home game on March 28th against Twin Rivers.
2022 Dexter High School Softball Schedule: (All games are at 4:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted)
Tue 3/22 @Bloomfield
Fri 3/25 @Doniphan
Mon 3/28 vs Twin Rivers
Tue 3/29 vs Risco
Thu 3/31 @Bernie
Mon 4/4 vs Oran
Tue 4/5 vs Malden
Thu 4/7 vs Puxico
Fri 4/8 @Clearwater
Mon 4/11 vs NMCC
Tue 4/12 @Charleston
Thu 4/14 @East Carter County
4/18 - 4/20 SCAA Tournament - TBA
Fri 4/22 vs Advance
Sat 4/23 Dexter Wing Pink Tournament - TBA
Mon 4/25 @Woodland
Tue 4/26 vs Ellington
Thu 4/28 @Senath Hornersville
Fri 4/29 @Caruthersville
Wed 5/4 vs Portageville
5/6 - 5/12 Districts - TBA
Roster: #14 Kennedy Bess, #4 Lexi Laramore, #11 Emily Hester, #1 Abbie Sandage, #12 Molly Simmons, #9 Kinleigh Chappell, #15 Amelia Jenkins, #10 Kaylee Hazel, #7 Tatyana Little Whiteman, #16 Kaden Jackson, #13 Alexis Sisk, #18 Payton Short, #8 Symphony Jarrell, and #20 Isabella Pittman.
