RallyNorth.net

Beverly Softball Preview

Last year's record: 16-7  

Coach: Megan Sudak (1st season)

Returning players: Beth Cullen, Sr., 2B; Jayne Spiridigliozzi, Sr., 3B/OF; Jess Gagnon, Sr., SS; Christy Nichols, Sr., OF; Daryl Powell, Jr., 3B/C; Kiki McKenna, So., SS; Elise Perron, Sr., P; Kristen Lojko, Jr., P; Courtney Chalifour, Jr., C/2B

Strengths:  The Panthers don't return all-star players, but they have a lot of kids who played quality innings, and this is a team that played three games in the Division 1 North tourney last year. The team has two frontline pitchers in Perron and Lojko and the all-around potential is outstanding. Also, Sudak is a former Beverly player who has been around the program for years.

Concerns: Beverly lost a big bat in Nicki Nardella, who moved on to Trinity College. The offense is a bit questionable and the Panthers have to show mental toughness because a lot will be expected based on what they did last season.

Coach's outlook: "Their goal is to win the NEC and get back to the state tourney and win Division 1 North. They tasted it last year and liked it. We have two great captains in Cullen and Spiridigliozzi who bring so much energy to our team, but everyone will have to play a part."