HAVERFORD, Pa. – The atmosphere surrounding the Haverford College women's softball team this spring is abuzz with the promise that youth brings. A cast of new faces, including seven freshmen, exudes potential and offers quality depth which will both be crucial components to successfully competing for a playoff spot in the Centennial Conference.
Infield: Sophomore Jen DiCandilo, an all-conference selection last season at third base, heads the list of returnees. DiCandilo was a mainstay in the infield as she started all 34 games and consequently will provide a steadying presence for an infield this season with some possible moving parts. Other players in the mix are Jill Schnall, Lauren Touey, Laina Gagliardi, Stephanie Wolfson, Jordan Nieusma, Dayle Comerford, and Gabrielle Sapienza.
Outfield: Elizabeth Newman, another sophomore who started every game during her freshman season, will be an anchor in the outfield for the Fords. Brianna Lowey, Sarah Brody, Julie Garlick, and Sapienza figure to see time patrolling the outfield with Newman.
Pitching/Catching: Brittany Stevenson and Claire Fitzgerald, two sophomores who gained valuable experience last season, return to lead the pitching staff. Stevenson made 18 appearances in 2011 while Fitzgerald made 22. Erin Delaney will share catching duties with DiCandilo.
At the plate: Haverford boasts a trio of returners who hit over .300 last year. Laura Iwanyk finished second on the team in batting average (.349), doubles, and on-base percentage (.446). The senior also posted the Fords' third-highest slugging percentage (.465) and recorded eight multi-hit games. Third on the team in hitting was DiCandilo with a .336 average. Haverford's leader in total bases, hits, RBIs, doubles, sacrifice flies and home runs, DiCandilo also ranked among the conference leaders in RBIs and doubles. Newman finished 2011 hitting .300. She led the team in runs scored and walks while ranking sixth in the conference in steals.
Coach's Outlook: Head coach Jen Ward, in her eighth year at the helm, thinks there is a lot to like about this line-up full of new faces and young talent. "We are excited to work with this group and think we will be very competitive this year. We will have a balanced line-up and defend well," offered Ward.