The Wayland softball team is ranked No. 8 in the first state-wide Associated Press Division 2 poll.The Lady Wildcats last season went 28-11 and annexed yet another district, conference and regional title in what was supposed to be a rebuilding season after their state championship in 2015. Their season ended in the quarterfinal round of the state tournament.
Many veterans from last year’s “green” group return, including heavy hitters Sydney Urben and Bethany Teunissen, pitcher Abby Merice, catcher Leigha Morse and infoielder-outfielder Taryn Coughlin. Also returning are head coach Cheri Ritz, on of the winningest in all of Michigan, and assistant Nicki Cardosa.
The Lady Wildcats have had two playing dates called off because of inclement weather and finally will open their season against O-K Gold Conference newcomer Grand Rapids Christian April 11.
The rankings for the season’s first week:
1. Richmond
2. Escanaba
3. Saginaw Swan Valley
4. Vicksburg
5. Muskegon Oakridge
6. St. Clair
7. Stevensville Lakeshore
8. Wayland
9. Petoskey
10. Tecumseh
Honorable mention: Alma, Cadillac, Chelsea, Freeland, Portland, Riverview, South Lyon East, Spring Lake, Trenton.
Perhaps Hopkins should be rated a darkhorse in Division 3. The Lady Vikings won 24 games a year ago and are loaded with returning veterans as well.
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