The Bogue Chitto Lady Bobcats will rely on their experienced veteran leadership as they look to reclaim the State 1A crown in slowpitch softball. The Lady Cats are ready to start their season Aug. 11 at the McComb Tournament.

     Bogue Chitto has 11 starters returning for the 2012 season: Adrienne Wallace at shortstop, Rheagan Welch at third base, Kerri McGehee at pitcher, Mattie Avants at left field, Alex Givens at first base, Earlneshia Dillon at right-center field, Marshonikique at extra hitter, Alana Nettles at second base, Christian Black at catcher, Colby Kirkland at second base and Mallory Allen at left-center field.

     Bogue Chitto lost one senior to graduation. She played a huge role in last year’s Lady Cats march to the South State championship – right fielder Josie Kaylie Crosby.

     The Lady Cats will have four seniors contributing leadership in this year’s squad with Adrienne Wallace, Rheagan Welch, Kerri McGehee and Lauren Wallace.

     “We have several veteran players back with playoff and state championship experience,” said Bogue Chitto head coach Scott Leggett. “We also have several young players on the team who have great potential and speed.”

     Leggett, 37, will be starting his ninth season at the Bogue Chitto helm. The Lady Bobcats hope to make a return trip to Jackson as they look to improve on an 18-13 record last year. Bogue Chitto finished with a 2-2 record in district play and finished South State runners-up.

     “We are looking forward to having a successful year,” continued Leggett. “We gained a lot of experience last season. We were very close to going back to state last season, but finished as South State runners-up.”

     Adrienne Wallace is one of the starters that led the team in 2011 with a .500 batting average.

     Bogue Chitto assistant coach is Denise Leggett. The squad has 24 players.

     The Lady Bobcats’ first home game will be against the Seminary Lady Bulldogs on Aug. 14. The junior varsity game will precede the varsity game.