Older and stronger experienced players will be the key as the West Lincoln Bears kick off their slowpitch softball season Aug. 11.

     The Lady Bears will have one senior, Katie Hester, providing leadership and guidance.

     “We are looking forward to a great year,” said West Lincoln head coach Andrew Redd. “We have the people to make a run to the playoffs.”

     Redd, 44, will be starting his 14th season at the helm. The Lady Bears look to improve on a 7-16 record last year and a 1-3 record in district play.

     The Lady Bears have nine returning starters coming back to help in the field: Hester at second base, Bentley Sills at first base, Heather Moak at pitcher, Malori Hall at third base, Micah Redd, shortstop/outfield; Alli Mullins, infielder/outfielder; Layton Sills, infielder/outfielder, Karley Smith, outfielder and Brianna Fauver, outfielder.

     West Lincoln lost two starters to graduation last year: shortstop Marisa Pruski and outfielder Beth Montgomery. Pruski signed a softball scholarship to play for the Southwest Lady Bears.

     Hester is among the veterans returning and had a .403 batting average in 2011. Bentley Sills batted 393, Smith .288, Moak .362, Hall .368, Redd .373, Fauver .283, Mullins .357 and Layton Sills .450.

     West Lincoln’s assistant coach is Lane Young. Redd has 26 players on his squad.

     The Lady Bears’ first home game will be against the South Pike Lady Eagles on Aug. 16. The junior varsity game will precede the varsity game.