Chesterfield softball set to contend once again
By David Shelton
Senior Writer
Chesterfield – With memories of winning the AA state title two seasons ago, the Chesterfield High softball team is looking to make another run at the top prize this spring.
The Rams advanced to the district finals of the AA playoffs last year and return a host of players that are ready to make a statement. Chesterfield will be battle-tested all season from a very competitive region 4-AA schedule that includes North Central and Buford, two of the four Lower State finalists last season.
Graham Harpe is beginning his second season as the head coach. Harpe likes his team’s overall potential.
“We should be very competitive with any team on the schedule,” Harpe said. “We have a lot of pieces back and several have more than a year of experience. If we play to our potential and get everyone going at the same time, we have a chance. It won’t be easy in our region but it never is. We won the state title two years ago and didn’t win the region. The tough region prepares all of the teams for the playoffs.”
The Rams are 1-1-1 to start the season, owning a win and a tie against Dillon while losing to Catawba Ridge.
“Little sluggish and sloppy at times but I feel good about what we can be,” Harpe said. “I think this team will hit pretty well and score runs. We scored 14 against Dillon so that’s a good sign.”
The top returning player is senior shortstop Kayleigh Eubanks, a returning all-state performer and a fourth-year starter. Eubanks is joined on the left side of the infield by Kai Pace, a senior third baseman, one of the top hitters in the batting order.
Taking on duties at second base is sophomore Baylie Harpe, a returning starter as well. Senior Kendall Brock returns as the starting first baseman while sophomore Jamison Miles returns behind the plate.
“Defensively we should be pretty solid on the infield,” Harpe said.
Freshman Trinity Traxler is the team’s No. 1 pitcher but has help. Expected to see time inside the circle are eighth-graders Ashton Cassidy and Sydney Sowell. Sowell also starts in centerfield.
“I feel good about all three. Pitching is solid for us,” Harpe said.
Seniors Marah Brock, Michaela Lisenby, and Arianna Vanderpool are seeing most of the action in the outfield. Vanderpool is one of the top hitters and has pitched some in the past.
Rounding out the roster are Jenna Stafford, Jordan Evans, Justyce Sellers, and Harley Hatcher.
