DECATUR -- The Decatur Bulldog softball team will travel northeast for its season opener against the Highlanders of Eureka Springs on April 6.
At the helm for the Bulldogs is Anna Wilkins, who volunteered to coach the team this season. Wilkins has been involved in coaching softball on various levels over the past few years and is ready for the challenges that face the Bulldogs in the coming month. With the talent that she has on this year's team, Wilkins believes they will have a winning season and earn a berth in the regional and state playoffs.
"I think we have a good chance of making it with the players I have this season," Wilkins said. "All the girls are ready and eager to play."
One of Wilkins strongest players is veteran pitcher Cameron Shaffer. Shaffer started in several games as a freshman, including one where she pitched a no hitter. Besides softball, Shaffer also throws the discus and shot put for the Bulldog track team. She was a a member of the Lady Bulldogs basketball team. During the 2014 football season, Shaffer became first girl to play on the varsity team at center.
One of the challenges the softball team faced was the weather. With the recent rains, the ball fields at Edmiston Park have been too wet and muddy for practice. They were forced to use Peterson gym and the football field to hold their daily practice sessions. In spite of this set back, Wilkins feels confident that her team will be ready to play April 6 (weather permitting).
In Bulldog Baseball news:
The Decatur Bulldog baseball team will be on the road April 3 as it travels to Springdale to take on Shiloh Christian Junior Varsity team. Game time is scheduled for 5 p.m. The team will travel to Eureka Springs April 6 to take on the Highlanders, with the game set to start at 4 p.m.
For a complete schedule for the 2015 baseball and softball teams, go to decatursd.com/athletics.
Sports on 04/01/2015