Having experienced players to open the season with is a benefit to any coach.  For Tecumseh softball coach Judy Williams, she has to be smiling about the upcoming season.

As the Lady Arrows open the 2001 season this week, Williams can look around the field and feel comfortable with seeing some familiar faces on the diamond.
“It all helps with the confidence of the kids, and they have looked better so far in the early scrimmages,” she said.  “We held our own against solid Division One teams (Fairmont and Centerville), and I am very pleased with what I have seen so far.”
Three seniors are being counted on for solid leadership this season, including the expected leadoff hitter, Jill Steinbrunner.
“She will play the outfield for us, and we are counting on strong leadership from her,” Williams said.  The three-year varsity player brings back experience in the lineup.
Another senior is Cari Campbell, who is an outfielder and catcher.  Williams praised her hitting ability and leadership. 
The final senior on the Lady Arrows roster is Cassie Cantrell.
“She should see some time on the mound for us this year,” Williams said.  “She throws really hard, and has looked good so far.  She has really worked hard this summer.”
The majority of the squad resides in the junior class, with six players.  One key one to watch is pitcher Erin Sims, who is one of four returning players in that class.
“She has a great change up, and can throw some junk,” Williams said.  “She is a different type of pitcher than Cantrell, but both are being counted on to help us.”
Alli Collins returns behind the plate, and is in her third year of varsity.
“She caught all last year for us. and is very comfortable behind the plate,” Williams said.  Collins will join shortstop Barbara Russell as key returnees on the infield.
“Barbara is a natural shortstop,” Williams said.  “She is ready to contribute, and is a smart player.  She really knows the game, now we have to get her completely healthy.”
The final returning junior is Alex Grueser, who will play both the outfield, and can play third base.
Two newcomers to the squad are Emily Lokai and Caleigh Leggett.  Both are juniors, and can play numerous positions.
“Emily can hit the ball well, and Caleigh is really fast, and we will use her speed,” Williams said.
Three returning sophomores are all key parts of the team, led by all-conference player Miranda Roberts.  She will handle the shortstop position for the Lady Arrows, and Williams knows she will produce for her squad.
“She was our leading hitter last season as a freshman,” she said.  “I expect her to do well again this season.  She can play anywhere for us.”
Also sophomores Taylor Jones and Megan Christmann return for Tecumseh.  Jones will play second base, while Christmann will handle the first base spot.
“This really could be our year,” Williams said.  “We want to surprise some people, and the girls are ready to get started.”
Williams stated that one of the strengths for this team should be hitting, as they are expected to be much better than last year.  While not having a lot of power, she hopes to play small ball and be productive.
One big change that will affect everyone this year is the new rule where the plate is three feet further away from the pitchers mound.
“It could give the batters a split second more to catch up with the girls who throw hard, but honestly, I don’t expect it to be a factor,” Williams said. 
Tecumseh has their home opener on Friday at 5 p.m. against Sidney, then hosts Trotwood Madison on Saturday at noon.