NEWARK VALLEY - Although young and relatively inexperienced, the Cardinals softball team is hopeful for a post season berth this year after coming just short in 2024.

Despite the significant departure of Joslyn Wright, a do-it-all player that Newark Valley lost to graduation after last season, the Cardinals bring solid numbers into this spring.

"I have 14 on varsity and probably 13 or 14 on JV. Modified hasn't started yet, but we have 15 signed up between 7th and 8th grade," said head coach Val Fischer.

The varsity roster, however, will be reliant on youth with only four seniors comprising this year's depth chart. The rest of the Newark Valley squad consists of one junior, five sophomores, three freshman, and eighth grade starting catcher, Kaitlyn Keith.

Keith, lead the team last season in RBI's, on-base percentage and slugging percentage. Another key starter that coach Fischer will need production from is freshman center fielder, Haven Aylesworth. Aylesworth was top three in runs scored and stolen bases in 2024. 

Rounding out the returners with high expectations is first baseman, Laura Ludwig. Ludwig boasted the best batting average for NV last season. A newcomer to keep an eye on will be shortstop/catcher Lilly Cornell.

Plenty of focus could be on pitching in the short time leading up to opening day. "For my two pitchers it will be their first time pitching on varsity, so there will be a learning curve," Fischer said.

The head coach is referring to newcomers Abby Debolt and Polly Hines. They will likely make up the rotation heading into the regular season.

Rounding out the Cardinals roster and a fun fact this year, will be two sets of sisters. Senior, Hattie Sue Hines, who's sister is the previously mention Polly Hines, as well as Anaya and Haven Aylesworth. 

After coming up just shy last year, Coach Fischer is hopeful her team will be in a position to make the post season this spring.

"The goal is to make sectionals. Last year, I think we were one or two games shy. It was tough knowing that we just missed," the head coach remarked. 

"I have a really good group of girls. They have really good energy and are doing a great job of hyping each other and backing each other up. I can't wait to see that continue through the whole season," added Fischer.

Cardinals softball opens the 2025 season on March 31st at Dryden.