Two seniors to play key roles for Shawnee softball

First-year Shawnee High School softball coach Nathan Pitts is looking at the end of the season for big results for the Lady Reds.

“I’m hoping they do like they did in basketball and make a run in the regional,” Pitts said.

Pitts is looking at two seniors, pitcher Autumn McMahan and catcher/shortstop Lacy Persutti, to lead the team.

“Autumn throws hard and hits the right spots really well,” Pitts said. “I look for both of them to help lead the team. They’re like having coaches on the field.”

The other senior on the squad is outfielder Morgan Patterson.

A trio of juniors include first baseman Olivia Jackson, outfielder Kirsten Pitts and infielder/outfielder Jayclen Persutti.

Sophomores in the mix are infielder Mariah Faire, shortstop/catcher Hannah Sichling and outfielder Angela Dodson.

Freshmen hopefuls are pitcher/utility player Aut umm Derosett and outfielder Alivia Bade.

 The larger class schools has the coach a little concerned.

“We worry about playing bigger schools,” he said. “But once we get in conference, we hope to be competitive.”

Shawnee has a busy first week.

The Lady Reds open their season Monday, March 18, at Zeigler-Royalton and also play at Anna-Jonesboro on Wednesday, March 20, Trico on Thursday, March 21, and at home against Elverado Friday, March 22.