The Pigeon Forge Lady Tigers returns all but one of their 2008 regular players, and hope to build on what they started in last season. All of the starters return, and they have added a new arm to help with the pitching. Makenzie Oliver and Lindsey Vaught will likely share mound duties this Spring, with Annie Vaughn controlling the area behind the plate. Ashley Wojnowski will likely share duties at 3B with Vaught and SS with Oliver and her skills as a slap hitter will likely lead off the batting line up. Danielle Rauhuff is expected to start at 2B, and 1B duties will probably be handled by Madison Price or Jordan Harveston. Outfield duties will be anchored by Megan Kelly and Brooke McCarter with help from Sara Clabo, Erica Denny, and Price and Harveston. Other Lady Tigers that will be working to earn playing time will be Taryn King, Landry Foreman, Brittany Wood, and Imelda Meza.
Coach Jessica Sterling returns for her third season assisted by Greg Cole, and hopes to have a strong year. Still young, although I think that word is banned from our vocabulary, the Lady Tigers will likely start 2 Seniors, 2 Juniors, and 5 Sophomores.
The schedule is tough with trips to Hendersonville Soddy Daisy, and Morristown for tournaments, and regular games scheduled with perennially strong teams like Powell, Stone Memorial, William Blount, Seymour, Alcoa, and Jefferson County, plus the always tough district schedule.
The Lady Tigers should compete well in district 2AA this season, and I would think will battle with Grainger, Union, and possibly Claiborne for the District Title and the right to move on to Region play. I think Grainger/Rutledge has won the regular season championship 5 straight seasons and obviously has to be considered the favorite although I think they will may miss Brabson's leadership and the contributions made by Fifield both at the bat and in CF.
Personal note - This starts my seventh season as a parent in this district, and with the TSSAA realignment scheduled for 09-10, this is our last. We have over the years had our battles and rivalries, and I will miss this district after this season. I have gotten to know many parents and coaches over the seasons and will miss seeing you all around the ball field.
GOOD LUCK to all in 2009, and we'll look forward to seeing you on the diamond!