By By Matthew Nascone
Last year’s Escambia Academy Lady Cougars softball team made the playoffs despite a 7-17 record and no ace on the mound.
This year’s squad found that ace in sophomore Flomaton High School transfer Jennifer Morris.
Payne said she would have three or four relief pitchers to give Morris a break on the mound. Talerie Singleton, Malori McGhee, Torie Rodriguez and Taylor Helton will see some action on the mound this year.
The appearance of an ace pitcher added to the hitting depth the 2008 Lady Cougars possess have Payne feeling upbeat about the season.
Payne said this group will pick up right where last year’s team left off.
However, when it comes to setting a starting lineup in the field, that is a different story.
No matter who gets the starting nod this year, the Lady Cougars have something many teams strive for.
This togetherness has allowed the Lady Cougars to think positively and hope for the best, but Payne has had to step in and be the voice of reason along that journey.
The Lady Cougars have set what Payne calls a reasonable first goal.
To accomplish those goals, Payne has made sure all the overlooked aspects of the game are taken care of.
The strong leadership on the team is something Payne said should help them obtain their goals as well.
The Lady Cougars are fortunate enough to have many leaders on the team.
The Lady Cougars hit the road to open the season. Their first game is Feb. 25 in Greenville against Fort Dale Academy. They then travel to Butler for the Patrician Academy Tournament Feb. 29-March 1 and Mobile for a game with Cottage Hill Christian Academy March 4.
The opening home game of the season for EA is March 6 against Faith Academy.