By Kelvin Butler
UNIVERSITY CENTER – After a strong 26-20 season last year where the Pioneer softball team reached the regional championship in Ohio — losing 1-0 to Schoolcraft — this year’s team is looking like a national contender with plenty of talent on the roster.
Head coach Andrew Ornelas recruited five high school star players looking to continue their success at the college level.
“We brought in plenty of talent for our freshman class,” says Ornelas. “Obviously I could talk about all of them, but they all bring a unique talent to the field. If I had to say one right now it would be Karlie David, who has proven to be an unbelievable outfielder with super speed. She will also score a lot for us because of her speed and smarts on the base path.”
With their experience, the returning players will be the most vital to this team’s success. Their first base, Allison Robbins, led the country last year in putouts. They also have a very strong and smart second base, Peyton Hubel. Returning pitcher Gillian Schloop played third base last season. She is throwing very hard right now and they will be counting on her as their most experienced pitcher. Kelsie Dilts, an all-conference shortstop – and possibly future all-American – is a sponge at shortstop and the best power hitter. She batted .400 last season.
They have two outstanding outfielders. One of the outfielders is Lorraina Kelly, center field, who has the best arm on the team and is one of the best and smartest hitters at the plate. She will undoubtedly score many RBIs for them this year. The other is their left fielder, Halle Reed, who is always consistent at the bat, their best bunter and has a great ability to track the ball in the outfield.
Jacinda Rezler is joining the staff this year as a volunteer coach.
“She was our starting second base last year,” says Ornelas. “She brings tons of maturity and experience to the team.”
With these talented, skilled players, Ornelas thinks they can become the regional champions, then make it into the NJCAA National Championship Tournament and win it all — especially considering they almost tasted sweet victory last year in the regional tournament.
With all the excitement in the air, the Delta softball players and coaches are ready to go. They can’t wait to leave for Kentucky and Florida to start the season on Thursday, Feb. 27. Go Pioneers!
