Experience will be the name of the game for the Paden City Lady Wildcat softball team this season, as the team will be returning eight solid players to the roster.

Hoping to better their 10-15 ’09 season, head coach Penny Baker is looking forward to the 2010 season, saying things are looking up for the program.

“We have a lot of experience back,” she said. “Girls that know what they’re doing and have been part of the program for a couple of years. They know what we expect of them and they’ve shown they’re willing to work hard.”

Returning to the team are three seniors who will lead the team: Stephanie West (outfield), Amber Palmer (pitcher, outfield), and Courtney Conaway (1st base). Also returning with experience on the field will be Dominique Craft (catcher), Bethany Arnett (3rd, pitcher), Katie Kline (outfield), Kelsey Loub (shortstop, pitcher) and Ashley Efaw (2nd base, catcher).

The ‘Cats will also put dependence on Amanda Tallman (outfield, shortstop) Sabrina Midcap (outfield), Kelsey Loy (pitcher, 1st base, outfield), Dana Becker (outfield), Hailey Wade (outfield, 2nd base), Samantha Shreves (outfield, 3rd base), Jongrak Khunisorn (outfield), Magdalena Gorfles (outfield), and Olena Terentyeza (outfield).

Paden City looks to be strong at the pitchers position, going at least four deep here at the beginning of the season.

“Four pitchers to go to is the most we’ve ever had,” Baker said. “And they’re doing very well. A couple of them worked with a pitching coach in the off season, and you can tell.”

“They’re all throwing very well.”

For the most part, Baker, and her assistant John Baker, say they have set their expectations high this year, but will be happy if the team can win half of their scheduled games.

The Lady Wildcats will begin their season on March 17 when they will host the Lady Hornets of Hundred in Paden City. Game time is set for 5 p.m.