SPSL NORTH FASTPITCH: AT A GLANCE
∙ FAVORITES: Thomas Jefferson, Auburn Riverside.
∙ CONTENDERS: Kentlake, Kentwood, Tahoma.
∙ SLEEPER: Kentridge.
∙ OUTLOOK: As the season sets to unfold, parity appears to be the name of the game in the South Puget Sound League North Division. Unlike the last several springs, Kentlake was not tabbed by coaches in the preseason poll as the favorites. Instead, that role went to upstart Thomas Jefferson and Auburn Riverside, which returns to Class 4A this year. The reason for the early optimism from both programs stems from pitching. Jefferson returns first-team all-leaguer Jessica Dickson (11-3 last year, 0.80 ERA) while AR returns standout Amanda Fitzsimmons, the SPSL 3A’s Player of the Year last spring. But Dickson is far from alone on a talented Raider team, which also returns first-team infielders Hannah Kiyohara and Jayme Carbon. However, Kentlake cannot be overlooked. The Falcons have a tradition of excellence that dates back to the late 1990s and returns enough talent to capture its fourth straight SPSL North crown. Leading the way for the Falcons will be first-team outfielders Juliann Hartnett (.373 average last year) and Breanne Bilbrey (.349) along with second-team infielder Sam Beckler (.350). If Kentlake is to win the North again, it will need to find a reliable ace to take over for star Felecia Harris, who now is playing at the University of Washington. Kentwood certainly will be a factor, as well. Despite graduating Pitcher of the Year Kirsten Shreve, the Conquerors still return the bulk of their talent, including first-team infielder Jessica Glenn (.435 last year) and second-team pitcher Kayla Evans (North-best 0.79 ERA last spring). In addition, Kentwood brings back 10 players who helped the Conquerors challenge for the North title a year ago. Kentridge also should be a factor with do-it-all shortstop/pitcher Kelli Suguro and second-teamers Nicole Barger (infielder) and Danielle Orvella (pitcher) back in the mix. The Chargers did lose second-team pitcher Savannah Bommarito, who decided not to turn out for the team this year. Kent-Meridian remains young, but the Royals are on the rise with a bevy of young talent, including sophomore Priscilla Gonzales (outfield) and freshman Josie Handolero.
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