The Greensboro College softball team was selected sixth in the USA South preseason coaches poll. The Pride turned in a 21-19 overall record last year with a 10-8 record in conference play.
This year will feature a new look, as only four major contributors returning from a year ago. Greensboro will rely on the experience in the pitching circle, with Kelsey Sanfilippo, Hannah Pennell and Jackie Nicholson supplying a solid core.
The trio combined to earn all 21 of the teams wins, led by Sanfillipo with a team best 12-6 record. Sanfillipo also posted a 2.94 ERA, followed by Nicholson’s 3.00 average and Pennell’s 3.63 showing.
In the batters box, Nicholson brings the top returning bat after hitting .317 with 15 RBI. Reihle Kash is the lone position player back with a .258 batting average, 11 RBI and one homerun.
The remaining holes on head coach Whitney Gelin’s squad will be filled by 11 new faces. Among the newcomers includes nine freshmen and two sophomores.
The Pride will kick-off the season at home against Lynchburg on February 15.
2013 USA South Softball Coaches Poll
Rank Institution (1st Place Votes) Pts. 1. Christopher Newport (11) 121 2. Ferrum (1) 108 3. Methodist 93 4. Piedmont 87 5. Meredith 83 6. Greensboro 71 7. Averett 53 8. Maryville 49 9. LaGrange 44 10. William Peace 38 11. N.C. Wesleyan 34 12. Mary Baldwin 11