Head coaches: Lauren Bacsik (1st season)

Last year’s record: 18-12 (State Sectional Runner-Up)

Key returnees: Alex Pleasic (Sr., P), Gayle Pinchot (Jr., C), Christine Franklin (Sr., CF), Nicole Franklin (So., 3B), Izzy Bussanich (So., SS)

Key losses: Jenny Schneider (P/1B), Carly Parenta (OF), Olivia Beattie (SS), Carly Comito (C), Caroline Savianeso (OF), Dana Shulman (3B)

Key newcomers: Ashley LaGrosa (Sr., 2B), Nikki Dehn (Sr., 1B), Julia Spadafino (Fr., UTIL)

Strengths of team: Team Chemistry. “Our two captains are very good leaders,” said Bascik. This will help the team progress throughout the season as the newcomers and others try to find their role. Bascik and Lucia also think that the team’s power hitting will highlight team wins.

Areas that need improvement: As the team approaches its first game, it is still looking to fill in some empty spots. “Positions in the outfield are still up for grabs,” said Lucia. Outside of finding their best lineup, the girls are working on the fundamentals, such as hitting, base running, and routine plays.

Outlook:  “We want to make it as far as possible in the county and state tournaments, and I think that is very possible with this team,” said Mende. The Indians are looking to “bring their A game” every time they play so they can compete in their division and make it far in June.

Coach’s comment: “It’s nice to be back at PV,” said Lucia. “We’ve both been coaching JV and freshman at Hills for three years. I taught here for 25 years and Lauren is teaching here now, so it is nice to be back.”