2008 Season: 20-15 (6-6 NEMC)

Coach: Kristen Pratley

Returning athletes: Jenna Zettel, sr.; Jacie Lucas, sr.; Kathy Erickson, sr.; Lauren Gillette, sr.; Ashley Thompson, jr.; Angela Carollo, jr.; Kate Dombrowski, jr.

New to varsity: Stephanie Gildner, jr.; Josie Wiltse, jr.; Shelby Marshall, jr.; Tori Rabidue, jr.; Kaylyn Shelley, jr.

Outlook: Kristen Pratley re-takes the reins of the Ogemaw Heights softball program after Chuck Wren coached the Falcons from 2005-8. Pratley was spent three years as the Ogemaw coach from 2002-4 and in her second turn inherits a squad with with seven returning starters and hopes to build on last seasons .500 NEMC finish.

"We have only four seniors," Pratley says. "However, our seniors are going to be integral in our success. They're all great leaders and well-respected on our team."

Those four seniors -- Jenna Zettel, Jacie Lucas, Kathy Erickson and Lauren Gillette -- were integral to last year's success as well. Zettel, the catcher, and Gillette, are in their third season as varsity starters, while Lucas (second base / outfield) and Erickson (primarily as pitcher) were big contributors as juniors.

Juniors Ashley Thompson (2nd team all-NEMC shortstop), Angela Carollo (center field) and Kate Dombrowski were all starters as sophomores, giving the Falcons a squad that is far more experienced than it appears at first glance.

Juniors Stephanie Gildner (first base) and Jose Wiltse (left field) also earned starting jobs, while Shelby Marshall will share time with Lucas in right field and second. Torie Rabidue and Kaylyn Shelley are also expected to contribute.

"We have a great group of girls," Pratley says. "Their work ethic and attitude have been outstanding.

"We know we have tough teams to get through this year, but we know that is the only way we're going to get better. If we're not challenged, we're not getting better, and that's what these girls are consistently working at."