Pre-Season Softball

Coach: Derek Asadoorian, 13th year.

Record last year: 7-13

Key Players graduated: Jen Johnson, Olivia Lexo

Captains: Celina Antonellis, Annika Liljegren

Starters

Tentative line-up:  Celina Antonells (12) Catcher/2B-Outstanding versatility, speed, excellent skills, a leader, two time all-star.

Annika Liljegren (12) CF - Looking to continue to build off a strong junior season, strong arm, speed.

Erin Olson (12) RF-Expecting her to bounce back at the plate after a difficult season, good speed, very capable hitter.

Alyssa Ash (12) P-Power pitcher, can be dominant, excellent hitter.

Rose O'Malley (10) SS - versatile fielder, starter at SS, (1B, 3B), strong on field/plate, can hit with power, looking for a breakout year.

Lauren Bieren (10) 1B/2B, P - multitalented, understands the game, consistent, expecting solid year.

Emily Figueroa (10) LF, P-earned a chance to be everyday player, intelligent, solid all-round, best outfield arm.

Ariana Cho (12) 3B -committed/consistant , intelligent steady player.

Caroline Thompson (10) and Helen Killian (9) competing at 1B/2B. Thompson is the most improved player from last season. Killian is a gifted hitter, skilled, gaining confidence.

Bridgit O'Malley (9) OF, SS, 3B-strong hitter, beginning to play with assurance.

Strength: Solid 11 players, lot of players returning, 5 senior starters, deep pitching staff; a cohesive, smart team. "They are a group of quality, very capable girls," said coach Asadoorian. "The team played well in a recent scrimmage against Chelmsford. I am very encouraged."

Concerns: With only 11 girls, we have to stay healthy. The schedule is challenging. Midland B is loaded and the four games in Midland A, Shepherd Hill, Westford, Tyngsborough, Algonquin will be a test.

Goals:  The Crusaders missed the post-season last year. "We want to get back," stressed Asadoorian.