By John Leggett

Staff Writer

The Sumner High girls fastpitch squad missed a trip to last year’s state tournament, so this season’s Spartans are focused on securing a berth.

“Every year we set the goal of doing just a little bit better than we had the previous season,” coach Kim Franett-Fergus said.

The upcoming campaign will not be without its share of challenges, as priority No. 1 will be replacing veteran mound ace Katie Littlefield, who graduated and left some big shoes to fill on the hill.

Early practices had eager right-handed freshman prospects Allie Sims and Marissa Filipowicz dueling for a starting spot. Additionally, Sumner picked up a sophomore transfer from Bonney Lake in Taylor McCarthy, who could emerge as a potential starting windmiller candidate.

Another missing cog in the Spartan machine was created with the departure of hitting dynamo Rory Zambard, who was counted on for crucial extra base hits last year and stellar leather from her center field post. Franett-Fergus is assuming senior Kari Hester will fill the void.

Things are in sharper focus in the infield as seniors Mandy Humphries and Krysta Beers return as starters at third base and shortstop, respectively. Sophomore Katie Hester, who performed capably with the glove last season, will no doubt be called upon to serve in any infield spot that needs filling.

Behind the plate will be junior catcher Danni Babcock, who showed a cannon of an arm a season ago.