2007 Season Outlook
February 2007

This year, the Raiders look to build upon its momentum from the 2006 season under third-year head coach Glen Watson.

“We know we’re not going to be able to sneak up on anyone this year,” said Watson, whose 2006 team finished 22-18. “However, this year’s squad has the talent to be just as good, if not better. One thing is for sure, we’ll be in every game and never quit.”

All-conference selections Amanda Kasdorf (Maine West) and Siobhan Mischke (Maine South) return to solidify the offense and provide valuable leadership. Last season, Kasdorf led the team in home runs while batting .500, and Mischke’s 12 doubles represented a team high. The Raiders also return JoAnna Fugate (Niles North) and Reema Shadid (Maine West).

Last season, the Raiders relied heavily on the arm of sophomore pitcher Carrie McCoy who led in innings pitched and victories. However, Watson realized that one pitcher can’t carry the entire load and made recruiting at this position a priority. This year’s team has pitching depth with four “young guns” – Hannah Martin (Rolling Meadows), an MSL All-Conference and All-Area pitcher; Allie Abezetian (Maine South); Rachael Powell (Maine West); and Gerry Hood (Hersey).

“These new players give us depth for the next two seasons,” Watson said. “These four talented players also can provide punch at the plate and on the field defensively.”

The Raiders also replenished themselves at catcher. Oakton lost last season’s starter Kathy Zier, who was a workhorse behind the plate logging more than 200 innings. However, Trish Ofenloch (Fremd) is expected to be a more than capable replacement with her offensive prowess and intensity.

Other key additions for 2007 include Tennessee Junior College transfer Brittany Hughes, a hard-hitting player who can play any position, and Nicole Cameron (Maine South), another versatile player who has one of the strongest arms on the team.

Also joining the Raiders this year are Michelle Polka (Maine South), Nicole Rodriguez (Roosevelt), and Monika Rohall (Maine East), who will compete for outfield and infield positions while adding needed depth and speed.

“It’s nice to be in this position having so many players competing for spots,” Watson said. “When I took over in 2005, I only had a handful of players.”

Oakton begins the 2007 season March 12 in Orlando playing eight games in four days to prepare for Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference play.

 

Oakton Softball 2006 Award Winners

Susan Domenick (New Trier)
All-American Second team
All-Region IV First Team
All-Skyway Conference First Team

Carrie McCoy (Wheeling)
All-Region IV First Team
All-Skyway Conference First Team
All East-West Region IV Tourney Team

Siobhan Mischke (Maine South)
All-Skyway Conference Second Team

Amanda Kasdorf (Maine West)
All-Region IV Second Team
All-Skyway Conference
All East-West Region IV Tourney Team

Kathleen Zier (New Trier)
All-Skyway Conference Second Team

Darcy Leslie (Mather)
All Region IV Tournament Team

Christine Eberhardt (Mather)
All-Region IV Tournament Team