Softball team kicks off team practices

The 16th-ranked Virginia Tech softball team beganteam practices Sunday, less than two weeks before the first pitch of theseason. Players have been working out individually with their respectivecoaches – two hours per week, per player, according to NCAA regulations – but nowwill focus on getting ready for the season. With temperatures expected in the50s Monday and Tuesday, head coach Scot Thomas is hopeful the team can practiceoutside for the first time this semester.

Tech is the preseason ACC favorite and is ranked 16thin the NFCA poll. The USA Softball poll is released Tuesday.

The Hokies return a pair of pitchers, including two-timeAll-American Angela Tincher. Joining Tincher and Heather Lowry in the circleare freshman Kenzie Roark and senior transfer Elly Gosby.

The only starter Tech lost was designated player CallieRhodes, who could be replaced by her sister, Jenna.

Kelsey Hoffman returns behind the plate, and will get helpfrom Misty Hall, Amber Walker and Morgan Harris in handling the staff.

Stephanie Savre (1B) and Erin Ota (2B) also return. CharisseMariconda, who split time at third base and shortstop last year, moves back toher natural position at third due to the arrival of freshman Jess Hodge and Hall,a transfer, at shortstop. Hall will also catch some when not at shortstop. BethWalker and Dori Nunley will also look to break into the rotation at the outerinfield spots.

In the outfield, all three starters return. Senior CarolineStolle (LF) led the team in hitting and home runs last year and JessicaEverhart (CF) has started every game her first two seasons. Walk-on Whitney Davisis back in right field. Anna Zitt and Rhodes will also look for playing time inthe outfield.

Additionally, work is well under way on the constructionproject. Both roofs on the dugouts have been removed and are in the process ofbeing lowered. The steel for the stands is being put together behind thecurrent stands while the foundation is being formed.

Tech will open its season on Feb. 8 at the FIU Invite in Miami, Fla., taking on Pittsburgh and No. 25Missouri.