The Bainbridge High School Bearcat softball team kicked off its 2013 season yesterday with expectations of a successful season. The Bearcats are playing in a season-opening tournament in Thomasville, which began on Friday with play continuing today.

Coach Amy Thomas is leading the team with eight seniors and hopes of contending for a region championship.

“I am happy with our effort so far in practice and we have been working very hard,” said Thomas. “With a large senior group this year, we hope to have a great season, but our main goals are to play together as a team and to stay positive.”

Anna Barber, senior center fielder, led the team in batting average last season and will again be a key player this season. On the mound, junior Brooke Bates will be the go-to pitcher for the Bearcats. Meagan Harrison will also pitch this season and brings a strong bat to the plate.

The first home game for the Bearcat softball team will be Monday against the Seminole County Lady Indians. The junior varsity team will play at 4 p.m. and the varsity will take the field at 6 p.m.

The BHS varsity Lady Cats this season are: Anna Barber, Brittany Moore, Brooke Bates, Caitlyn Dunlap, India Kirksey, Janice Watson, Laura Griner, Longeshia Emmanuel, Maegan Harrison, Magan Vaughan, Malasia Taylor, Morgan Phillips, Shea Williams, Shelby Maine, Taylor Jackson, and Zakiya Callaway.

On the junior varsity team are: Amber Robinson, Bethany Robinson, Chmara Johnson, Derrical Williams, Haley Thompson, Ieshia Smith, Kassidy Chason, Macayla Kirkland, Mary Trawick, Regan Cutchin, Reilly Fletcher, Taylor Swanner, Tyaisha Gant, Tykira Adams, and Victoria Sprenkle.

Players on the Bainbridge Middle School team, led by coach Lindsey Jarrett, include: Morgan Cannon, Shelbie Summerlin, Addison Enfinger, Cyan Gant, Abigail Gardner, J Harrell, Emily Chambers, Bailey Rayfield, Thyra Jackson, Bailey Brock, Tyra Smart, Ciara Jones, Allison Matthews, Jasmine Bell, and Halle Love.