Jessica Wyant took over a 1-9 team early in June last season, with Woodward-Granger going on to finish 7-31 overall and 2-18 in WCAC play.
The signs for the Hawk softballers were positive despite the record, and many of those pieces return this summer, bringing a level of confidence to Phil Creese Field that has been missing of late.
Returning to the circle will be Rian Jamison (138-1/3 innings, 5.82 ERA) and Ava Peterson (74 innings, 7.38 ERA), with Brylee Bice also likely to see some pitching duties.
Emma Anderson led the team with 30 hits and 26 runs scored while hitting .265. She was 23-of-24 in stolen base attempts and is certain to have the green light again this year.
Chloe Hogue (.244, 20 hits, 18 runs, 12-of-12 steals) and Audrey Simmons (.226, 19 hits, 15 runs) also return to help spark the offense.
Improved defensive play will be critical, as opponents will likely be able to put the ball in play. Hawk pitchers combined for 77 strikeouts but issued 111 bases on balls.
The season starts Monday with a visit from AC/GC. W-G will play at Panorama Tuesday before hosting Van Meter for a doubleheader Thursday. The Hawks will entertain Grandview Christian and Saydel for a pair of games Saturday.
WOODWARD-GRANGER SOFTBALL
6-15 AC/GC
6-16 @Panorama
6-18 Van Meter (x2)
6-20 GrandView Christian/ Saydel
6-22 WCV
6-23 @Gilbert
6-24 @Pleasantville
6-26 @Earlham
6-29 Ogden
6-30 @Madrid
7-2 Des Moines Christian (x2)
7-3 @SE Valley
7-7 @AC/GC
7-8 @Bondurant-Farrar
7-9 Perry