By By Jamie Sullivan/staff writer
Feb. 21, 2002
The Southeast Lauderdale Lady Tigers will make history on March 1, when they travel to Philadelphia for their first fast-pitch softball game to open their inaugural season.
Southeast head coach Joe Miller said he looks for the season to be a learning experience for the young Lady Tigers.
The Lady Tigers will not compete in Division 5-3A play, because Miller chose to play as an Independent team this year due to the youthful inexperience.
As an independent team, the Lady Tigers can play anyone they wish, but come play-off time they will be ineligible.
In transition from a slow-pitch team to a fast-pitch team, you've got to have a pitcher and a catcher. Miller said he feels like Lindsey Raines will be his ace this year.
Miller said Tamara Harrison or Courtney Graham will do the catching duties for the Lady Tigers this year. Graham moves behind the plate from third base.
The left side of the infield will possibly be anchored by Lindsay Graham at third base and Heather Ward at shortstop. Both Graham and Ward are eighth graders.
On the right side of the field will be Madison Davis at second base and Shalonda Mitchell at first base.
In the outfield, the Lady Tigers will see the speedy LeAnn Workman in left field, Stacey McMullan in center field, and the lone senior Ashley Knight in right field.
Other players on the roster that may make a run for starting positions are Heather Harper at first base, Kelly Branning at second base, Niki Chatham at catcher or the outfield, and Morgan Dikes in the outfield for the Lady Tigers.
Miller said seventh graders Megan McMullan and Andrea Wilson will see limited time on the field as well.
Along with position changes, comes general adjustment for the Lady Tigers.
Miller said he is looking for leadership from players that have played slow-pitch earlier this year.
Miller is big on winning, and he understands what he is taking on with a new fast-pitch program.
Miller has scheduled seven playing dates and three tournaments for his 2002 fast pitch campaign.