Click here to listen to Head Coach Katie Larson
The Iowa Lakes Softball team will open up the 2019 season with their spring break trip in Florida. The team will compete in 12 games this week.
The Lakers finished fourth in the regular conference season and made it to the regional championship game. "Our goal this season is to just keep improving. We intend to take this team to the next level and do something that has not been done in this program for a few years," commented Head Coach Katie Larson. She is looking for the conference to again be competitive with many high-caliber athletes.
Kacie Salazar is a returner for Larson who will be integral to the team's success. She really developed last year at short stop and will be relied on to be an offensive leader as well. After a great freshman year the Lakers are expecting Salazar to be a big part in leading the team.
Yasmine Nix is another sophomore with high expectations. Nix was the go-to pitcher last year and Larson is expecting her to dominate this year. Her experience in the league will be a big asset both defensively and offensively.
Other returns looking to make a contribution include reserve pitcher Naomi Tolmachoff, catcher Laurie Custard, utility player Lexi Pallisco, and reserve catcher Jerica Walters.
Coach Larson has added some depth with this year's freshmen.
"Each one of them has come into this program with the desire to get better and take this team farther than it has been in a while. Each one of them is very versatile, which is great because it allows us as a coaching staff to have a lot more options," commented Larson.
The newcomers are athletic, which will give the team a lot of options and different looks. The Lakers look to be aggressive offensively this year with lots of speed. There are also a lot of weapons in the bullpen, which Larson hopes will keep opponents off balance. Games this season should be fast-paced with a quick style of play.
The Lakers have 13 home dates on their schedule with most games on Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday.
Photo ID: Photo of 2019 Iowa Lakes Softball Team attached.
OTHER: Interview with Head Softball Coach Katie Larson attached.
MEDIA: For more information, please contact Head Softball Coach Katie Larson at (712) 362-8367 or the Iowa Lakes sports information office at (712) 362-7928.