Deer Isle—The girls softball team is experienced with a large squad. First-year coach Hollan Oliver has high expectations for the season. With so many returning starters and last year’s freshmen having a year under their belt, we should have a strong team this year.
The seniors include Abby Stinson (captain) playing utility (wherever she is needed, Kaley Eaton at first base, Kristin Thompson (captain) at third base, Lily Gray at utility player, Sadie Rice at first base, and Haley Hardy in the outfield.
The juniors include Brienna Limeburner at shortstop, Katie Hutchinson at pitcher and outfield, and Brittany Gray at utility.
The sophomores include Kaylee Morey (captain) at catcher and third base, Taylor Hardy at pitcher and outfield, Rylee Eaton at outfield, Makayla Lebel at outfield, Grace Morey at outfield and pitcher, and Peyton Rice at outfield and designated hitter.
The freshmen are Maggie Bubar at outfield and Leighia Gray at outfield.
Coach Oliver was a standout athlete for the Mariners years ago, played softball at the University of Vermont, and has a doctorate in physical therapy. She is being assisted by Caroline Goddard who also played softball at the University of Vermont and Amber Jones, who played softball at Southern Maine Community College in Portland and has assisted this team for several years now.
Coach Oliver mentioned that Taylor Hardy has been taking pitching lessons and hopes to be our designated pitcher. Consistent pitching has been our Achilles heel the last couple years so this is good news. A challenge for Coach Oliver will be to get playing time for the numerous non-starters so they can improve and feel a part of the team. Because of all the cold weather, we haven’t had much time for playing outdoors or scrimmages.
With most all the starters returning this year and experienced coaching working on building skills, this motivated group should be a contender and improve on last year’s preliminary loss in the playoffs. Bundle up and come on out to support them since it will be a fun group to watch.
The 2019 Deer Isle-Stonington High School softball team includes, in front from left, are Leighia Gray, Brittany Gray, Brienna Limeburner, Kaley Eaton, Grace Morey, Maggie Bubar, Lily Gray and Kristy Thompson. In back are Abby Stinson, Peyton Rice, Katie Hutchinson, Rylee Eaton, Taylor Hardy, Kaylee Morey and Haley Hardy. Not pictured are Makayla Lebel and Sadie Rice. Photo by Monique Labbe