It is an all underclassmen lineup this season for the Roy-Hart softball squad

By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 31 March 2024 at 10:16 am

Photo by Cheryl Wertman – Veteran members of the Roy-Hart softball team include, in front, Grace Pearl, Kaitlin Mettler and Millie Owens. In back are Hayley Hillburn, Peyton May and Abby Fox. Missing is Lila Brigham.

It is an all underclassmen roster at Roy-Hart this season as seven veterans lead the way for the Lady Rams who are prepping for the April 10 Niagara-Orleans League softball opener at Wilson.

Anchoring the Roy-Hart roster, which includes 8 sophomores and 7 juniors, is the veteran group of juniors Lila Brigham (Second base/Outfield) and Kaitlin Mettler (Shortstop) along with sophomores Millie Owens (Utility/Pitcher), Peyton May (Catcher), Abby Fox (Pitcher), Grace Pearl (Third base/Shortstop) and Hayley Hillburn (Outfield).

Mettler was a first team N-O All-League honoree and May a second team selection last spring.

The Lady Rams roster also includes juniors Emily Duewiger (2B), Olivia Marsillo (U), Jacie Craft (U), Savanna Holt (1B) and Caitlin O’Conner (Inf) along with sophomores Ryleigh Capen (Of), Alayna Kowalski (U) and Raegen Kern (Inf).

“We have a young team but we have good experience back,” said Coach Taylor Kneeland.

The Lady Rams graduation losses included First baseman Maria Peracciny who earned second team All-League honors, along with third baseman Juliana Buscarino and outfielder Emmaline Verratti.

Roy-Hart, which went 7-5 in N-O action and 8-7 overall last year, is scheduled to open the season with a non league game at JFK on April 9.