Large veteran group has Barker pointing to a strong run for top N-O softball honors

Photo by Cheryl Wertman – Barker’s large veteran group includes, in front, Madelina Pavlock, Kaylee Stoll, Mady Flint, Arnie Sturtevant and Macie May. In back are Rachel Sutter, Anna Bowerman, Natalie Brandel, Peyton Bradley, Samantha Murphy and Petra Bish.

Having finished in the runner-up spot last spring, Barker returns a veteran laden squad with which to again challenge for top Niagara-Orleans League softball honors.

That large veteran group includes seniors Petra Bish (Outfield), Anna Bowerman (Infield), Natalie Brandel (Pitcher/Inf.), Macie May (OF), Samantha Murphy (OF) and Rachel Sutter (Utility) along with sophomores Peyton Bradley (P/Inf.), Madelina Pavlock (U), Kaylee Stoll (Inf.) and eighth graders Mady Flint (P/Inf.) and Arnie Sturtevant ((P/U).

Brandell and Bradley both earned first team N-O All-League honors last spring while Bowerman and Stoll were second team selections.

“We have a real good group back with three pitchers which is big for us,” said Aileen Gilbert who is co-coaching the team with Bill Moeller.

Barker’s graduation loses included first team All-League infielder Mia Herman along with Honorable Mention selections Lilly Monthony and Aaliyah Wheat.

Barker, which went 9-3 in N-O competition and 14-4 overall last spring, is scheduled to open the league campaign against defending champion Akron on April 10. The Lady Bulldogs have five non league games scheduled prior to that beginning at home against Pembroke on Thursday.