Although Freedom High School's softball team is happy going with the flow regarding weather-related issues, the excitement about getting the season started is what it all boils down to, according to Freedom coach Nora Borger.

"I wish it didn't snow [on Friday]. Now we have three games to reschedule," she said. "The girls look great, they get along, they know each other well, and they're happy."

Returning pitchers this season will be Shayla Peterson and Kylee Schwind.

"They both look good. Both have gotten significantly stronger and quicker. They've improved on their off-speed pitching, and they're experienced. They're taking more of a leadership role. They know what they're doing," said Borger.

Likely starters will include Hunter Schantz at first base, Alexis Szaro at second base, Brenda Reninga at shortstop, and Lauren Guidetti at catcher.

Megan Brown and Dana Pollock will return as outfielders.

Also on the Patriot roster are Abigail Dougherty, Loren Miller, Cozette Smith, Jana Bokson, Camryn Spina, and Julia Roman, a freshman.

"Julia looks like she's been playing for a million years. She understands the game, she has a strong arm, and she's a good hitter," Borger said.

Brown, Guidetti, and Pollock are Freedom's captains.

Borger said," We have a really good defense, and our hitting [is strong]. They've played together for awhile, and they've been playing for me for three years so we understand each other. I want to be able to give everyone playing time."

The Patriots are working on some mental aspects of the game.

"Trying to think ahead of the runner on defense, being one step ahead of the other team, getting a good jump for stealing," said Borger. "The whole team has good cohesion now."

Because of the new East Penn Conference, the Patriots will not be playing Whitehall and Emmaus this season. They will, however, face Pleasant Valley and Stroudsburg from the former Mountain Valley Conference.

"Pleasant Valley is always good. Stroudsburg has a good team, and the coach at East Stroudsburg South has them playing well," Borger said.