Freedom softball coach Nora Borger will begin her fourth season as the Patriots’ head coach, and her seniors, whom she has seen through their high school career, will be vital to their success.

“I will be cherishing every inning,” Borger said. “These seniors mean a lot to the program and helped it grow. They are great leaders by example and voice, and they make life easier.”

Seniors include returning pitcher, Shayla Peterson, Brenda Reninga, Kylee Schwind, Hunter Shantz, Cozette Smith, Sarah Soska, and Alexis Szaro.

“Shayla looks good,” said Borger. “She’s hitting her spots, and her hitting also looks great.”

Reninga will take the outfield this year after playing third base last season, and Schwind will pitch and play shortstop.

“Brenda loves the outfield, and she is so fast,” Borger said. “Kylee is doing well too, and she knows the game.”

Shantz, who will return as first baseman, and Szaro, who will return to second base, are this year’s captains.

“We’re looking for really awesome things from Hunter,” said Borger.

Also on this year’s roster are juniors, Shalyn Banas, Jana Boksan, Arielle Gonzalez, and Camryn Spina, sophomore, Julia Roman, and freshman, Taylor Resetar.

Borger sees the Patriots’ motivation and morale as major strengths.

“They’re very happy, and they get a long great,” Borger said. “I’m looking for consistency from all of them. We’ve been working on speed, conditioning, and lifting a lot. We should have good power-hitting, some speed on the bases, and a balanced offensive attack. One game at a time.”