Emily Silberman graduated last year after missing out on her senior season due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the cancellation of high school sports in 2020. She finished as one of the best Salisbury hitters and pitchers in recent memory, recording 96 career hits for the Lady Falcons. She’s now playing at Moravian College.

While Emily Silberman has moved onto the next level, her younger sister, Marcie, is back as a key piece for head coach Jeff Appleman’s squad. She played an important role when the Lady Falcons (7-9 in Colonial League in 2019) advanced all the way to the District 11 Class 2A championship game where their run came to an end against Pine Grove.

Silberman is considered one of the better catchers in the league and is expected to be a leader on defense come the spring season. She also blasted six home runs and recorded 27 hits as a freshman two years ago.

“Our hitting has been a strength so far, and our offense should be good,” Appleman said. “They are aggressive and motivated to do well. They are coachable and good learners. Marcie Silberman is one of the best catchers in the league. This freshman class has the opportunity to be special.”

There is more talent returning for Appleman as well. Seniors Krystal Aungst (first base), Kayla Trenge (second base) and Katherine Lovelidge (center field), along with juniors Sami Peffer (third base) and Abby Lipkin (pitcher), will provide leadership for a young team.

Another Silberman, Haylee, is a sophomore newcomer that’s expected to follow in the footsteps of the aforementioned older sisters. Beth Carney (pitcher), Gaby De Jesus (outfielder), Taylor Jenny (outfielder), Riley Knecht (outfielder), Baylee Neitz (shortstop) and Amaya Shelton (outfielder) are all newcomers as well looking to make an immediate impact.

“We are young, so I expect they will make youthful mistakes,” Appleman said. “The defense is always behind the offense, but will improve as the season goes on.”

After seeing last year’s senior class miss out on the opportunity to play in the spring, Appleman is excited that this group has the chance to get back on the field. The Lady Falcons will open up their schedule on Saturday against nonleague foe Dieruff.

“I’m very happy for them [to get the chance to play this year],” Appleman said. “We have very nice kids at Salisbury, and I hated to see them lose a year of playing time.

“You only get one chance to play softball in high school, and I want them to get the most out of it.”

And despite the high turnover from the team two years ago that went to the district final, Appleman and Salisbury have similar goals for 2021.

“Our goals will be to improve and gain experience throughout the season,” Appleman said. “We want to make Colonial League playoffs and advance in districts and states.”