Andrew Has Half-Dozen Reasons to Feel Good About its Chances

Coach: Jim Holba

Last year’s record: 32-5 overall, 13-1 in the Southwest Suburban Red

Opener: March 25 vs. Thornton Fractional South

Quick hit: "With the addition of some very talented juniors and super sophomores, the pieces of the puzzle should fit together very well," Andrew coach Jim Holba said. "We will have more speed and versatility than in the past. As long as the girls stay consistent and healthy, we expect to compete for a conference title as well as being a top-four team in our sectional."

Infield: The Andrew infield has a lot of pop. Junior shortstop Katie Christner posted a .434 batting average last year with 35 RBI, two home runs and 12 doubles. She returns for her third year as a starter. Junior third baseman Shannon Rust had a .408 average with one home run and 22 RBI. Senior first baseman Katie Kelly hit .439 with 22 RBI and seven doubles.

Outfield: Sophomore outfielder Kelly Christner earned all-conference and all-area honors after hitting .559 with 50 RBI, three homers, 11 triples and 15 doubles. She had a 24-game hitting streak. Senior Jessie Tucker returns after hitting .377 with one homer, 29 RBI and 11 doubles.

Pitching staff: The staff will be anchored by junior Brooke Hofer. She went 15-5 with a 2.74 ERA.

Coach Holba says: "We will have a successful season if we pitch well, play good defense and due the little things well at bat.  We will not have the power bats we had in the past, but we will have speed to use to take extra bases and put pressure on the opponent's defense.  We are young, but experienced—three seniors, many juniors and two sophomores."

College recruits: Katie Christner, Wisconsin