Season Preview: Rye Neck Softball

Coming off an 11-win 2008 season, Rye Neck was aiming to build on that success last year.

The Panthers did this, registering 19 wins, winning a league title and advancing to the Section 1 Class B championship game, ultimately losing to  Albertus Magnus. It was Rye Neck's fourth sectional final in the program's history and second this decade. Even though the result was not to Rye Neck's liking, the Panthers reestablished themselves as a sectional favorite for the 2010 season.

Veteran coach Joan Spedafino, in her 22nd year and with 352 career wins, and assistant coach/husband Frank Spedafino, in his 18th year, graduated four key seniors -- Liz Tucci, Amy Carelli, Danielle Amatuzzo and Alessia Laise -- who will be missed. However, the Sepdafinos return a core group of eight players who are primed to accept the challenge.

"That was a big deal because the season before we were 11-9," Frank Spedafino said. "We were very pleased with last season."

Not only did the Panthers waste little time in reacquainting themselves with each other, they immediately welcomed the five new varsity players. This has led to an impressive start to preseason.

"We talked about taking it one game at a time and the skills they have from the previous year and what skills they will work on now," said Spedafino, who plays in men's fast-pitch softball leagues. "Joan and I are pleased with how immediately they have shown the dedication they need to be successful."

Spedafino said the team gets upset when the coaching staff gives them a day off.

Included in the returning nucleus is a Rye Neck strength, pitcher Jessica Calvini. The sophomore is entering her third varsity season and has been a controlling force in the circle. Calvini gives Rye Neck a very solid chance every time the Panthers take the field.

"What has impressed me is how Jessica has progressed from year to year," Spedafino said. "She continues to work hard on every pitch, every day. We've been having her throw simulated games and there is not one pitch she throws that she doesn't treat with meaning. She continues to do all the right things that are making her a successful player."

Calvini will have a new battery mate this season as junior Vanessa Laise moves behind the plate for Carelli. Sophomore Marissa Bello steps in at first base for Alessia Laise, senior Nikki Amatuzzo will be the second baseman and sophomore Nicole Pineda is the shortstop. Sophomore Kristen Tamucci could step in at third base.

Senior Georgia Richardson and junior Nicole Maggio are back and will man two outfield positions.

The five newcomers are comprised of juniors Stephanie Sciallo, Ashley Cables and Katie Doong, sophomore Andrea Wurzburger, a catcher, and freshman Nickole Morgan, who will be the No. 2 wind miller.

Spedafino said the Panthers will continue to pride themselves on pitching and defense because these two aspects win games. Now, the Panthers are anxiously awaiting to start the season.

"The girls want to play and we need to see them play," Spedafino said.