Despite a loss to Lyon County in the regional quarterfinals, the University Heights Academy Lady Blazers were enjoying some positive vibes at the end of the 2021 softball season. UHA had knocked of Hopkinsville 12-2 in the 8th District semifinals to earn their first trip to the regional tournament since 2017, and that was coming off not having a season in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Additionally, the six wins for the Lady Blazers were double their number of victories from the 2019 season and the highest number since the 2017 season.
After being “light” in terms of senior leadership on the roster in 2021, the Lady Blazers will have a core of four seniors to build around in 2022. Jaila Batey, Breanna Daniel, Regan Pollard, and MacKenzie Young will carry the mantle of experience for UHA as the new season gets underway.
Consistently generating offense will be a key for the Lady Blazers this season. In ten games in 2021, UHA was held to 2 runs or less, eight of those were shutouts.
A name to watch on offense will be Krista Keller who had a big day in the district semifinal win last season. Regan Pollard and Mallory Ladd will also be expected to provide some needed offensive punch.
Pollard and Ladd saw most of the time in the circle last season for the Lady Blazers and should again this season. Limiting the “free” opportunities for opposing hitters will be a must for UHA this season if they hope to continue the improvements they made in 2021.
Home games, outside of the usual district contests, on the schedule this year include Trigg County, Hopkins Central, Todd Central, Russellville, and Crittenden County.
Road trips for the Lady Blazers will include stops at Todd Central, Heritage Christian, Crittenden County, and Christian Fellowship.
The Lady Blazers are set to officially open the season Tuesday when they host Trigg County.
