GROVE RIDGERUNNERS
Coach: PAUL COWEN
OUTLOOK
Grove will have to replace six starters going into the 2023 season, but head coach Paul Cowen believes his team can build off of last year’s success. The Ridgerunners went 21-11 in 2022. “We are looking forward to a young, energetic group of new starters this season after losing six from last season. We return a young group who we hope can build on and continue the excellent tradition of Lady Red softball,” Cowen said. Leading the way will be shortstop and VYPE Top 100 nominee Cheyenne Kunkel, one of three seniors on the roster. “Great teammate who makes great contact,” Cowen said. “Cheyenne is a pleasure to have on the team and is a great all around player who will hit the ball all over place. She will be an anchor in the middle of the order for the Lady Red this season.” Outfielder Elliot Geer is another senior who will provide leadership from the top of the batting order. “Elliot will play center field for the Lady Red. She will hit in the leadoff spot and can steal a base at any time,” Cowen said. “Speed is a part of her game, but she can hit for power as evidenced by her two home runs last season.” Danika Watson is another senior who will contribute this season for Grove. Incoming freshman Kenzie Guinn is expected to play a role in the infield. “Coming in as a freshman, Kenzie is expected to get plenty of at-bats and possibly start on a crowded Lady Red infield,” Cowen said. Junior Victoria Gonzalez will be Grove’s primary pitcher after a productive sophomore campaign. “Tori will become the main starting pitcher for the Lady Red this season. She had a solid sophomore season and is expected to up her game even more her junior year,” Cowen said. “The Lady Red’s success will largely key off her performance in the circle this season.”
Sophomore infielder Jenni Hiatt saw extensive action in 2022 as a freshman. “Jenni got a lot of at bats as a freshman last season. She’ll start again this season,” Cowen said. “Jenni is a great kid who is always doing things right on and off the field. Her academics are on point and she is a shining example of a kid you want on your team.” Other juniors who will play roles include infielder/pitcher Emalee Gregg, infielder/outfielder Holly Brice, infielder/outfielder Alex Dozier, infielder/outfielder Ella Kernan and catcher/outfielder Mylea Helmer. Infielder/outfielders Chloee Smith and Lily Reeves, catcher Gracie Dunning, outfielder Taye’lor Osborne, infielder Elaina Shield and pitcher/infielder Javen Buffington are other sophomores who will contribute. Freshman pitcher/infielder Brianna DeSilva and freshman catcher/infielder Jade Dillinger will also play roles.
