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GREATER MIDDLESEX CONFERENCE
Red Division
METUCHEN
Coach: Michelle Huff, second season
Last season: 11-11
Top letterwinners lost: Leslie Flaherty (C), Mary McGrath (3B), MaryKate Cummings (Inf.).
Roster: Mary Jones (Sr., SS), Ava Barach (Sr., 1B/P), Mary Jones (Sr., SS), Hannah Mindler (Sr., OF), Eva Szap (Sr., OF/2B/P), Alicia Montalbano (Jr., 2B/1B/P), Kathryn Morano, (Jr., SS/3B), Adrianna Siedenburg (Jr., OF), Leah Dagan (Jr., OF/C), Olivia Miller (Jr., OF), Eva Fernandez (So., Inf./OF), Anna Knehans (So., Inf./OF), Sarah Lindeman, (So., C/Inf./OF), Claire Polakowski (So., Inf./OF), Sarah Gonzalez (Fr., Inf./OF/P).
Outlook: The Bulldogs lose a lot from last year but have enough coming to back to threaten for the division title. Seniors Eva Szap (3 HR), Ava Barasch (.458) and Hannah Mindler (47 hits) will serve as co-captains and will provide leadership on and off the field. Junior Kathryn Morano (.327, 643 slugging) had a breakout sophomore season and will be looked to for even more this spring. Perhaps the biggest reason to be optimistic, however, is her classmate, Alicia Montalbano, one of the better returning pitchers in the GMC with 120 strikeouts and a 1.68 ERA in 91 2/3 innings a year ago.
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MONROE
Coach: Marissa Vogtman, second season
Last season: 6-14
Top letterwinners lost: Ava Kwitkoski (SS).
Roster: Bianna Bukowczyk (So., P/SS), Isabella Rubino (So., OF), Brielle Zarsky (Sr., C), Monica Bukowczyk (Sr., P/1B), Brianna Lavan (Sr,. 2B), Kaitlyn Ventura (So., 3B/SS), Isabella LaGrasso (Fr., OF), Ava Lucadamo (So., OF), Alyssa Mustillo (Sr., OF), Lily Holeman (Jr., 1B/ P/ DP), Madeline Totten (Fr., Inf.), Natalia Andrade (So., 3B).
Outlook: The good news for the Falcons is they only graduated one senior in shortstop Ava Kwitkoski. The bad news is they must once again compete in a loaded division where wins are hard to come by and finishing anywhere above last would be a major accomplishment. Coach Marissa Vogtman begins her second campaign with a better feeling for her roster and the competition. She is counting on a quartet of seniors, Brianna Lavan, Monica Bukowczyk, Brielle Zarsky and Alyssa Mustillo to anchor what is otherwise a young team. Zarsky was second on the team in batting (.416) and slugging (.516) last season to Kwitkoski, who belted all four of the team’s home runs. All three pitchers return in ace Monica Bukowczyk, Brianna Bukowczyk and junior Lily Holeman. Vogtman is looking for contributions from newcomers Isabella LaGrasso and Madeline Totten, freshmen, and sophomores Ava Lucadamo and Natalia Andrade.
OLD BRIDGE
Coach: Angela D’Amico, ninth season
Last season: 21-6
Top letterwinners lost: Zoe Milonopoulos (SS), Dimitra Milonopoulos (C), Savannah Martinez (OF), Ava DiMartini (OF), Emma DiMartini (OF), Ava Accettulli (Inf./OF), Jaylen Campbell (OF).
Roster: Ava Pullano (Sr., 1B), Katie Gallo (Sr., 1B), Gianna Velez (Sr., 3B), Amanda Jupinka (Sr., 1B), Alex Hunt (Sr., OF), Brianna Sweatt (SR., C/OF), Danielle Flores (Jr., 3B/C), Gianna Lombardi (Jr., P), Nicolette Ampania (So., 2B), Kendall Riggleman (So., P).
Outlook: Graduation took its toll on the Knights, who advanced to the GMCT final and sectional semifinals with a senior-laden group last year, led by Zoe Milonopoulos (.452, 8 HRs) and Dimitra Milonopoulos (.452). Amanda Jupinka, who batted .384 with 20 RBI, is the top returning hitter. Junior Gianna Lombardi, who has handled the bulk of the pitching over the past two seasons, will be rejoined by Kendall Riggleman, who is expected to increase her workload from the 33 2/3 innings she tossed as a freshman.
SOUTH PLAINFIELD
Coach: Antonia Pacillo, first season
Last season: 21-5
Top letterwinners lost: Kelsey Geurts (Sr., LF), Lindsay Oller (Sr. 3B), Hailey Fonti (Sr., 1B).
Roster: Sophia Alvarez (Jr., SS), Gabriella Cicenia (Jr., OF), Daria Mazzarese (Jr., C/Inf.), Jocelyn Sosa (Jr., 3B), Ava Chapman (Sr., OF), Ava Cabrera (Sr., 2B), Erin Townley (Sr., P/OF), Emily Leursen (Jr., 1B/P), Ava Fusaro (Fr., C/Inf.), Amanda Townley (Sr., C/1B), Madison Matusz (Sr., OF), Nicole Swatko (P/Inf.).
Outlook: Antonia Pacillo, an assistant at Brookdale College for the past three seasons, and a three-year letter-winner at St. John Vianney, takes over for legendary Don Panzarella, who resigned after 43 seasons as the school’s head coach and No. 1 on the state coaching wins list (848). He certainly didn't leave the cupboard bare despite the loss of Player of the Year Lindsay Oller (.417, 8 HRs), Kelsey Geurts (.419) and Hailey Fonti (.349) from last year’s GMCT championship club. The Tigers return a pair of .400 hitters in shortstop Sophia Alvarez (.412) and Nicole Swatko (.430, 4 HRs), one of two returnees to arguably the GMC’s best pitching staff. Ace Erin Townley was 20-4 with a 1.16 ERA and six consecutive postseason wins, while Swatko’s ERA was even lower (0.57). Amanda Townley returns as her sister’s batterymate.
SPOTSWOOD
Coach: Vin Vizzi
Last season: 19-9
Top letterwinners lost: Hanna Brown (OF), Molly Walsh (OF), Bella Vitale (Inf.), Maya Redondo (Inf.), Alyssa Metz (Inf.), Julianna Fulinello (Inf.), Victoria Ziegler (Inf.).
Roster: Ava Mormile (Sr., P), Delanie DiStefano (Sr., OF), Hannah Graulich (Sr., OF), Lily Cunningham (Sr., OF), Reese Cunningham (Sr., OF), Sasha Soffer (Sr., OF), Ella Calandruccio (Jr., Inf.), Lara Yarnall (Jr., Inf.), Mikayla Ott (Jr., P), Gabrielle Hill (So., Inf.), Juliana Ziegler (So., Inf.), Alex Naul (Jr., UT), Skye Palacios (Jr., OF), Sofia Canastra (Jr., C), Ariel Di Pierro (So., 1B), Bella Mele (So., UT), Gabby Sannwaldt (Fr., Inf.).
Outlook: The Chargers graduated seven seniors, five of who played major roles in winning the White Division crown, and move up to the Red Division, but Spotswood still figures to contend for another divisional title. One of the major reasons is the return of senior ace Ava Mormile, who compiled a 1.90 ERA and struck out 238 batters in 158 1/3 innings in 2024. The GMC was chock full of talented freshmen last year but none performed at a higher level in bigger contests than Gabrielle Hill, who led the team in batting (.439) and slugging (.848), and drilled five of the team’s six home runs. Hannah Graulich (.333), Juliana Ziegler (18 RBI) and Sasha Soffer (.353) join Hill and Mormile (.341) in leading the attack.
ST. THOMAS AQUINAS
Coach: Missy Collazo, 16th season
Last season: 15-8
Top letterwinner lost: Hayley Wieczerzak (P).
Roster: Liz Negron (Sr., P/SS), Gwen Negron (Sr., C), Kamerin Collado (Sr., 2B), Brielle Cubala (Sr., 1B), Melody Webb (Sr., OF), Sophia Colucci (Sr., 3B), Alyssa Collins (Jr., OF), Hailey Krainski (Jr., C), Olivia Guarino (Jr., OF/SS), Ariana Barge (Jr., OF), Isabella Malinconico (Jr., 2B/SS/3B), Adrianna Torres (Jr., C/1B), Megyn Kerstetter (So., SS/OF), Leanne Higgins (So., P), Natalie Acevedo (So., 2B), Kylie Miller (So., OF, 2B), Brooklyn Daikalo (Fr., P/1B).
Outlook: The Trojans only graduated one senior, but it was a major loss in pitcher Hayley Wieczerzak, who was 2023 Player of the Year as a junior. Liz Negron, one of three returning first-team All-Area selections, will take over as ace after compiling a 1.75 ERA and 78 strikeouts in 64 frames last year. She also stroked six home runs and led the team with 26 hits. Her twin sister, Gwen, a .333 hitter last year, is back behind the plate. Sophia Collucci, who hit .358 with two home runs, returns at third base. Look for the Trojans to compete once again for the division and conference titles.
White Division
COLONIA
Coach: Nicole Donoghue, First season
Last season: 15-11
Top letterwinners lost: Amelia Carrion (SS), Megan DaCunha (P/1B), Shelby Decillis (C), Myiah Sutton (3B), Abigail Terebetsky (UT).
Roster: Keira Carroll (Sr., P/1B), Lyela Nieves (Sr., 3B/UT), Marisela Cardona (Sr., 2B), Rebecca English (Sr., OF), Arabella Palmeri (Jr., C/OF), Ashley Ayers (Jr., UT), Calissa Biezewski Carter (Jr., C/OF), Kayden Gordon (Jr., OF), Mariella Spina (Jr., P/1B), Mia Lavoura (Jr., OF), Sydney Leshnower (Jr., OF), Anabel Shubick (So., UT), Camilla Westcott (So., SS), Hailey Conklin (So., SS), Marisa Adrian (So., 1B/OF), Julianna Wittek (So., C/OF).
Outlook: Nicole Donoghue, a former four-year letterwinner, All-GMC selection and long-time assistant at Colonia, assumes the helm at her alma mater and inherits a roster with 12 players with varsity experience. Unfortunately, none of them are named Myiah Sutton (.469), the two-time All-Area third baseman who led the Patriots in hits (38), runs (33), RBIs (38) while drilling 16 extra-base hits. Colonia is looking to sophomore Hailey Conklin, slapper Sydney Leshnower (.339), Mariella Spina (.409), Marisela Cardona (24 runs) and Lyela Nieves to collectively fill the void left by Sutton’s departure. Keira Carroll, Camilla Westcott and Spina, who combined to assume more than two-thirds of last year’s innings, all return to give the Patriots one of the GMC’s deepest staffs.
EAST BRUNSWICK
Coach: Kevin Brady, 26th season
Last season: 16-10
Top letterwinners lost: Caitlin Gay (P/1B), Carmela DeMaio (CF), Jocelyn Nazario (P).
Roster: Annabella Stagliano (Sr., P), D’Liah Kercado (Sr., LF), Isabella Warrington (So., 2B), Maria Rampolla (So., 3B), Arianna DeMaio (So., C), Eva Munoz (So., SS), Gabriella Bagalla (Sr., C/1B), Rachel Gerould (So., CF), Christina Lee (Fr., P/OF/2B), Makenna Gay (So., 1B/OF), Lauren Walsh (Sr., SS/2B), Sara Hall (Sr., 2B/OF), Bella Wells (Sr., OF).
Outlook: The Bears graduated their leading hitter in Caitlin Gay (.488, 4 HRs), but look to improve on last year’s second-place finish in the division with a nice amount of talent back from last season that have a year under their belts. The departure of Spotswood to the Red Division also helps. Two of the returners are sophomore infielders Isabella Warrington (.408) and Maria Rampolla (.325, 4 HRs), who will fill spots in the middle of the lineup. Annabella Stagliano, who hurled 54 innings last year, is the lone veteran in the circle, with freshman Christian Lee spelling her on occasion. There’ll be two more familiar names in the lineup in Caitlin’s sister Makenna Gay, who will replace her at first base, and Arianna DeMaio, Carmela’s younger sister, who will move from right field to behind the plate.
JP STEVENS
Coach: Caroline Ratti, third season
Last season: 3-20
Top letterwinners lost: Emma Clemens (Inf.), Vanessa Yim (P/OF), Faith Fiumaro (1B), Isabella Malinconico (Inf.), Sofia Malinconico (Inf.).
Roster: Olivia Ricigliano (Sr., Inf./OF/P), Danielle Bosslett (Sr., Inf./OF), Anika Rusche (Jr., C/Inf.), Mayra Rajput (Jr., Inf.),
Diva Vachhani (Jr., OF), Yana Chaudhari (Jr., OF), Katelyn Damatta (So., Inf.), Jiya Chandel (So., P), Gianna Muscara (So., Inf./OF), Amishi Gupta (So., OF/Inf.), Catalina Jung (Fr., UT).
Outlook: The Hawks gain some schedule relief by dropping from the Red Division, but graduated three seniors, including pitcher Vanessa Yim and leading hitter Faith Fiumaro (.348). They also had two other players transfer up the road to St. Thomas Aquinas. Senior Olivia Ricigliano, who pitched the 50 2/3 innings that Yim didn’t, returns to the circle, with sophomore Jiya Chandel spelling her when needed. Ricigliano will also bat leadoff and try to set the table for Anika Rusche and Katelyn Damatta.
NORTH BRUNSWICK
Coach: Danielle Tamarana, fourth season
Last season: 17-7
Top letterwinner lost: Victoria Frobosilo (CF).
Roster: Jordan Tarabokia (Sr., P), Megan LaVielle (Sr., OF), Lauren Goldenfarb (Sr., 3B), Caleigh Shulas (Jr.,1B), Andrea Harris (Jr., OF), Kaydence Green (Jr., CF), Saiya Patel (Jr., OF), Gabriella Melendez (So., SS), Julianna Williams (So., C), Ashna Kalawadia (So., 2B), Isabella Azcona (Fr., 3B), Adrianna Kaminski (Fr., 2B), Kaliyah Polydore (Jr, Inf.), Angelina Landrum (Fr., P).
Outlook: The Raiders swept the Blue Division last season and were elevated to the White, where they should contend for another title behind one of the GMC’s elite pitchers in senior Jordan Tarabokia (16-7, 1.86 ERA, 226 strikeouts in 139 1/3 innings). North Brunswick only graduated one senior, but it was Victoria Frobosilo, who batted. 622 with 46 hits and has taken her talents to Hofstra. Everybody else is back, including sophomore leadoff hitter Gabriella Melendez (.468, 37 hits) and junior cleanup batter Caleigh Shulas (.386). Juniors Kaydence Green and Saiya Patel join Tarabokia and Shulas as captains and will provide veteran leadership for newcomers, like freshman third baseman Isabella Azcona. The Raiders will face much steeper competition this spring but should be up to the challenge.
SAYREVILLE
Coach: Amanda Koken, fifth season
Last season: 13-8
Top letterwinners lost: Jillian Bourbeau (C), Caydence Barton (P/SS).
Roster: Rose Joseph (Sr., 1B/C), Hailey Kilpatrick (Sr., 2B/3B), Danielle Zapoticzny (Sr., LF), Ashleigh Wisniewski (Sr., RF), Isabella Swanton (Sr., 3B), Katelyn Hernandez (Sr., LF), Josephine Vanore (Jr./, P/Inf.), Gianna Falto (Jr., SS), Mya Infante (Jr., CF), Sara Williamson (Jr., 1B), Sophia Matula (Jr., OF), Riley Arena (Fr., 3B/P), Marissa Shipman (Fr., C), Riley Swanton (Fr., OF/P).
Outlook: The Bombers finished third in the division last year and figure to contend again with only two players departed. Captains Rose Joseph, Hailey Kirkpatrick and Josie Vanore each batted over .328 and combined to deliver more than half of the club’s RBIs. Vanore, who took over in the circle last year as a sophomore, and compiled a 2.77 ERA with 90 strikeouts in 93 1/3 innings, figures to assume the bulk of this year’s innings. Riley Arena, one of three freshmen on the sophomore-less roster, will assist in the circle, and, along with classmates Marissa Shipman and Riley Swanton, is expected to contribute this spring.
SOUTH BRUNSWICK
Coach: Heather Wells, 14th season
Last season: 8-17
Top letterwinner lost: Gianna Angermeier (2B).
Roster: Brooke Allen (Sr., OF), Natalie Jairdullo (Sr., SS), Gracie Jairdullo (Sr., C), Jamie Bistany (Jr., OF), Amanda Buttitta (Jr., P/1B), Kaitlyn Trela (Jr., P/2B), Isabella Royle (Jr.,1B/2B), Trisha Govil (Jr., OF), Emma Galella (So., OF/C), Gianna Lagomarsino (So., 3B/SS), Alexandra Tadros (So., OF), Makayla Owusu (Fr. OF).
Outlook: The Vikings must replace Gianna Angermeier (.411) but have a solid core of veterans to build around as they adjust to more comfortable surroundings in moving from the White Division from the Red. Gianna Lagomarsino, who batted .402 with 35 hits as a freshman, will also spend some time in the circle behind returning starter Amanda Buttitta and Kaitlyn Trela. Leadership will be provided by a trio of seniors, Brooke Allen and twins Natalie and Gracie Jairdullo.
WOODBRIDGE
Coach: Mike Jago, second season
Last season: 11-9
Top letterwinners lost: Vanessa Morales (SS), Grace Musselman (C).
Roster: Quinn Boyd (Sr., CF), Holly Casaliggi (Sr., C), Adrianna Green (Sr., 1B), Kylie Rackett (Sr., 3B/P), Gianna Sheridan (Sr., RF), Adrianna Zarzuela (Sr., Inf.), Melanie Alejandro (Jr., LF), Gia Allan (Jr., SS), Mady Brenner (Jr., P/3B), Gia Pedde (Jr., 1B), Riley Vazquez (Jr., 2B), Taylor Woods (Jr., OF), Macie Mastrola (Jr., OF).
Outlook: Mike Jago takes over on a permanent basis after serving as interim head coach last spring. He only loses two seniors, but one was All-Area shortstop Vanessa Morales, who led the team in batting (.444), runs (26) and extra-base hits (13). Every other major contributor returns, including Wagner-commit Quinn Boyd, whose 28 hits shared team-high honors with Morales, Gia Allen (team-leading 3 HR) and Maddy Brenner, who posted a 2.84 ERA while throwing 115 2/3 of the team’s 127 1/3 innings a year ago. Seniors Holly Casaliggi and Kylie Rackett will join classmates Boyd and Allan and junior Gia Pede at the top of the order.
BLUE DIVISION
CARTERET
Coach: Brian Cherepski, seventh season
Last season: 10-15
Top letterwinners lost: Kallie Coghan (3B/CF), Gloria Sanchez (P).
Roster: Trinity Bernardino (So., SS), Cienna Diaz (Sr.,1B), Arianna King (Sr., Inf.), Miyah Knight (So., C/Inf.), Jayanalis Pagan (Jr., P), Daniela Portillo (Jr., C), Jesse Sendatch (So., OF), Erika Valdez (Jr., OF), Dallas Mitchell (Jr., OF), Angela Santiago (Sr., Inf.), Ashleigh Clavel (Jr., P), Johanny Galan Vasquez (So., UT).
Outlook: Trinity Bernardino leads all returning GMC players in hits (44), extra-base hits (23), home runs (11), runs (55) and RBIs (51) after her efforts last year as a ninth-grader. She batted .629 and was also second in stolen bases, while playing a solid shortstop. Her return should be a big factor in how high the Ramblers can compete in the division and chase a state-tournament berth. Both graduated seniors pitched at times, leading junior Jayanalis Sanchez as the only veteran hurler. Daniela Portillo (.355) and Jesse Sendatch (.306) will join Bernardino in the front of the lineup while fourth-year first baseman Cienna Diaz provides leadership and positive vibes.
EAST BRUNSWICK MAGNET
Coach: Melissa Gustray, first season
Last season: 15-7
Top letterwinners lost: Aralyn Torres (P), Rayna Serronico (1B/P).
Roster: Addison Calabrese (Sr., SS), Melanie Jimenez (Sr., CF), Sarah Sanchez (Sr., LF/1B), E’Myah Bartee (Sr., RF), Makayla Caban (Jr.,C), Victoria Harmon (Jr., 1B/OF), Corrine Rega (Jr., P/2B), Erin Jamison (Jr., OF), Riley Molina (Jr., 2B/OF), Alexa Monaco (So., OF), Isabella Serronico (So., P/2B), Kaylee Rodriguez (Jr., 3B/C), Jaydie Ramos (So., 1B/OF), Jordan Sekerak (So., OF/SS), Sophia Eguiguren (Fr., 2B).
Outlook: Junior varsity coach Melissa Gustray takes over the program just in time for its ascension from the Gold Division, which it swept the past two seasons. Aralyn Torres, the primary force behind the Tigers recent success, with 357 strikeouts in 237 2/3 innings over those two last campaigns, won’t be around for the upgrade she necessitated. Gustray wants her team to be aggressive on the basepaths and junior leadoff batter Makayla Caban stole 47 bases last year and has batted .553 with an .871 slugging percentage over her two varsity campaigns behind the plate. Senior shortstop Addison Calabrese has taken on a leadership role in the infield with classmates Melanie Jimenez and Sarah Sanchez doing the same in the outfield. Sophomore Isabella Serronico (.369) and junior Corrine Rega will try to fill the gaping hole in the circle.
EDISON
Coach: Marylynn Muldowney, fifth season
Last season: 7-14
Top letterwinners lost: Ava Austin (P/SS), Mei Kim (UT), Isabella Trobliger (OF).
Roster: Cassandra Della Fave (Sr., Inf.), Kaylin Kline (Sr., C), Lindsay Yascko (Sr., OF), Kelly Roe (Sr., UT), Juriann Nolasco (Sr., UT), Olivia Shourt (Jr., 1B), Nalini Parekh (So., P/Inf.), Jenna Fugate (Fr., P/1B/UT), Callie DiBisceglie (Fr., 1B, P, UT), Kailyn Hawkins (Fr., SS/UT), Lorien Elgebrawi (Sr., UT).
Outlook: A trio of graduates have departed, most notably Ava Austin, who led the team in batting (.484) and slugging (.726), while handling nearly all of the pitching responsibilities. Replacing those contributions will be critical, especially in the circle, where freshmen Jenna Fugate and Callie DiBisceglie are expected to take over. Catcher Kaylin Kline (.351) and infielder Cassandra Della Fave (.339), both seniors, are the top returning hitters among a solid core of veterans. Coach Muldowney likes her team’s versatility, as evidenced by the six utility players listed on the roster.
JF KENNEDY
Coach: Maureen Gallagher, 17th season
Last season: 7-16
Top letterwinners lost: Marialys Ricourt (C), Kristinka Kuzar (OF).
Roster: Lorelei Lorentzen (Sr., SS/CF), Mia Montanez (Sr., 1B/OF), Courtney Paulikas (Jr., P), Roselyn Giordano (Jr., 2B), Madelyn Spearnock (Jr., 3B/OF), Aryanna Dlugosz (Sr., DP), Kylie Ondeyko (So., C), Isabella Aquino (So., OF), Layla Smith (Sr., OF), Leah Polanco (Jr., OF), Katlyn Brito (Sr., OF), Kelsey Felciano (Jr., UT), Kylie Dlugosz (Jr., UT).
Outlook: Maureen Gallagher, who begins her 17th season at the Mustangs helm, ranks Lorelei Lorentzen (.492 batting, .814 slugging) among the top 3 players during her reign. JFK will be missing a big bat in the middle of the lineup in Marialys Ricourt (.433) from a team that posted nearly half of its victories in storming to the GMC Invitational finals. Courtney Paulikas, who hurled all but 1 2/3 innings last year, returns, but needs to cut down on her walks. Mia Montanez (.371) returns at first base and sophomore Kylie Ondeyko moves behind the plate for a squad that should be more competitive here after dropping from the White Division.
MIDDLESEX
Coach: Chris Chismar, ninth season
Last season: 14-10
Top letterwinners lost: Peyton Chie (P/Inf.), McKenna Healey (C), Jaclyn DeShields (Inf./OF), Jamie Gorel (Inf.), Emily Godfrey (OF), Alexis Rand (OF), Sara Nazha (Sr., OF).
Roster: Mackenzie Hughes (Fr., OF/Inf.), Bella Durkin (Fr., OF/1B) Ciara Canty (So., OF/IF), Emilia Sneddon (So. Inf.), Mikayla Chomen (So., C/Inf.), Kylie Vitelli (So., P), Gianna Zaliwski (So., 3B/C), Gianna Fusco (So., SS), Isabella Nowakowski (Sr., Inf.), Gianna Forgione (Sr., OF), Amber Demeter (Sr., CF), Julianna Rosati (Sr., 1B).
Outlook: The Blue Jays collected 227 hits last year and 182 of those departed from a sectional finalist that graduated seven starters. The two that return, seniors Amber Demeter (11 RBIs) and Julianna Rosati (.369, 25 RBIs), have been tasked with leading the youthful squad through its rebuild. Sophomore Kylie Vitelli tossed 22 innings last year and will replace three-year starting pitcher Peyton Chie. Sophomores Gianna Zaliwski and Gianna Fusco will join the two seniors in the heart of the batting order and look to contribute right away.
PERTH AMBOY
Coach: Patty Bennett, eighth season
Last season: 13-12
Top letterwinners lost: Brianna Estevez (OF), Samarah Kirkland (3B, OF).
Roster: Angelina Belliard (Sr., OF/2B), Edith Luciano (Sr., C/Inf.), Gabriella Reyes (Jr., OF/Inf.), Izabella Pardo (Jr., P/SS), Jaidy Rodriguez (Sr., 2B), Johanny Almonte (Sr., 1B/RF), Kiarelys Santiago Soto (Sr., 3B/SS/CF), Liz Cabrera (Jr., 1B), Mia Santos (So., Inf./OF/P), Nicole Cepeda (Jr., P/1B), Amaya Rivera (So., P/OF), Izabella Pena (Fr. C/OF), Jaslyn Collado (Fr., P/Inf.), Ana Mosquea (So., C/OF).
Outlook: The Panthers should get a lift from winning the GMC Invitational title last spring, but will have to do so without All-Area outfielder Briana Estevez, who posted 47 hits, 34 RBIs, and eight home runs, while batting .691 and slugging 1.456. Estevez became the first Panther to sign with a Division 1 program when she accepted an offer from Manhattan. Junior Izabella Pardo (.442), who has committed to Albany, will be the second. Speedy Kiralyse Santiago (16 SB) is slated to lead off followed by Pardo, Edith Luciano (.355, 3 HR), and Gabriella Reyes (.414). Promising freshman Jaslyn Collado will head a deep staff that includes sophomore Mia Santos and veterans Amaya Rivera, Nicole Cepeda and Pardo.
PISCATAWAY
Coach: Amanda McLean, second season
Last season: 2-14
Top letterwinners lost: Jayla McNeil (SS), May Roberson (LF), Madison Matakevich (3B).
Roster: Julianna Mena (Fr., SS), Melody Mendoza (Sr., RF), Marissa Mikita (Jr., P/1B), Linda Nyugen (So., UT), Kylie Passman (Jr., UT), Imane Pasteur (Sr., 3B), Jenna Phelan (Sr., LF), Jalina Raro (Jr., UT), Mia Salgado (So., 2B), Shanya Saunders (Sr., RF), Samantha Venturi (So., P/1B), Natalia Young (Fr., CF), Alisha Dhillon (Sr., C).
Outlook: The Chiefs scored 45 runs in their two victories last season and a total of 56 in their 14 defeats, so consistency will be a priority. Sophomore Samantha Venturi has improved from a freshman campaign in which she batted .535, and will assume greater responsibilities in the circle behind ace Marissa Mikita, who will also lead off. The three departed seniors delivered 56 of the team’s 130 hits last year, so someone will have to make up the slack. Catcher Alisha Dhillon (.341) and outfielder Jenna Phelan join Mikita as captains with talented freshman Julianna Mena taking over at shortstop.
Gold Division
HIGHLAND PARK
Coach: Lori Szentgyorgi, 21st season
Last season: 17-6
Top letterwinners lost: Alexis Valenta (3B), Michelle Edralin (P), Flor Quesada (LF), Fran Connelly (RF).
Roster: Vanessa Kohler (Sr., SS), Melissa Evans (Jr. C), Cora Kaper-Dale (Jr., OF/P), Ava Kohler (Jr., 1B), Diana Richardson (So., 2B), Jaylannie Roche (So., 3B), Desiree Caballo (Jr., OF), Lily Bullock (Fr., OF), Sophia Monge (So., OF), Mia De Lorenzo (Fr., OF/3B), Lily Bullock (Fr., OF), Lex Kohler (Fr., OF), Natalie Guard (Fr., 2B), Serenity Collazo (Fr., 1B), Leila Ross (Fr., OF), Akshara Goyal (Fr., OF).
Outlook: The Owls, who finished second in the Gold last year, graduated five starters, but loom as a contender once again, especially with champion East Brunswick Magnet elevated to the Blue Division. Captains Vanessa Kohler (.431, 26 RBI) and Melissa Evans (.395, 41 RBIs) have already assumed a leadership role and join Ava Kohler (.375) and Cora Kaper-Dale in spearheading the offense. Kaper-Dale logged 15 innings in the circle last year and has been tasked with replacing ace Michelle Edralin, with Ava Kohler backing her up. Veterans Diana Richardson and Jaylannie Roche complete the infield. Vanessa Kohler is the lone senior on a roster that also boasts eight freshmen, most notably versatile Mia De Lorenzo and outfielder Lily Bullock.
MOTHER SETON
Coach: Tom Moran, 25th season
Last season: 15-3
Top letterwinners lost: Makayla Martinez (P), Lucy Giglio (C) Rachael Eicholz (2B).
Roster: Isabelle Lopes (Jr., OF), Jessica DeBarros (Sr., OF), Katelynn Moses (Sr., 3B/P), Sasha Smyth (Sr. 1B/C), Megan Cunha (Sr., SS), Jordan Harris (Jr., C/OF), Victoria Cunha (Sr. OF/P, Kayleigh Roach (So., 2B/OF), Eve Forenza (So., OF), Anna Maliakal (Sr., OF/Inf.), Emily Abreu (Fr., Inf./OF), Amber Keane (Fr. P/2B), Caroline Miskoff (Fr., OF/C), Alyssa Orlowski (Fr., OF), Annaleah Ramirez (Fr.,1B), Samantha Salazar (Sr., OF).
Outlook: The Setters move up to the Gold Division after running the table in each of the last three campaigns in the Silver. Unfortunately, the primary factor in that success, Makayla Martinez, who batted .547, slugged 1.132 and amassed 104 hits, 96 RBIs and 16 home runs over her career, graduated Martinez was also the team’s lead pitcher with Katelynn Moses the only veteran in the circle. Victoria Cunha and Amber Keane will share time there, as well. Moses (.560) will lead off for a club missing 116 hits from last year. Two more returning starters with potent bats, sophomore Eve Forenza (.452) and senior Anna Maliakal (.508), begin the season sidelined with injuries.
SOUTH AMBOY
Coach: Lindsay Yeomans, sixth season
Last season: 6-12
Top letterwinners lost: Alexandra Kross (2B/OF), Sara Ivan (OF).
Roster: Emma Kalantsis (Sr., C), Sarah McLaughlin (Sr., SS/P), Mia Pina (Sr., OF), Michaela Sturk (Sr., OF), Gabriellis Pena (Jr., OF), Anaiah Wilson (Jr., OF), Jasmine Ayoso (Jr., OF), Gwen Kalantsis (So., 1B), Janeece Berry (So., 2B), Sophie Hernandez (So., P/SS), Leangeliz Deleon (Fr., 3B), Jaela Russel (Fr., OF), Jaylah DeJesus (Fr., OF), Brittany Bixby (Fr., OF), Mykaela Ferrer (Fr., UT).
Outlook: Only two seniors departed so there’s a ton of experience returning. Best of the bunch is senior catcher Emma Kalantsis (.429 batting, .786 slugging), who is slated to bat third and share the captaincy with Sarah McLaughlin (.390, 11 stolen bases), who will lead off. Gwen Kalantsis, who batted .417 with 26 RBIs as a freshman, will fill the cleanup spot. Sophomore Sophie Hernandez (.400), who shared the circle with McLaughlin last year, is expected to do the majority of the work in the circle this season There are five freshmen on the roster with third baseman Leangeliz Deleon and outfielder Jaela Russel leading that group.
SOUTH RIVER
Coach: Nicky Cacoilo Curran, third season
Last season: 8-13
Top letterwinners lost: Amiya Osborne (OF), Paige Evans (P/OF).
Roster: Leigha Borusovic (Sr., 3B), Aniya Johnson (Sr., P), Veronica McKim (Jr., 2B), Gabrielle Castelhano (So., SS), Reese Rega (Fr., C/SS), Avery Lane (So., 1B), Gabrielle Da Silva (Jr., OF), Nyashia Nieves Mendez (Sr., OF), Katelyn Corticiero (Sr., OF), Abby Helstowski (So., OF), Ashley Borusovic (Jr., 1B), Laurie Ferrari (Fr., OF/2B), Karina Santos (So., C).
Outlook: The Rams retain their two best hitters in clean-up Leigha Borusovic (.510 batting, .804 slugging) and lead-off Veronica McKim (.433), with Aniya Johnson (.361) rejoining them at the top of the order. 2024 saw a host of talented freshmen emerge in the GMC and Reese Rega is one of the bright stars in the class of 2028 and is expected to be productive on the field and a leader off it. Sophomore Gabriella Castelhano is the only other player with considerable varsity experience. The biggest question mark is in the circle, where Johnson is the only holdover with just 13 1/3 innings under her belt. How much she has improved and finding depth on the staff will be crucial to the team’s success.
TIMOTHY CHRISTIAN
Coach: Nick Badillo
Last season: 3-13
Top letterwinners lost: Linsey Trejo (OF), Jazmeen Coral (OF).
Roster: Nevaeh Brown-Livingston (Sr., Inf.), Athanasia Kambitsis (Sr., OF), Lacey King (Jr., OF), Leah McNulty (Jr., C), Holly Medina (Sr., Inf.), Rebecca Saleh (Jr., OF), Ezra Santiago (So.), Kara Spivey (Jr., P/Inf.), Krystal Thai (So., OF).
Outlook: The Tigers crammed all three victories last spring into a four-game stretch in early May and would like to reach the win column a little earlier this spring. With minimal losses to graduation this is a veteran squad that should be more competitive this year. Top returning hitters include Holly Medina (.545), Kara Spivey (.385), Leah McNulty (.355) and Anya Wildgoose (.321, 2 HR). Spivey delivered most of the Piscataway school’s pitches in 2024.
WARDLAW-HARTRIDGE
Coach: John Childs, sixth season
Last season: 15-4
Top letterwinners lost: Sarah Alves (P/OF), Devin Coleman (OF), Sydney Geissler (1B), Kayla Martel (OF/Inf.), Natalie Koegler (Inf./OF).
Roster: Nijiany Genao (Jr., Inf./OF), Jessica Grimes (Sr., OF),
Aadya Jha (So., Inf./OF), Mohisha Jha (Jr., Inf./P/C), Sukhmeen Kaur (So., OF), Coco Lee (So., Inf./OF/P), Talia Levy (Fr., Inf.), Liany Maldonado (Jr., OF), Kacey Marmolejos (Sr., Inf./OF/P), Deanna Nicholls (So., Inf./OF), Emily O’Neill (So., Inf.), Elyssa Ortega (Jr., Inf./P), Giovana Raefel (So., Inf./OF), Sophia Riccio (Jr., P/Inf.), Giannalise Rodriguez (Jr., Inf./OF/C), Giselle Rodriguez (Sr., C), Isabella Sarro (Fr., Inf.).
Outlook: The Rams face a double-whammy this spring, losing five seniors while moving up a division due to their success last year. Best of that bunch is Sarah Alves, who batted .520 over her four-year career while fanning 510 in 257 innings. Junior Sophia Riccio, who handling most of the pitching last year and struck out 127 in 67 2/3 innings while ,batting .488 with four home runs, returns. Juniors Giselle Rodriguez (.489) and Alyssa Ortega (.409) are expected to join Riccio in spear-heading the attack. Freshman Isabella Sarro is the top newcomer and is also being counted on to provide some firepower to the offense.
WOODBRIDGE ACADEMY
Coach: Scott Modzelewski, fifth season
Last season: 9-8
Top letterwinners lost: Shruthi Saravanan (OF), Jotleen Nijjar (1B), Sochi Isloor (Inf./OF).
Roster: Zoha Shaikh (So., P), Eva Patel (Jr., 1B), Nina Nippani (Jr., Inf.), Kiah Parekh (Sr., SS), Dia Jayadas (Sr., CF), Dhanashri Balamurugan (Sr., C), Samhitha Kalakada (Jr., OF), Aditya Santhosh Kumar (Jr., OF), Emily Santos (Sr., Inf.), Mrunal Patel (So., UT), Emily Hannon (Fr., 3B), Nicole Chang (Sr., 2B), Shruthi Anand (Fr., Inf.), Akashi Sharma (So., OF).
Outlook: Coach Scott Modzelewski hopes to contend for the divisional title behind a veteran squad with a sophomore ace in the circle. Zoha Shaikh hurled all but three innings for the Hornets last year as a freshman and her 158 strikeouts in 93 1/3 innings rank third among returning hurlers in the conference. Leadoff hitter Kiah Parekh returns for a fourth season with a career .456 batting average after hitting .519 as a junior. Junior Eva Patel also batted .500 last year, while Shaikh swatted both of the team’s home runs. Woodbridge Academy is once again looking for this year’s top freshman, third baseman Emily Hannon, to contribute right away.
SILVER DIVISION
CALVARY CHRISTIAN
Coach: Carol Comins, 15th season
Last season: 3-11
Top letterwinners lost: Emilie Conger (OF), Eileen Fogerty (OF), Kristanna Rodriguez (3B), Ila Rowati (P), Ashley Stroffolino (OF).
Roster: Makayleigh Fernandes (So., C/2B), Ruby Lynch (So., Inf./P), Emily Jaremba (So., OF), Katelyn Lamb (So., OF/DP), Rachel Schafer (Sr., 1B), Gianna Maltese (So., OF), Alaina Paulson (Sr., Inf.), Lexi O’Toole (Jr.), Sophia Magee (Sr.).
Outlook: The Old Bridge school scored 21 runs in a season-opening loss to New Brunswick last year and followed that outburst with a 32-run uprising in a four-inning win over Piscataway Magnet, but only managed a total of seven runs in its two post-season setbacks. Finding a replacement for Ila Rowati, who batted .659 and pitched all but one inning last season, is imperative. Sophomore Ruby Lynch hurled the rogue frame that Rowati sat out, with senior Rachel Schafer (.419) and sophomore Makayleigh Fernandes (.350) the top returning hitters.
DUNELLEN
Coach: Kerry Johnson, fourth season
Last season: 9-12
Top letterwinners lost: Alyssa Vargas (LF), Ty’Asia Dorsey (1B), Angelina Tufaro (RF), Sophia Facciponti-Mennella (2B).
Roster: Anadalay Buitrago Fitzgerald (Sr., OF), Savanna Burkeen (So., P/1B), Alexa DeVesa (Jr., CF), Rose Ciccolella (So., 3B), Chloe Downing (Jr., OF), Kyla Fucito (So., SS), Sienna Fucito (Fr., 2B), Kaitylee Garcia (So. P/2B), Kasey Manna (Fr., OF), Katherine Martinez Vidal (Fr., OF), Alyssa Segura (So., OF), Mikayla Sheehan (Fr., OF), Kyleigh Tigue (So., OF/1B/C), Maria Torres (Fr., OF), Gaelle Velez (So., C/OF).
Outlook: The Destroyers will be one of the GMC’s youngest teams with one senior, two juniors, seven sophomores and five freshmen on the roster. Coach Kerry Johnson is looking to a trio of veterans in junior Alexa DeVesa and sophomores Rose Ciccolella and Gaelle Velez, who each hit .356 or better, to lead the youthful squad. Ciccolella was one of the top freshmen in the entire conference a year ago, batting .591 and slugging .758 with 24 stolen bases. Sophomores Savanna Burkeen and Kaity Garcia, who tossed every pitch for Dunellen last season, return in the circle. This team might struggle early due to its youth but the program is trending upwards for the next two or three years.
NEW BRUNSWICK
Coach: Eddie Rodriguez, third season
Last season: 5-11
Top letterwinners lost: Jamely Rodriguez (P/OF), Kelsey De Leon (Inf./OF).
Roster: Ava Arent (Fr.), Katherine Baez (Jr.), Nina Del Toro (Sr., OF), Ashley Garcia (Sr., OF), Libni Ester Gijon (Sr., Inf.), Eirene Olam (Jr., P), Diana Martinez (Sr., Inf./OF), Katie Mendoza Diaz (Jr.), Crystal Mercado (Jr., Inf./OF), Yarisa Perez-Santana (So.), Andrea Reyes Oliveira (Sr., Inf.), Angeline Rivera (Sr., P/OF), Alaissa Rosario (Sr., Inf./OF), Danny Sanchez (Jr.), Yasmeli Thomas (Jr,. Inf.).
Outlook: The Zebras have a nucleus of seven seniors returning from a squad that scored 10 or more runs in 10 of its 16 outings a year ago. Seniors Nina Del Toro (.447), Ashley Garcia (.500) and Libni Ester Gijon (.484) and junior Eirene Olam (.481) should once again stoke the attack. Angeline Rivera is the only experienced pitcher with Olam backing her up in the circle. Ava Arent, the lone freshman on the roster, is the top newcomer and is expected to contribute as well.
NORTH PLAINFIELD
Coach: Drew Bandola, first season
Last season: 3-17
Top letterwinner lost: Sarah Zaher (SS).
Roster: Laquisha Tjokronolo (Jr., P/OF), Jasani Vizcaino (Sr., 2B), Samantha Colon (Sr., 3B), Briyith Castro (Fr., P/Inf.), Maya Mohammad (Sr., OF), Jada Pinzon (Sr., DP/OF), Jordyn Barcelo (Jr., OF/P), Chloe Rodriguez (Jr., C), Destiny McNair (Sr., 1B/OF), Alyson Barbosa (Jr., OF/P), Taylor Mooney (Sr., OF), Sofia Capodiferro (Sr., SS), Jordan Phillips (Sr., OF), Arianne Brown (Jr., Inf.).
Outlook: The Canucks spent their first two GMC campaigns wallowing in the White Division without a win, and drop three levels this season to more appropriate competition in the Silver Division. First-time head coach Drew Bandola, who spent five years coaching in the Metuchen program, takes over and intends to contend for the division title. Jordan Phillips and newcomer Chloe Rodriguez are expected to lead the attack. Juniors Alyson Barbosa and Laquisha Tjokronolo provide experience in the circle with freshman Briyith Castro filling out the staff for a club that yielded double-digit runs in 19 of 20 outings a year ago. Seniors Jasani Vizcaino (.375) and Samantha Colon are co-captains on a squad that should increase its win total as much as any school in the conference.
PERTH AMBOY MAGNET
Coach: Tyesha Price, second season
Last season: 0-16
Top letterwinners lost: Arlette Batista (C), Alizaiya Irizarry (P/OF), Tamairy Nunez (OF), Kiara Tapia (3B/SS), Alyssa Vasquez (2B/P).
Roster: Mextli Lomeli-Roman (Jr., OF/SS), Cyrae Brooks (Jr., P/OF), Chrisleydi Sanchez (Jr., OF), Steici Cruz (Sr., 1B), Ashley Liriano (Jr., DH), Aaliyah Castro (Jr., 3B/SS), Ashley Marmolejos (Jr., OF), Daniella Fatola (So.), Esmeralda Gutierrez (So.), Evangely Ramirez (Jr., OF), Patricia Taveras (Sr.).
Outlook: The Patriots endured a winless season last year and 15 of those defeats were by 10 or more runs. To make matters worse, they lose their best player in catcher Arlette Batista (.703 batting, 1.000) and their primary pitcher in Alizaiya Irizarry so they must replace the battery, no easy task. There’s plenty of experience returning, but none of the veterans batted higher than .250. There’s a golden opportunity for one or more of them to step up.
PISCATAWAY MAGNET
Coach: Tom Incognito, second season
Last season: 5-13
Top letterwinner lost: Gianna Petrillo (C).
Roster: Aaliya Lewis (So., SS/OF), Makayla Wise (Sr., P), Coral Aurich (Jr., 1B), Brooke Bellardino (Fr., 2B), Tabitha Everitt (Fr., 3B), Jaslene McLeod (Jr., OF), Caylin Gulick (Sr., P/OF), Kaitlin Nguyen (So., C), Kim De La O Anaya (So., OF), Shania Cuthbertson (Jr., OF), Maddison Honeyghan (So., OF), Mya Batts (So., OF), Anyla Murrell (Jr., 1B/OF).
Outlook: Only one player graduated although catchers can be difficult to replace, especially at this level. Makayla Wise threw the majority of the team’s innings last year and will be counted on to do so again with occasional assistance from Caylin Gulick. Wise batted .592 with 29 hits in 2024 and will assume a position in the middle of the batting order along with Aaliyah Lewis, who hit .510 and slugged .755 with 25 hits as a freshman last season. Freshmen Brooke Bellardino and Tabitha Everett could step in right away in the infield.
SOMERSET TECH
Coach: Jack O’Neill, 13th season
Last season: 4-13
Top letter winners lost: Sabrina Abella (1B), Samantha Killimet (P/OF), Samantha Hanlon (P/2B), Tia Austin (OF), Melissa McEnroe (SS).
Roster: Maria O’Farrell (Jr., C/OF), Alyssa Schuster (Sr., !B/3B/P), Delilah Bergman (Jr., 3B/1B), Drew Mascaro (So., 2B, C, SS), Sophie Konkle (So., P/1B), Meghan Hanlon (Jr., OF), Kayla St. Rose (Sr., OF), Nina Ricci (Fr., SS), Julia Del Rocco (Fr., LF), Ava Del Rocco (Fr., RF), Sophia Del Rocco (Sr., 2B), Gabriella Rosario (Fr., CF/1B), Taylor Robertson (So., OF/2B), Gabby Alabi (So., OF).
Outlook: The Jaguars lost a lot to graduation, but expect to improve with an infusion of talented newcomers. Captains Maria O’Farrell (.352) and Alyssa Schuster have been tasked with leading their younger teammates. One of the newcomers, sophomore Sophie Konkle, will take on much of the pitching load with occasional relief from Schuster. Delilah Bergman, who batted .510 with a team-leading 22 RBIs in 17 games last season, fills the clean-up spot with freshmen Julia Del Rocco, Nina Ricci and Gabriella Rosario all expected to deliver at the plate.
UNION COUNTY CONFERENCE
LINDEN
Coach: Peter Naumowicz, first season
Last season: 9-9
Top letterwinners lost: Molly McDonald (P), Erica Hernandez (C), Kathleen Del Carmen (OF).
Roster: Clarymel Pichardo (SS/3B), Trinity Ellis (3B/P/LF), Amiyah Freeman (Sr., CF), Kiara Jorge (Jr., 2B/SS/3B), Carla Louisfort (Sr., P/OF/1B), Anaise Matos (Jr., 2B/LF), Alexa Pereira (Jr., C/3B), Guneet Sandhu (Sr., P/RF), Jaqueline Torres (Sr., C/OF), Samantha Torres (Sr., IB/3B), Le’Ziya James-Coney (Sr., OF), Emily Krypel (So., 2B/LF), Angelina Montanez (So., 2B/LF/RF), Olivia Alvarado (So., OF/2B).
Outlook: Peter Naumowicz, who served as head coach at Orange HS for 11 years, takes over the Tigers program and expects to contend for a division title right away. Linden graduated three starters, but each was a big contributor in Erica Hernandez (.396), Kathleen Del Carmen (.533) and Molly McDonald (.429), who tossed every pitch over the past two seasons and struck out 636 batters in 381 innings over her career. Sophomore infielders Alexa Pereira (.451) and Kiara Jorge (.440) will be joined at the top of the order by Samantha Torres and Clarymel Pichardo. Seniors Carmela Lousifort, Gumneet Sandhu, Trinity Ellis and Pichardo will try to fill the gaping hole in the circle. Senior Amiyah Freeman, junior Anaise Matos and sophomores Angelina Montanez, Emily Krypel and Olivia Alvarado are the most promising newcomers.
RAHWAY
Coach: Sean Cawley, seventh season
Last season: 6-16
Top letterwinners lost: Jenna Maher (CF), Maria Amorim (3B).
Roster: Jaylynn Soto (Sr., P), Jaelen Perez (Sr., 2B), Danielle Maher (Jr., SS), Gloria Garay (Jr., OF), Hannah Gallagher (So., 1B), Amanda Lebers (So., 3B), Emily Garcia (So., 2B), Nayeli Rivera (Jr., OF), Larissa Laurie (Jr., OF), Gianna Giunta (Sr., 2B), Angel Fuentes (So., OF), Katie Thearle (Jr., Inf.), Isabella Munoz (So., 3B), Sariyah Deshommes (So., OF/C), Yasmin Garcia (Sr., 2B), Kylie Guzman (Sr., OF), Casey Lord (Sr., OF), Jalisha Rivera (Fr., OF), Paityn Torres (Fr., OF).
Outlook: There’s reason for optimism here with the return of seven starters and a friendlier divisional realignment within the Union County Conference. Junior Danielle Maher (.508) and sophomore Amanda Lebers (.415) – both the younger sisters of former Indians stars -- are expected to lead. Emily Garcia (.500) and Hannah Gallagher (.300) will join them at the top of the batting order. Jaylynn Soto, who shared the circle with Lebers last year, is expected to take on most of the pitching responsibilities this year.
This article originally appeared on MyCentralJersey.com: NJ Softball preview: A team-by-team look at the GMC and area UCC
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