This was supposed to be the season that another Region 6 team challenged the Murray Spartans for top honors in softball.

But after a half-dozen region games, it looks like the same type of dominating season Murray's had for many years. The Spartans have beaten region opponents by double digits, except their last game against Cyprus, which they won 9-0.

The Spartans have one of 4A's best pitchers in Brittany Parker, a senior who has signed with the University of Utah. They also boast a very potent offensive line-up led by Jaclyn Cowley, Joclyn Clark, Koby Solorio and Shaylee Cannon.

The interesting thing is that Region 6 softball is much improved this season with some very talented athletes leading teams that have traditionally struggled in softball. Among those programs are Cyprus and Olympus.

"If we keep our composure and don't let our inexperience get to us, I think we'll be right there," said Pirates head coach Paul Lovato, who took over Cyprus' softball program after leaving Granite last year when the Farmers eliminated sports. "I don't think it's as strong a region as some I've been in, but it's challenging."

The Pirates are led by sophomore pitcher Brandi Lovato, Paul's daughter, senior Amy Broadbent, who catches and pitches, Shen Shay, third base and shortstop, and Brandy Baisch, catcher and shortstop.

"They're all very versatile," he said. "We're young and we're just building the program."

He said teaching the team to believe it can win any game has been the challenge.

"They're starting to believe they can win," he said. "We're trying to get to the playoffs, and I really think we can do it. I think we're just going to get stronger as the season goes along."

Olympus was voted No. 3 in that preseason poll and is showing the Titans are a program on the rise under second-year coach Michael Everett. OIympus is led by Josie Thammert, Alicia Maddocks, centerfield; Lexi Fugate, pitcher; and Brooke Evans, pitcher and right field.

"We're a very young team this year with great freshman talent with club experience coming in," said Everett. The team relies on senior leadership but also on five freshmen and two sophomores who make significant contributions. Other players who've helped the Titans to a 6-2 region record are pitcher Carly Duckworth and solid hitter Kelsie Webster.

The Titans' only losses are to Murray and Cyprus.

Highland is enjoying a much better season than some thought it might have. The Rams are 3-3 in region play with some rained-out games to play. They're led by pitcher Jenny Hardy and have a solid offense.

West High is always a solid performer in region play, and this year is no different. The Panthers are relying on solid athletes like Krystal Mascarenas and Courtney Andrews.