Kearns shaping up as top threat for softball crown

Kearns softball coach Steve Drott knows that if the Cougars are going to do as well as most expect them to do this season, the team will need big contributions from players who've relied on the team's big stars.

Many of the Cougar players have come to rely on seniors Tara and Kara Bendt and players like Lisa Riches. But if they want to earn a Region 3 title, they need younger players to make a name for themselves this season.

"I've got to rely on some younger kids this year," Drott said. Kara Bendt has earned the respect of other 5A coaches by proving she's one of the state's best pitchers. Her twin, Tara, was anchoring the team's outfield in center field but has moved to second base when needed. Teammate Lisa Riches helps the Cougars emotionally and with her solid fielding and consistent hitting.

Drott knows the team has a lot of work ahead as they try to live up to expectations in one of the state's toughest regions. In a preseason poll of coaches, the Cougars were voted the top team, while Riverton earned the No. 2 ranking.

The Silverwolves have already defeated the Cougars in their first preseason meeting, but it was a close game.

"My kids know they have got to win these close games from now on," he said.

The Silverwolves have a young squad, but many of the players have a lot of softball experience. They have two pitchers in Jessie Cozzens and Symbree Minniear, and a solid team leader in senior Rose Swenson.

Coach Emily Cederholm has been at the helm for three years now and says the team is finally buying into the system she and her staff put into place when they took over Riverton's softball program. Before the team even played a game, they worked on team unity and having good chemistry in hopes that would give them an edge in a tight region race.

The team, like most others, has struggled with the weather and finding consistency despite less time outside than the players are used to by this point in the season.

"Playing in a gym is just different," said Cederholm.

Bingham was voted the No. 3 team in the region, but the Miners will surprise teams after losing both starting pitchers to graduation. Many of the team's best hitters return, led by senior catcher Katie McBride, the 5A MVP as a sophomore. The lineup also features consistently dangerous Alisha Sato, Dani Ibrahim and Skye Negrette. Ciena Smith has turned out to be a solid pitcher for the Miners this year.

The Miners lost to Copper Hills, the team voted No. 4 in Region 3, but they beat Kearns in the first region meeting between the two teams.