Riverton aiming to triumph again on diamond

Just a few years ago, Riverton was the new kid on the softball diamond.

But after last year's region title, which they wrapped up by defeating former Region 3 powerhouse Bingham, the new kids are now the top dogs.

Riverton head softball coach Emily Cederholm knows that the Silverwolves' success has made them a favorite target, but said regardless of rankings, this year's Region 3 race will be tough on everybody.

"I think teams from our region are going to surprise people," she said. "You never want to count anyone else out. It will be a battle to the end, and this year it will be even tougher because only three teams from our region get to go to state. That will create more pressure and make each game a tougher fight."

Riverton is lucky in that it has a strong group of returning starters led by senior pitcher Jessie Cozzens, who had an ERA of 1.19 last season. Senior catcher Brooke Olson, who hit .453 last year, will be back in the lineup soon after recovering from an injury. Senior centerfielder Dani Grant and senior second baseman Kylie "Koo" Haimin will provide some of that key senior leadership this year. Others like pitcher Symbree Minniear and Sophia Gomez, catcher/designated hitter, offer the Silverwolves depth that not a lot of teams can boast.

Riverton has five seniors — Grant, Olson and Cozzens — who have committed to Salt Lake Community College. Chelsie Baldwin will play for Western Nebraska and Haimin is still deciding between two offers.

"That's pretty significant to have five seniors going on to play in college," said Cederholm.

Riverton has had some tests early in the preseason with tough games and a marathon tournament. The team played eight games in seven days and finished with a 7-2 record.

West Jordan was voted No. 2 with several returning starters, including pitcher Katie Kearns. The Jaguars have struggled in the preseason with a 2-5 record after two weeks.

Copper Hills was voted No. 3 in those preseason polls because it has a solid core of four returning starters. The Grizzlies have a new head coach in Shane Lucas, but he was an assistant in the program, so there won't be a lot of huge adjustments.

"We have a great young team with a lot of promise for this season and seasons to come," Lucas said. "We're looking forward to a fun and challenging year."

The Miners didn't go to the 5A state tournament for the first time in as long as anyone can remember. The Miners have new pitching and a new head coach — although she might be familiar to some old-timers.