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March 15, 2006 PRINCESS ANNE, MD - The UMES softball team finished the 2005 season with an 8-32 record and lost seven starters from last year's lineup, including Marlee Johnson, who was amongst the team's leaders in runs, hits and RBI's. But head coach Kirkland Hall does not expect a rebuilding season in 2006. In fact, he believes this year's team is better than its predecessor, and he expects these Lady Hawks to challenge for one of the berths in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Tournament, despite finishing fifth in the north region in 2005, one game behind fourth-place Morgan State. UMES returns seven players, including four starters, and have added four newcomers, all of whom are expected to make an immediate impact. In addition, two reserve players - senior Charlotte Ngondi and sophomore Candace Tyler - are back and have another year of experience under their belts. The 2006 Lady Hawks are versatile, with a number of players capable of playing multiple positions well. Senior Jenille Edwards, who hit a team high .327 last season, returns at first base for UMES and will also fill in at the six spot when needed. Junior Latoya Bailey started all but one game last season and returns to third base for the Lady Hawks. Bailey will also moonlight in the outfield and occasionally take turns with senior Heather Patnode behind the plate. First base will also be manned by Kendra Saunders, a freshman from Mississauga, Canada. Saunders' primary role, however, will be at shortstop. Christina Mason and Kristen Greenwood return to the circle for the maroon and gray. Mason amassed two wins last season and was second on the team with her 4.67 ERA. She also recorded 79 strikeouts. Mason will also see time in the outfield this season. Greenwood also posted two wins last season and struck out 46 batters. Greenwood will likely spend some time at the three spot this season.
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