Youngsville’s softball team has its share of experienced players.

But if it wants to improve on its 2-15 record from a season ago, it is going to need some production from the younger players on its roster.

“With only five total students in grades 11 and 12, we really need some of the freshmen and sophomores to step up this year,” said Youngsville coach Neal Kent.

Those five students in the junior and senior classes do secure many key positions for the Eagles. Senior Kamden Swearingen returns as the starting pitcher in 2025 while senior Alyssa Gentz is back behind the plate doing the catching. Fellow senior Ireland Abraham will start the season at third base while the team’s fourth senior — newcomer Kennedy Allen — will “provide a big boost at first base and pitching,” according to Kent.

Youngsville’s only junior is Hailey Gray. Gray started in the outfield a year ago, but will make the move to shortstop for this season.

The majority of the Eagles’ roster is composed of first- and second-year players. Sophomore Marli Rectenwald will start in either the outfield or at second base and sophomore Caitlyn Pikna and freshman Peytynn Kirby will also be in the mix for starting spots in the outfield.

Battling it out for the final starting spot and key reserve roles are sophomores Paige Stover and Desirea Merritt as well as freshmen Alyssa Goss, Maci Benton, Haley Kent, Sophia Depasquale and Arianna Haight.

Kent said the Eagles have been taking a defensive approach to preparation for the upcoming season and he believes an improved defensive effort will allow Youngsville to stay close and compete in more games this season.

“I would love for us to play better defense this year,” said Kent. “We gave up some extra outs that hindered us quite a few times last year. If we can make the plays we should, I believe we should be able to compete in every game.”

Kent added that he knows that mistakes are inevitable as part of the game, but hopes his team’s attitude and work ethic will help them overcome any mistakes that do happen.

“We need to work hard and have a good attitude,” said Kent. “If we do make a mistake, we need to move on and not dwell on it. As a team, we need to realize mistakes will happen. What’s important is shaking them off and moving on to the next batter.”

The Eagles will play in Region 3 for their final season in school history alongside Eisenhower, Mercyhurst Prep, Iroquois, Seneca and Union City.

Youngsville is scheduled to open up play Tuesday when it travels to Union in Rimersburg.