Harper softball swings into action

After rain and snow canceled the season opener at Millikin University on March 5, the Harper College softball season is scheduled to begin Friday when the Hawks play at Ancilla College in Donaldson, Ind.

The Hawks will field a young but talented team.

“Every year is a rebuliding year,” said third-year Hawks coach Brenda James.

The Hawks will be looking to replace two key sophomores — Alyssa Collins (Prospect) and Becky Koeune (Palatine). Both were named to North Central Community College Conference first team in 2010. Collins, who hit over .400 to pace the Hawks, had earned all-conference honors as a freshman. #147;We will miss their leadership,#148; James said. The Hawks feature several reasons for hope this spring.Aly Poehlmann (Schaumburg), Samantha Bernstein (Crystal Lake South), Ashley Halls (Elk Grove) and Julie Waite (Conant) are four newcomers expected to make a contribution. Poehlmann was a four-year varsity player with the Saxons, where she twice earned Daily Herald All-Area honors. She and pitcher Julie Waite will comprise the Hawks#146; battery.#147;(Waite has) lots of speed,#148; James said. Waite, a switch hitter, will also play some shortstop and first base. Halls will play center field, while Samantha Bernstein will play shortstop, second base and fill in on the mound.#147;She#146;s going to be our home-run hitter,#148; said James, who was impressed with Bernstein#146;s power in the fall.The strength of this group might be on the basepaths and in the batter#146;s box. James believes the Hawks will develop some power as the season goes on. College of DuPage and Rock Valley look to be the favorites in the N4C this spring.#147;When you make it to nationals, you deserve to be the favorite,#148; James said of Rock Valley#146;s showing last season.