Quick Lady Yellowjackets looking for a shot

The Clinton Lady Yellowjackets will be flying over the bases this year. Coach Joe Hudson said speed is the team’s strength. “Overall, it’s probably the fastest team I’ve ever had; we’ve got a lot of speed,” he said. Hudson, who has been leading the team since 2010, is cautiously optimistic about its chances this year. Last season, the team ended 14-13 and 5-8 against blended 3A/4A District opponents; 6-0 against 3A-1 East opponents. He has five returning starters: seniors Tori Bradford, pitcher, and Kaitlin Kirkendoll, first base; juniors Kiaura Balentine, catcher, and Emily Kirk, outfield; and sophomore Livie Dufrene, shortstop or second. Her sister, Daly, who graduated last year, also played shortstop. Daly Dufrene is now playing at Blue Mountain College in Blue Mountain, Mississippi, the coach said. Hudson said sophomore Natalie Alexander broke her collarbone in an accident unrelated to softball and is out for the season. He said the team’s best hitter for average is Kirkendoll, who bats “around .500,” and she’s also the best fielder. Despite many players with speed, asked for one name, the coach picked Livie Dufrene. Both Kirkendoll and Balentine are on track to play at the college level, he said. Right-hander Bradford is back on the mound, which is a plus. “We definitely have some experience,” Hudson said. “She does a good job.” Hudson, who is assisted by coach Jeremy Carson, said this year’s team is a group of hardworking young women. “They get after it,” he said. The coach is upbeat about the season, but there are question marks. “We’re kind of unproven. I’ve got 22 on the team, probably the most I’ve had in years,” he said. “I’m not really sure about some of them; a lot of girls are going to get their opportunity.” Hudson said he has respect for the tough teams in the combined 3A/4A Conference, but he has confidence in his players. “In the 3A-1 East, … I expect us to have a good shot at winning a title. That’s the hope; that’s the plan,” he said.