Last season, the Lancers went 26-28 (14-7 Big South). In the last seven games of the season, the team won five. While losing in the Big South Tournament, the team showed promise throughout the season.
Head Coach Megan Brown said that following the tournament loss, the team was left motivated for the next season. Over the off-season, the Lancers worked on improving multiple aspects of their game.
“They came back hungry; they came back ready. They’re really invested in each other and they really invested in their skills,” said Brown. “It’s been an exciting time.”
Moving into this season, the Lancers are 5-9 (0-0 Big South). So far, they have a season average of .222 batting records.
Two new additions have been brought to the team this season, Assistant Coaches Jo Koons and Jessica Dreswick. They both have experience with softball and intend to use their knowledge to help out the team.
Asst. Coach Koons arrived at Longwood following two seasons as a volunteer assistant with Oregon. During her time, she helped the team to a 40-win season and earn a #3 national ranking. She brings a wealth of knowledge regarding defensive play.
Asst. Coach Dreswick played under Brown during her final three years at Boston College. During that time, every season under Brown’s coaching she was named to the All-Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) and the National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) All-Regional teams. Following her collegiate play, she pitched for clubs in the Czech Republic, Italy, and South Australia.
“They both bring a lot of passion, a lot of energy to the program,” said Brown. “They’re both excited for what we’re doing.”
Infielder and Outfielder Emily Vinson has a season average .282 batting record, with 11 hits so far. She mentioned how each coach brings a unique outlook to the team.
“I think with all the three coaches being from different places, it really allows us to get like three different perspectives,” said Vinson.
She mentioned how there are some differences in playstyle between the East Coast and the West Coast. Vinson’s experience playing on the East Coast is that the players are usually larger and are sluggers. She elaborated on the West Coast, saying that the players are typically faster.
The Lancers’ next set of games will take place in Birmingham, Ala. The team will be playing in the Green and Gold Classic, starting on March 4 and concluding on March 6.
The first home game for the Lancers is set for March 22 against Virginia Tech at 4:00 pm.
