The Rector Cougars enjoyed a 23-6 season and a magical run to the 2A state semifinals a year ago. This year, Coach Robby Dorman is looking to fill some rolls left by five graduating seniors to make a similar postseason run. Seniors Hayden Vavak and Kolton Watson return to provide leadership for the Cougars. Vavak will likely bat leadoff and play third and center field after hitting. 330 last season. He could also see some innings on the mound showcasing his knuckleball. Watson is likely to handle catching duties this season and bat in the middle of the lineup. He could also add some depth to the bullpen. Junior Chance Lopez will be in the heart of the lineup after hitting. 380 last season and play on the left side of the infield. Lopez has improved his arm and could make some appearances on the mound. Sophomores Colton Haywood and Austin Avery will play big roles this season. Haywood hit. 400 last year and will be in the heart of the lineup while playing shortstop and pitching, while Avery should be in the field and hit in the middle of the order after hitting. 290 as a freshman. Freshman Keighyn Ritter will likely play in the outfield, and sophomore Ben Schimming will have a chance to start as well. Senior Koden Tucker returns to the roster after taking last year off and could be on the right side of the infield. Coach Dorman believes several guys will have to step up into big roles in a hurry in order for the Rector Cougars to get back to the state tournament, and NEA Sports predicts that the Cougars will compete in the 2A-3 for a chance to go to the regional tournament.
The Rector Lady Cougars earned a trip to the regional tournament finishing 9-8 on the season. This year, Coach David Hendrix is counting on a core group of returners and a young but talented group to battle through the 2A-3 conference and return to the postseason. There are some spots that the Lady Cougs will need some players to step up and fill.“ We are inexperienced at several positions,” Coach Hendrix said.“ We will probably have to move some people around. We hope to get better as it goes and throw a wrench in things at the end. We are used to winning, and we don’ t plan on taking a year off. We are going to work hard to win.” Anna Isom is back at shortstop, while Mille Murray also returns and will be asked to play multiple positions. Isabella Blount pitched some last season, but will be asked to increase her role and due a majority of the pitching. Sophomore Michaela Ward will be behind the plate as Blount’ s battery mate. Classmate Anniston Scott will land somewhere in the infield, while senior Libby Green will be in the infield and outfield depending on where she is needed. Freshman Kendall Brandon moves in and will be an infielder for Rector. Several other newcomers will battle it out for a spot on the field and in the lineup. The Rector Lady Cougars will be looking to gain experience as the season progresses. Look for the young Lady Cougars to be a factor in the district tournament when it rolls around at the end of the season.