With eight varsity veterans in tow, the Airport softball team is looking to improve on last season’s 18-8 showing.
The Eagles dropped their season opener, 7-2, to White Knoll on Monday and host Lugoff-Elgin on Wednesday in another non-region outing. Airport begins Region 5-3A play on Tuesday at Swansea.
Senior third baseman Shanieka Staley (.412, 22 R, 18 RBI, 9 SB), senior pitcher-outfielder Chyna Riley (.368, 25 R, 2 HR), senior center fielder Savanna Platt (.286, 22 R, 8 SB), junior infielder Jessica Brown (.283, 19 RBI), junior middle infielder Celsea Rivers (.425, 17 R, 19 RBI, 9 SB, 1.038 OPS), junior infielder Taylor Rivers (.316), sophomore catcher-shortstop Taylor Payne (.400, 25 R, 21 RBI) and sophomore catcher-first baseman Kristan Lowery (.283) comprise the veteran foundation of the team.
All but Taylor Rivers have at least three years of varsity experience.
Airport expects to be a top contender for the region pennant. The Eagles were 9-3 in the region, finishing in third place behind Chapin (now in 4-3A) and Midland Valley.
