SOUTHMOORE SABERCATS

Coach: JASON LINGO

24-12

OUTLOOK

If it’s a fall semester in Oklahoma, you better expect the Southmoore Sabercats to be in the hunt for a fastpitch state title. The defending 6A fastpitch champions, who have won a combined eight fall and spring state titles since 2013, return a wealth of experience this year — and there’s no reason to believe they won’t be back in the mix this October. Kandace Burnett (1B, Jr.) returns for an anticipated junior campaign after her sophomore season ended with a ring and a 6A-2 All-District nod. “[Burnett] has started every game for the Sabercats since she stepped on campus,” Southmoore head coach Jason Lingo said. “The junior will be relied upon heavily to steer the Sabercats’ ship back to the state tournament. Her bat will be big in the lineup as she helps anchor the infield defense of the Sabercats at multiple positions. Kate Seaton (P/UTL, So.) is expected to fill an inflated role for Lingo’s squad this year. As her head coach put it, there aren’t enough Kate Seatons to go around. “She’s a good ballplayer who will help us in the circle and in the infield. She’s a great teammate and a leader as a young player for us,” Lingo said. “She is exemplary in the classroom, and you can’t find a better person to be a part of your team. I’d take 18 Kate Seatons.” Ryen Bullock (3B/UTL, So.) is a stellar young talent who looks to double down on her outstanding rookie year. “[Bullock] is a great ballplayer with a great eye at the plate and huge power,” Lingo said. “She started as a freshman for us and was our 5 or 6-hole all season long as we made a run to the state championship. Ryen had a massive state tournament last year and isn’t scared of the pressure.”