Head coach Robert Cowan and the Lady Demons of Duncan are eager to get back on the field this season. Coach Cowan returns a solid nucleus from a team that won 20 games. “Duncan is a very strong team with three freshmen in key positions and four starting sophomores,” said Cowan. “We have three strong pitchers and a couple of senior returning starters.”
One of those seniors is standout KK Miller (P, SS, C, Sr.). Last season Miller carried a .442 batting average and recorded 260 strikeouts. She was selected as the Class 5A District 1 Player of the Year. She also added 30 stolen bases. Miller’s play will certainly help set the tone. Tina Alvarez (OF, SS, So.) is an underclassman who turned some heads as a freshman. Alvarez hit .438 and started 18 games at shortstop and 12 at first base. Her offensive production is impressive. Mikena Wilson (P, 1B, Fr.) is one of the exciting new freshmen to enter the lineup. She is a hard thrower, and she hits for power. Her addition to the lineup could be an x-factor for coach Cowan. Another freshman to watch is Finley Davis (SS, P, Fr.). Davis is a versatile player who hits for power and brings a great attitude to the dugout. Mac Cogburn (OF, Sr.) is a big part of the offense, hitting .387 last season while Hannah Harper (OF, Sr.) hit .241. Both should expect to see solid numbers as seniors. Gracie Goble (C, OF, Jr.) and Jaedyn Harvey (OF, Jr.) will see time in the outfield with Kailee Benton (OF, 3B, So.) who can also play third base. Hannah Woods (3B, So.) and Aubrie Davis (2B, So.) carry fielding percentages around .950. Other players to watch include Chesney Akers (1B, UT, Fr.) and Karley Alvarez (OF, 1B, P, Fr.).
Another 20-win season could be in the cards for the Lady Demons again this season. Chemistry is important, so if this team is able to find a rhythm and learn to play together, they could be dangerous and a team to watch when it’s time for post season play.