The start of any sports season at North Atlanta brings excitement and anticipation of what’s to come in a long season. And judging by the positive results seen so far in the Warriors softball team, it looks like it could be a resounding turnaround season. 

On Aug 9, the Lady Warriors took to the field for their first game of the fall season against Centennial. Head Coach Ricky Plante led the Dubs to a 10 to 5 upset over the Knights. Plante is returning to a leadership role this year. After last year’s role as an assistant coach, he’s now the program’s head coach. He said he is ecstatic to help the team grow and contribute to future Dubs success in sports. “I’m looking forward to developing this program and taking it places it’s never been before,” he said, “It’s a good bunch of girls.”

Also new to the team this year is freshman Cece Smith, an ace pitcher and third baseman. She is eager to contribute to the team and excited to be playing high school softball. Smith’s first game went well, but she couldn’t help but notice several changes that stuck out to her. “For one, the competition grew — a lot. The pitching is also different and the defense is much stronger,” she said.

Leading Smith and her teammates this year is standout left fielder Daishalyn Satcher. The junior is a three-year veteran of the softball program. Knowing the considerable experience of Coach Plante and the talent of the team, she is pumped to see where the fall season takes her. Satcher’s thoughts on Game 1 were encouraging and positive. “It was an explosive start,” she said. “Our defense really worked together and our offense was consistent. It really produced points on the board.” 

Satcher is hopeful that the strong start will help propel them upward and onward- to the playoffs. The Dubs were not very successful last year, something that Satcher wishes to change this season. Given the competition decrease, surge of new talent, and the willingness of the players to contribute to the team, she definitely thinks it’s possible. Satcher also highlighted a major change that took place to make the playoffs a reality. “The biggest change was our team bonding and chemistry,” she said. “We have it on and off the field and I think that is a major component in our success thus far.” 

Dubs softball got off to a good start and while there have been some losses and wins after the season opener, optimism remains high. The question is whether they can climb in the rankings in their hyper-competitive region. With an ace pitcher, standout leader, and experienced coach, the Warriors’ chance for success is seemingly assured.  

But time — and the season — will tell whether this spirited group of girls can round third base and head for home.