CARIBOU, Maine — The Vikings’ varsity softball team features a new leader on the bench in the 2017 season.
After coaching the Fort Kent Warriors squad the past three seasons, Kayla Richards has taken over the helm of the Caribou squad. Richards, a former standout athlete at both Presque Isle High School and the University of Maine at Fort Kent, inherits a team from former coach Ryan Deprey that finished out of the playoffs last year with a 3-13 record.
The Vikes do come back with a fair number of experienced players. The senior class features Rachel Soucy, Madison Doucette and Katie Clark. Soucy is a four-year starter in the pitcher’s circle so she is ready for the challenge.
Doucette will start at shortstop and possesses great athleticism. She should be a top producer on both offense and defense.
Clark will play first base and is described by Richards as having a “high softball IQ.”
Returning juniors Kaytlin Waldemarson and Jaelynn Doody received a lot of playing time last year and again should be solid performers. Waldemarson will start at second base, while Doody will again be behind the plate in her starting catching role.
The sophomores on the team include Hollie McDougal, a versatile player who will fill a utility role on the squad, and Riley McNeal, who will see time in the outfield as well as first base.
A number of freshmen will also have an opportunity to contribute, and how much they play will relate directly to how well they adjust to the high school game. Heather DeMerchant will pitch some and play outfield and Alexis Parker will see a lot of time in the outfield. Both have worked hard in the early going and will be given a chance to prove themselves on the field. Classmates Alya Theriault and Abbi Robbins will also have a chance to contribute, primarily in the outfield.
Managers for the team are Searra Hebert, Taylor Skidgel and Victoria Leavitt.
Richards has high expectations for every member of Caribou’s roster.
“I expect all my players to work hard in games and even harder during practice,” she said. “One characteristic that I look for in all my players is a strong work ethic. Win or lose, every coach wants to have players who are willing to compete despite what the score is.
“No matter the outcome, our program will only be successful if we have the right attitude, are motivated and have determination.”
The Vikings, who dropped their first three contests, face a challenging schedule but Richards likes what she sees so far.
“I am excited about the opportunity to coach at Caribou High School,” she said. “I see a lot of potential in these girls, and I’m looking forward to watching them grow and maximize their talent.”
