The North Surry Greyhounds varsity girls softball team is ready to play ball to win this season in a tough conference, according to Head Coach Willie Hodges.

The Lady Greyhounds finished fifth in the Northwest Conference last season. Hodges said they will have experience this year from returning senior starters.

Hodges said seniors Molly Martin will play shortstop, Hannah Goins will play third base, Casey Beamer will play catcher, Claire Montgomery will play outfield, Kayla Swift will play first base, Lakin East will play outfield; and senior Allison Woodbury will play first base.

Woodbury moved back to Mount Airy from California this year.

Hodges said, “We have a lot of experience, supported by good juniors.”

Juniors are Bailey Culler at second base, Marlee Bunker and Hayley Tickle at pitcher, and Kaitlin Hodges and Allison Hiatt will also return, said Hodges.

Sophomore Taylor Hill, who was moved up to play varsity this year, will play centerfield.

“She is that good,” said Hodges.

The coach said he is still in the determining process as to who will start for the Golden Eagles.

They scrimmaged against Alleghany on Friday but did not keep score. About the scrimmage, Hodges said, “I saw some good things.”

Due to the rainy weather the game on Tuesday against North Stokes was postponed.

Meanwhile, the team practiced inside the fieldhouse doing conditioning work and hitting in the batting cage.

Hodges said they are ready for the opportunity to play their first real ballgame.

The Golden Eagles next game is scheduled to be held at South Stokes at 4 p.m. on Friday.