The Maiden softball team is ready and waiting the new season to start with a game against Alpine on Feb. 18.

“I’m excited for the season” senior Michelle Dyck said. “I’m ready to compete against good teams.”

For senior Maribel Mendoza the season will be welcomed with open arms.

“I’m excited to get to play,” Mendoza said. “I’ve been hurt, so I haven’t gotten to play that much in practice.”

The Maidens think their offense will be the key.

“Our offense is our strength,” junior Susan Reimer said. “Our hitting is really what can make a difference.”

Dyck said they will still need to improve on defense and communication as well.

“We are just going to have to work harder,” sophomore Melanie Sendejo said. “We can’t just settle.”

The Maidens finished 18-12 overall and are 6-4 in district last season, ending Cooper’s 31-game win streak during district play. Confidence in district play is key.

“We need to not psych ourselves out against teams like Cooper and Andrews,” Dyck said. “We need to go in knowing that we can win and play with a sense of urgency.”

The Maidens will be looking for  a deeper run in the playoffs after losing to Dalhart in bi-district last season.

The Maidens will scrimmage Lee, Coronado, Crane and Levelland tomorrow at 10:30 a.m. at the Maiden softball complex.